The first undisputed heavyweight title fight in 24 years is tantalisingly close and Paulie Malignaggi hasn’t been able to resist making his prediction.
WBO, WBA and IBF champion Oleksandr Usyk versus lineal and WBC champion Tyson Fury represents a mouthwatering clash in the marquee division. It has long been talked of but is finally set to happen in Saudi Arabia pending a date and venue announcement following Fury’s upcoming fight with former MMA champion Francis Ngannou on October 28.
It’s expected to be by far his toughest test since a trilogy of fights with Deontay Wilder saw him become a two-time champion with two impressive wins following one controversial draw in their first contest in 2019.
Speaking on his own Paulie TV, the former champion first shared his delight at Fury’s unpredictable character having previously said he expected him to announce his retirement.
“Tyson Fury delivers again [by signing this fight]. That’s why you gotta love this guy, he’s like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gunna get.”
With the fight now finally made, he was asked how he saw it going and was direct with his response.
“I think Fury beats him. I think it’s 65-35 Fury. I think he’s too big.”
That is a view shared by many in the industry, but that won’t stop it from being one of the biggest fights in recent history, with Fury set to earn at least $100m according to his Top Rank promoter Bob Arum.