Tony Bellew has applauded Jake Paul and Tommy Fury for the marketing of their fight, but that’s as far as he goes with the rivalry.
The former world cruiserweight champion previously highlighted and commended the ‘madness’ of the event, complimenting the fighters on their ability to sell an eight round fight between a ‘novice and a YouTuber.’
Asked if he’s keen on seeing a rematch, though, and ‘Bomber’ draws the line there.
“Fair play to both lads they played a blinder with this! You got me with the first one you really did but fool me once it’s on you, fool me twice that’s on me… I’m good thanks.”
“Oh no not this time… good on them they got me fully switched on to it… That won’t happen again.”
Bellew’s view presents a larger question around the marketing and hype for a potential second fight.
Paul’s aura was created by a sense of intrigue, and fans were sold on his confidence and ability to claim a much higher level than people thought possible. Many in the sport were picking him to win – including world champions – and the bookies had him as favourite.
Despite no stoppage, Fury showed that boxing fundamentals will beat the American – and fans are convinced he’d do it again just the same. So is a second fight sellable?
The loser has already said he will activate his rematch clause in the contract, and it’s hard to see where else he goes in the immediate future other than taking it.
The timeframe is unknown, as well as if it’ll land in Saudi Arabia again, but one thing’s for sure – Paul may have to find a new angle if he wants as much fanfare this time around.