Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk hold all four heavyweight titles between them, and a fight to crown an undisputed champion is one of the most sought-after in the sport.
Around the time that the match-up actually looked likely, former super-middleweight world champion, George Groves, said he was backing the Ukrainian to win because he was ‘a fan boy’ even though he questioned the size difference.
Months later, no fight has been cemented, but the former world champion turned pundit has secured his prediction. Speaking to IFL TV, Groves said he’s confident the Ukrainian wins.
“I think he beats Tyson. He’s a better boxer than Tyson. I think sharper with the feet. He hasn’t really ever come unstuck, Usyk, not since he’s been up at heavyweight. I think he’s been getting better and better.
He had that round with Joshua where he got caught, but it just shows you he’s got a good chin.”
Groves believes that the timing is right for Usyk to beat Fury, whose last three fights are Deontay Wilder, Dillian Whyte and Derek Chisora.
“He’s a totally different fighter than Fury’s fought for the last few years. I just think he’s fresh, in-form, and Fury hasn’t boxed really that much lately has he?
He’s into retirement and the he’s not, and now he’s got an exhibition fight. So different mentality. And I think maybe Fury doesn’t quite fancy this Usyk fight, That’s why it hasn’t been made.”
Unfortunately for fans, it’s a prediction that just may never be put to the test. Negotiations crumbled earlier this year, and Usyk is now facing Daniel Dubois as a mandatory challenger.
Fury has moved in a different direction entirely, putting his duties as WBC champion on hold for a crossover event with MMA star, Francis Ngannou.