The ex-world champion is confident of the Ukrainian’s victory in the second fight with the “Gypsy King”
Legendary former boxer Bernard Hopkins believes that the holder of the WBC, IBO, WBA and WBO heavyweight belts Alexander Usik (22-0, 14 KOs) will defeat the former WBC world champion for the second time Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs).
“No, the second fight will not be different from the first. “I think the smaller guy is actually a guy with a big heart and a lot of talent… I think Usyk has his numbers and the fact that he’s not a big heavyweight helps him in this particular fight.”
“I think he has an IQ that Tyson Fury will not be able to maintain throughout the fight. I choose Usyk, possibly with a win in the later rounds. I think it won’t be a knockout, but just a merciful decision by the referee.”
Let us remember that on the night of May 18-19, Usik inflicted the first defeat in his professional career on Tyson Fury in a fight that took place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). The victory was awarded to the Ukrainian by a split decision: 115-112, 113-114 and 114-113.
An agreement has been concluded between Usik and Fury for a re-fight. The “Gypsy King” has officially activated the rematch option. The second fight between Alexander and Tyson will take place on December 21, 2024 in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia).
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman said he would seek the introduction of video replays in this fight. Oleksandr Usyk will prepare for the rematch in a training camp in Valencia. The Ukrainian said that he attracts scientists, psychologists to the training camp, and is constantly looking for suitable sparring partners. Tyson Fury said he will begin training six to seven weeks before the fight.
The first press conference and duel of the boxers’ views took place in London. Usik appeared in public to the song “Ave Maria” in the extravagant image of the hero of the computer game series Hitman. Fury came out to the song “Barbie Girl.” The event was hosted by legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer.
Source: Sportarena
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