How Tyson Fury rose to fighting for undisputed status

At just 20 years old, Tyson Fury boldly declared his ambition to become a world champion. Now, 16 years later, he stands on the brink of accomplishing something unprecedented in the heavyweight division for a quarter of a century.

Set to face Oleksandr Usyk, the unified WBA, WBO, and IBF heavyweight champion, in Riyadh on May 18, Fury aims to become the first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999. Reflecting on his early aspirations, Fury reminisces about his unwavering belief in himself despite his limited professional experience.

“I always believed I’d be heavyweight champion,” Fury recalls, “I’m the best fighter in the world. First, you’ve got to believe, then you’ve got to achieve.”

With a professional record of 34-0-1, Fury’s journey to the top has been far from straightforward. Following his victory over Wladimir Klitschko to claim the unified championship, Fury endured a tumultuous period marked by legal disputes and personal struggles, resulting in a two and a half year hiatus from the ring.

However, since returning in May 2018, Fury has experienced a resurgence, attributing his growth as a fighter to both the triumphs and tribulations he’s encountered along the way.

“Nothing happens overnight,” he reflects, “Good things come to those who wait, nothing should be rushed, and take your time because you’ve only got one career and you’re only a young lad.”

Despite the challenges, Fury remains resolute in his conviction that he will emerge victorious on May 18, reaffirming his childhood dream of becoming an undisputed champion.

“From a little boy, I said that and achieved it,” Fury declares, “so I’ve got to be one of the rare few people who dreamed something as a child and achieved it as an adult.”

As he stands on the cusp of boxing history, Fury’s journey serves as a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and unwavering determination.