Tyson Fury has been given a vote of confidence by some of heavyweight boxing’s biggest names ahead of his WBC World heavyweight title bout with Deontay Wilder this Saturday in Los Angeles.
Fury, who will attempt to topple the unbeaten American knockout artist in only his third fight in as many years, has been in confident mood throughout the build-up as he seeks to claim the only World title that has eluded him so far in his career.
When quizzed recently as to how they felt the fight would go, former heavyweight champions Lennox Lewis, Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson were all in agreement that Fury may hold the edge the longer the fight goes due to his unorthodox style and sheer size.
“I think with Deontay’s power, he might be able to end it early.” said four-time champion Evander Holyfield on Tuesday in Hollywood.
“But if Tyson [Fury] can frustrate him and it goes the distance, then it could go his way.
“Tyson’s always been the bigger fighter. In fighting Deontay, it’s the same case. If things get difficult, he’s (Fury’s) got more experience and a lot of tricks.” he finished.
Lennox Lewis echoed the thoughts of his former opponent, however, stating that he felt the fight “belongs” to Fury should it go the distance.
“If it goes the distance, then it belongs to Tyson Fury.” Lewis said.
“If it’s a short fight, it will belong to Deontay Wilder.”
Lastly, heavyweight legend – and Fury’s namesake – Mike Tyson pointed to the mental strength showcased by the ‘Gypsy King’ in his well-documented battle with depression as a positive when considering the outcome.
‘Iron’ Mike spoke forebodingly about the power possessed by ‘The Bronze Bomber’, but said he believes Fury has “a fighting chance” when he seeks to upset the odds once again on foreign soil.
“Although Wilder’s punch is strong, nothing can compare to the mental strength Fury has shown both in and out of the ring.” said Tyson.
“It’ll be a close call, but I think Fury’s got a true fighting chance.”