Promoter Skeptical About Tyson Fury’s Commitment to Fight Oleksandr Usyk

With less than a month until the long-anticipated showdown between Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs) and Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) for the undisputed heavyweight world title, Usyk’s promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, remains wary about the fight’s certainty.

Krassyuk expressed doubt after witnessing Fury’s media event where he symbolically bid farewell to his WBC belt. “Usyk has no problem with his confidence,” Krassyuk remarked, emphasizing Usyk’s steadfast focus during training without distractions from social media or external pressures.

The fight, initially slated for December, faced multiple delays, first due to Fury’s bout with MMA fighter Francis Ngannou and later because of a sparring injury. Krassyuk highlighted Fury’s history of withdrawals, raising concerns about the fight’s occurrence.

Usyk’s rigorous preparation included three training camps spanning several months, with each delay posing logistical challenges. Krassyuk questioned Fury’s resolve, drawing parallels to Fury’s previous withdrawal against Wladimir Klitschko.

In anticipation of further uncertainties, a contingency plan involves financial compensation for Usyk if Fury fails to show. However, the opportunity to become a two-weight undisputed champion remains uncertain for Usyk.

To mitigate potential withdrawals, the “Lapin Rule” stipulates a significant fine for Fury should he back out again. Krassyuk speculated about the circumstances surrounding Fury’s sparring injury, hinting at skepticism despite lacking evidence.

Filip Hrgovic stands as a potential replacement should Fury withdraw, underscoring the stakes of the undisputed title. Despite concerns about Fury’s commitment, the fight is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Krassyuk addressed concerns about Saudi Arabia’s influence on the fight, affirming efforts to ensure fair officiating. He stressed Usyk’s resilience and determination, citing his underdog victory against Anthony Joshua.

Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in global sports, including boxing, adds another layer of complexity to the event. Krassyuk pointed out Turki Alalshikh’s praise for British fighters but noted the potential for a Ukrainian champion.

The clash between British and Ukrainian boxing cultures underscores the significance of the upcoming bout, as both nations vie for supremacy in the heavyweight division.