Hall-of-famer Andre Ward has had his say on the potential unification bout between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, and he’s picking the bigger man for the win.
Speaking to Max Kellerman on the Max on Boxing show, Ward drew on an often-used boxing theory to make his pick.
“We’ve talked about this on the air for many years, that a good big man will always beat a good little man – and I believe that this will be the case in this situation.”
The former two-weight world champion went on to praise Fury’s style and heart, whilst not discounting the Ukrainian’s chances.
“You can’t write Usyk off by any stretch of the imagination but Tyson Fury is not Anthony Joshua. Tyson Fury has an amateur pedigree. Tyson Fury is big, he’s got a range, and he knows how to use it. He’s not conflicted about his style, he’s not conflicted about what kind of fighter he is. He knows that he can box, but he’s also got that dog in him. “
“We’ve seen him get off the canvas against a puncher like Deontay Wilder, getting hit with these shots that take most men out, and he found a way to get up, bit down on his gum shield, stick to the game plan, and go get the win.”
Ward is well-qualified to comment on a fight that, most assume, will be heavily reliant on skill, defence, and movement. With over 120 amateur fights and an undefeated pro career, the American frustrated many opponents with his tactics.
Closing on the subject, he praised both men for looking to unify the heavyweight belts.
“I don’t think there will be any difference in this fight with Usyk, but it’s intriguing because of the skill set of both guys, the size differential between Usyk and Tyson Fury, and the fact that both guys want the fight. This is what excites me – I get goosebumps when I see Usyk say ‘I don’t want another fight, I want the other dude that has the other belt.’”
The fight, as per Fury’s promoters, is likely to be made.