As Tyson Fury prepares to step back into the ring against Oleksandr Usyk this Saturday night in Riyadh, the former world heavyweight champion is reflecting on the lessons learned from his dramatic split decision loss to the Ukrainian master boxer back in May. Despite suffering the first defeat of his professional career, Fury remains characteristically defiant.
“When I look in the mirror I don’t see a quitter,” Fury declares, his steely gaze unwavering. “I see a man who would do anything to keep going. If I get knocked down nine times, I’ll get up 10. That’s my job.”
A Classic Clash
The first encounter between Fury and Usyk was a modern heavyweight classic. The two skilled giants traded momentum throughout the bout, digging deep into their reserves of heart and determination. A remarkable ninth round nearly saw Usyk stop Fury, rocking the bigger man repeatedly. But the proud Gypsy King, a born fighter to his core, refused to wilt.
“I’d have to have no legs, no arms and half my head chopped off not to take the rematch. No eyeballs as well. I’d do it if I was blind.”
– Tyson Fury on his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk
While the financial incentives for running it back are obvious, with a lucrative rematch clause in place, Fury insists his motivation runs far deeper than mere prize money. This is about pride, legacy, and the very essence of who he is as a man and a fighter.
Tactical Adjustments
In reflecting on the first fight, which he has now watched “a hundred times,” Fury acknowledges the need for some tactical adjustments. Chief among them – cutting back on the showboating that saw him clowning and playing to the crowd even as he built an early lead on the scorecards.
“I need to be more focused this time and not do as much showboating. One of the commentators said: ‘Has anybody ever seen Tyson Fury clown this much against even lower level opposition?’ That’s how easy it was for me and you can get complacent.”
– Tyson Fury on his performance in the first Usyk fight
Still, Fury remains confident in his overall approach. He controlled long stretches of the first meeting with his jab, pressure, and craftiness. The challenger landed at will at times, unleashing varied combinations upstairs and down.
“I don’t need to change anything. I don’t think he can, either, because he ain’t going to outbox me on the back foot. He has to come forward and make a fight of it.”
– Tyson Fury on potential changes for the rematch
A New Respect
While Fury had unleashed a steady stream of trash talk in the build-up to the first bout, even seeming to ridicule Usyk at times, the Brit’s tone now reflects a newfound respect for his Ukrainian dance partner. Though he never felt Usyk’s power was enough to knock him out, he openly praises the undefeated champion’s boxing prowess.
“That’s the best I’ve ever seen Usyk box.”
– Tyson Fury on Oleksandr Usyk’s performance in their first fight
However, Fury is quick to contrast the cerebral challenge Usyk presents with the raw explosive menace of his great rival Deontay Wilder, a man who nearly knocked him out on multiple occasions over their epic trilogy.
“When you’re in the ring with a prime Deontay Wilder, with his 42 KOs, you’re in trouble whether it’s round one or round 12 with two seconds to go. One mistake, it’s game over. With Usyk, I don’t feel that much terror. There’s no fear.”
– Tyson Fury contrasts the threats of Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder
The Hunger Remains
Despite all he has already achieved in the sport, and the trappings of fame and fortune that have come with it, Tyson Fury still hungers for more. Where some fighters might lose their edge after tasting defeat for the first time, Fury seems to have emerged from it re-energized, eager to prove his greatness once again.
“I didn’t get the W on the night but it was a fantastic fight. That’s why we’re doing a rematch.”
– Tyson Fury on his loss to Oleksandr Usyk and the impetus for the rematch
In the end, beyond the belts, the money, or the glory, it’s that love of the fight itself that still fuels Tyson Fury. The chance to test his courage and his skill against the very best in the world, to push himself to the limit and find out what he’s truly made of. On Saturday night in Riyadh, he’ll get that chance once again, with the eyes of the world upon him.
Can the Gypsy King reclaim his heavyweight throne, or will Usyk’s mastery prove insurmountable? No matter the outcome, one thing is certain: Tyson Fury will leave everything he has in that ring, fighting until the final bell with the heart of a true warrior. For the pride, for the legacy, for the sheer love of the game. That’s who Tyson Fury is, and that will never change.
