Johnny Nelson has weighed in on the collapse in talks for undisputed heavyweight world title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.
Fans received the dreaded confirmation from both boxers’ teams this week that the historic four belt unification would not be happening on April 29th, despite months of statements to the contrary.
Public opinion has been split, Usyk’s side was the one that officially pulled out but some fans have accused Fury of ducking the fight with the Ukrainian.
Speaking to ESBR Boxing, Nelson admitted that it did not appear that Fury was a fighter exuding much confidence and that he had priced himself out of the contest.
“I think Tyson Fury beats Oleksandr Usyk, but by the sounds of it, Tyson Fury doesn’t believe that, because he’s priced himself out of the fight.”
“He’s got what he wanted, a 70/30 split. Whatever was the straw to break the camels back, he’s just pushed to get what he wants, and Usyk has said “you are not the end of my rainbow!” Conversation done.”
“That’s how it’s rolled.”
Unified world champion Usyk is now expected to look to fulfil his mandatory obligations, potentially starting with WBA Regular belt holder Daniel Dubois.
However, he has also been linked to a blockbuster bout with former world champion Deontay Wilder, with representatives in the Middle East reportedly interested in staging the contest.
Although a more lucrative fight than one of his mandatory defences, Usyk may have to vacate at least one of his world titles if he elects to fight ‘The Bronze Bomber’ next.
As for Fury, news broke last night that Queensberry stablemate Joe Joyce is the frontrunner for a summer showdown, provided he gets through his fight with Zhilei Zhang at the CopperBox Arena in just over two weeks’ time.