Usyk Weary Of The Tyson Fury Uppercut Ahead Of Rematch

12/17/2024 03:31 AM

Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury earlier this year by the closest of margins on points, by a single point no less.

He copped some painful punches himself in the fight and is very focused ahead of this weekend’s rematch.

Speaking to BoxNation alongside his promoter Alex who translated for him, Usyk said (Ukrainian to English-translation below also for Usyk’s approximate remarks before his promoter Alex translates them)

“Interviewer (Box Nation): I’m joined by the unified heavyweight champion. That’s a very bright and unique outfit you’re wearing. Who designed it?

Champion: The idea came to me—something symbolic, something powerful. This outfit has themes of strength and symbolism, as well as a connection to my roots.

Interviewer: There’s a special word for these elements. What’s the word?

Champion: Yes, it’s a special plant that’s very common in Ukraine. There’s even a song about it. I can’t pronounce it in English, so I asked my team to help.

Interviewer: Let’s talk about rounds 3 to 6 in your last fight. Tyson had a lot of success with uppercuts to the body and head. What changed for you after round 6?

Champion: Yes, Tyson had some good moments early on with the uppercuts. But after the sixth round, I went to the corner, kissed my cross, and found a second wind.

Interviewer: Do you always bring the cross with you into the ring?

Champion: Always. It’s my faith.

Interviewer: How much has your faith in God played a role in your success across different levels of boxing?

Champion: Everything I have comes from God. He gives me challenges, and when I overcome them, He rewards me. Do I make mistakes? Of course. Do I sin? Yes, like everyone else. Sometimes I feel like there’s no greater sinner on this earth than me. But every day, morning and night, I beg God to help me become a better person.

Interviewer: You said you sometimes feel like the biggest sinner?

Champion: I don’t just feel it—I know it.

Interviewer: This time against Tyson, do you expect a tougher fight? Did you prepare differently in training camp, maybe with some grappling or jiu-jitsu?

Champion: I always work on grappling, but I don’t need it for boxing. For this fight, on December 21st, I’ll focus purely on boxing.

Interviewer: In the ninth round of the last fight, you were everywhere—almost wiping the floor with Tyson. Do you think you can finish him this time?

Champion: We’ll see on the 21st.

Interviewer: Do you think you’re already living rent-free in Tyson’s head?

Champion: I’ve been in Tyson’s head for a long time now. I’m there, living rent-free, eating, driving around—120 mph with the oil flying.

Interviewer: Anthony Joshua recently said he believes he can beat Tyson Fury twice. What do you think about that?

Champion: I don’t think about that at all. Right now, I’m only focused on lunch and the fight on the 21st. With God’s help, we’ll get the victory. After that, we can think about rematches or other fights. You can’t jump ahead too quickly. Don’t say “hop” until you’ve jumped.

Interviewer: I saw your recent interview with Boxing Media where you said you’re sick of boxing. What did you mean by that?

Champion: I meant the training—of course, the training. Try training like I do, and you’d feel sick of it, too! But I love boxing. I could box every day.

Interviewer: Any final message?

Champion: To Ukraine: my dear country, strong, incredible, and united. I love you. You will overcome everything and continue to win. Glory to God for everything. Glory to Ukraine!”

Indeed, the uppercut may be a key punch for Fury if it is set up right in the rematch.

On the mind games, it is unlikely either of these boxers are in one another’s heads.

They are too much of veterans at this point.

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