Due to Tyson’s injury, the fight was postponed from February to May.
Terry Lane, manager of the WBO interim heavyweight title holder Zhang Zhilei, commented on the postponement of the fight between the world champion according to WBO/WBA/IBF/IBO Alexander Usik and WBC title holder Tyson Fury for the title of absolute world heavyweight champion.
“The postponement of the duel between the Ukrainian and the British disappointed me. But, unfortunately, this happens in our sport. I think Tyson should have time to fully recover by May 18. But he may have to approach sparring differently. I hope Usik and Fury will still get into the ring on May 18, because other heavyweight boxers can’t wait all the time.”
Fury and Usyk were scheduled to fight for the title of absolute world heavyweight champion on February 17. Lennox Lewis was appointed special guest of the event, and the undercard included fights between former IBF world champion in the first heavyweight division Jay Opetai, 19-year-old Moses Itauma and IBF world super featherweight champion Joe Cordina.
Two weeks before the fight, Fury was injured during sparring. The Briton’s injury required stitches, due to which Tyson will not have time to recover for the fight with Usyk.
Opinions among functionaries about Tyson’s injury were divided. British cutman Jorge Capetillo believes that the boxer will need at least three months to recover. His position is shared by the brother of former “interim” WBC champion Dillian Whyte, Dean White.
In turn, the Ukrainian team – Egis Klimas and Alexander Krasyuk – criticized Fury. The head of the promotion company Top Rank, Bob Arum, spoke in defense of the Gypsy King.
The unification fight for the title of absolute world heavyweight champion has received a new date – Fury and Usik are scheduled to meet in the ring on May 18. The event, as before, will be hosted by the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh.
Penalties for boxers who refuse to fight are $10 million. At the same time, the contract for the fight between the Ukrainian and the British has a rematch clause.
Source: Sportarena
I am Ashley Ortiz and I am a professional journalist working for Athletistic. My specialty is in sports journalism, particularly boxing. I have written articles for some of the most renowned publications on the subject, and my work has been featured across both print and digital media platforms.
