In what comes as a massive shock in the world boxing news, John Fury has hinted at one more delay of the first undisputed heavyweight title fight between Fury and Usyk, The Mirror understands. While the official version is that the event was delayed due to stadium problems in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Fury senior believes the Middle Eastern officials didn’t want to meet both his son’s financial expectations.
In a chat with Mirror Boxing, Fury senior shared his thoughts on Tyson’s chances against Usyk. Even though he labeled the Ukrainian a high-class athlete, he claimed his son will use the height advantage in the upcoming bout. Fury added the Gypsy King’s tactics during the fight would be attempting to take away Usyk’s legs.
“That’s what Tyson will do. He is a clever guy, and he does what will suit his opponent. It won’t be pretty to watch, but the Gypsy King will prevail. There’s no one out there who can beat Tyson, no one,” he said. Fury’s father went on to rule out the possibility of Usyk winning the fight and eventually becomingthe next world champions.” I just don’t see that. I don’t see it at all, I’m truthful and if I did I’d say it,” Fury added.
A similar opinion regarding Fury’s half-a-foot advantage was shared by Usyk’s superstar countryman, Vasyl Lomachenko. However, two-time Olympic gold medalist feels Usyk will as well stand a chance to win.
“It is going to be tough for both of them,” he Lomacheko, as quoted by sport.ua. “Obviously, I will root for the friend of mine, but I’m not sure what the bout will be like as they are really different, and Tyson is clever enough too. His size is, without a doubt, an advantage for him. It all depends on what strategy Usyk chooses and how well he will prepare. He must be very physically strong in this fight,” Lomachenko concluded.
Earlier in February, it was confirmed the fight between Fury and Usyk won’t take place in Saudi Arabia, where they would have earned the biggest purse in history. Per the Daily Mail, the Middle Eastern bidders weren’t able to confirm whether or not the new Jeddah stadium will be built in time. However, Fury senior believes the move was purely money-motivated.
“Greedy promoters don’t want to pay Tommy what he is worth, and it’s the same with Tyson. That’s why the delay is here. They want him for nothing. They want to make all the money, they want the lion’s share and give Tyson the small end,” he said. “But that ain’t going to work with us. We are not bowing down to anyone because we are the kings of the ring at the minute. Today, Tyson Fury is the king of the ring. We can’t say what’s going to happen with Tommy but we can say he’s going to give them all a run for their money.”
Recent developments suggest that the bout is targeted for London’s Wembley Stadium on April 29. As revealed by veteran promoted Bob Arum earlier this week, the parties are close to an agreement.
