SKILL, FORM AND INTELLIGENCE – HOW USYK CAN BEAT FURY

Oleksandr Usyk is on the verge of another historic achievement in his boxing career as he prepares to face Tyson Fury in a unified heavyweight title fight on February 17, 2024. Despite conceding size, weight, and reach advantages to Fury, Usyk possesses a diverse skill set that could be instrumental in securing victory.

Usyk’s skillful and stylish approach to boxing, combined with his versatility in landing precise punches with both hands, exceptional speed, power, balance, and ring intelligence, positions him as a formidable opponent. His ability to formulate and adapt gameplans mid-fight adds another layer to his strategic prowess, crucial when facing a tricky and skillful opponent like Fury.

Learning from his past fights, such as the one against Tony Bellew in 2018, Usyk strategically downloads data in the early rounds, allowing him to identify openings and take control as the fight progresses. This measured approach highlights Usyk’s clarity of thought and could prove essential against an intelligent fighter like Fury.

Recent form plays a significant role in boxing, and Usyk enters the ring with confidence following a ninth-round stoppage win over Daniel Dubois and back-to-back victories against Anthony Joshua. The masterclass performance against Joshua showcased Usyk’s potential, contrasting with Fury’s recent split decision win over Francis Ngannou, a bout that raised eyebrows due to Fury’s less-than-convincing performance.

Fury’s recent bouts against Derek Chisora, Dillian Whyte, and the trilogy with Deontay Wilder revealed vulnerabilities, with reports of struggles in sparring during his training camp for the Usyk fight. Fury’s history of being sent to the canvas seven times, not only by power punchers like Wilder but also by less heralded opponents, adds another layer of concern.

Usyk’s recent form and strategic approach provide a solid foundation for his quest to claim the WBC strap in Saudi Arabia. If he can capitalize on Fury’s weaknesses and maintain his exceptional skill set, Usyk stands a strong chance of leaving the ring with another historic achievement in the heavyweight division.