Boxing Social spoke with legend Evander Holyfield about how he would fare in a fantasy fight against heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk.
Speaking from fight week in Jeddah, the only four-time heavyweight champion in history was humble in his views. Why would he struggle in the ring with the Ukrainian? Because they were, as fighters, too similar.
“It probably [would have] been difficult for me. Guys that I was real good with were bullies. A guy that was aggressive. I handle very aggressive fighters real well.”
“If you ever want to know how a guy would give a guy a problem – find somebody just like him. People who [weren’t] aggressive were difficult.”
‘The Real Deal’ by name and by nature, Holyfield remains the only boxer to reign undisputed at both cruiserweight and heavyweight. With that, he is more qualified to comment on Usyk’s rematch with Anthony Joshua than most.
His domination at two weight classes is something Usyk is looking to replicate. In the other corner, Joshua will be looking at Holyfield’s success in title fights for some inspiration on his revenge mission.
When discussing his prediction for the rematch – coming this Saturday live on Sky Sports Box Office – Holyfield left it open, insisting that there’s a path to victory for whichever boxer can impose their gameplan.
“When each individual fights their fight, they probably could win. What comes with the little guy [Usyk] – quick hands, good movement. What comes with the big guy [Joshua] – strong and big punches. So, it’s whoever fights their fight.”
If you don’t land no big shots, then the little guy is going to outpoint you – and plus, he’s got power.”
Finally, asked about an exhibition showing or a future fight, Holyfield smiled wryly and no doubt pleased fans who want to see his historic résumé stay intact.
“Oh no. I’m good.”