Boxing Experts Weigh In on Fury vs Usyk Fight: Predictions and Analysis
ICARO Media Group
In a highly anticipated showdown for the undisputed world heavyweight championship, Tyson Fury will face Oleksandr Usyk on Saturday night. This fight marks a significant moment for heavyweight boxing, as an undisputed champion in the division has not been crowned since 1999. With both fighters possessing crafty styles, experts have shared their predictions and analysis for this monumental bout.
Fury, known for his dynamic and relentless approach, aims to solidify his status as the best of his generation by claiming all the heavyweight titles. In an exclusive interview with Telegraph Sport, Fury revealed that his primary focus is on "getting paid," emphasizing his dedication to the sport.
Meanwhile, Usyk presents a formidable challenge, having successfully defended his IBF, WBA, and WBO titles in his previous fight against Daniel Dubois. Experts believe that Usyk's intelligence in the ring, combined with his ability to create angles and deliver precise shots, could be a deciding factor in the match.
Former middleweight world champion, George Groves, predicts that Usyk will avoid falling into the trap of being overpowered by Fury's size advantage. Groves highlights Usyk's ability to cut angles and land multiple punches before delivering a power shot. With an impeccable record since moving up to the heavyweight division, Usyk is seen by many as the favorite.
Tony Bellew, former cruiserweight world champion, believes that Usyk's smaller stature and background in the cruiserweight division have led to him being underestimated. Bellew argues that if Usyk were the same size as Fury, he wouldn't lose a round. The fight, therefore, becomes even more compelling due to this contrast in physical attributes.
Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua, who has never fought Fury himself, admits that Usyk excels in every aspect and, based on his knowledge, leans towards the Ukrainian boxer. Joshua's recognition of Usyk's abilities underscores the challenges Fury might face in their upcoming clash.
Experts also highlight Usyk's ability to counter Fury's advantageous size. Carl Froch, former super-middleweight world champion, emphasizes Usyk's capacity to withstand difficult rounds and then come back even stronger. Froch believes that Usyk's footwork, feints, and aggressive body language will prevent Fury from utilizing his weight to lean on his opponent.
David Haye, former two-weight world champion, acknowledges the technicality and adaptability of both fighters. Haye applauds Fury's resilience but suggests that the judges might be divided due to the mastery exhibited by Usyk.
Even Conor McGregor, former UFC champion, acknowledges Usyk's craftiness in the ring, but he recognizes Fury's toughness and size advantage as significant factors that make him a formidable opponent.
Lennox Lewis, the last unified heavyweight world champion, predicts an intriguing contest, describing it as a physical chess match. Lewis believes that Fury's ability to force his size on Usyk will ultimately lead to his victory.
Oscar de la Hoya, former three-weight world champion, sees Fury as a larger version of Usyk with comparable speed, power, and versatility. De la Hoya ultimately picks Fury as the winner.
Gareth A Davies, Telegraph boxing correspondent, suggests that Fury and Usyk's high skill levels may neutralize each other, possibly leading to a controversial draw. However, based on recent observations, Davies sways towards Fury winning on points or even securing a late stoppage.
With split opinions among experts, the fight between Fury and Usyk promises to be a thrilling encounter that could spark debates regardless of the outcome. Whether Fury's size and power can overpower Usyk's technical prowess or if Usyk's boxing IQ and agility will prove to be the deciding factor remains to be seen. Boxing fans eagerly await the clash on Saturday night, anticipating a memorable moment in the sport's history.