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MUHAMMAD ALI shared many profound insights — one particularly resonated with Tyson Fury, piercing him like a dagger.
Ali once said: “A significant loss in the ring will haunt you forever — it will torment you until you seek your retribution.”
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It would be fascinating to consider how many sleepless nights Fury has faced since losing his WBC heavyweight title to Oleksandr Usyk seven months ago.
Tyson is fiercely proud and the loss of the championship he kept for six years, along with his unbeaten record stretching 16 years, would undoubtedly sting deeply.
This setback appears to have grounded the Gypsy King, as seen in his demeanor at a press conference held at London’s historic Guildhall two months prior.
Fury exhibited noticeably less bravado and notably refrained from referring to WBC, WBA and WBO world champion Usyk as a dosser — a nickname he often uses.
To do so would imply admitting he lost to a dosser.
Clearly, he respects Usyk profoundly — as illustrated when his opponent unveiled a briefcase with a large photo of himself landing a powerful punch on Fury’s chin.
Usyk invited Fury — who was on his best behavior — to sign the picture, which he gladly did, smiling.
There’s a strong feeling that the Tyson from a few years ago would have torn it apart.
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He was viewed as an even-money favorite leading up to their first encounter in Riyadh, and in a closely fought, exhilarating 12-round match, Usyk justifiably secured a split decision victory.
This time around, Usyk holds a narrow edge as the favorite at 4-5. In analyzing the previous bout, I sensed Fury might be declining, as the punishing trilogy with Deontay Wilder seemed to affect his reflexes. His celebrity lifestyle likely contributed to this as well.
Oleksandr Usyk showcases incredible ‘reflexes of a cat’ and ripped physique just 17 days before the Tyson Fury rematch
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Furthermore, facing Usyk entails confronting one of boxing’s tactical geniuses, a strategist with a mind as sharp as an uncut diamond — someone who remains composed under pressure. It was expected that he displayed the acumen needed to counter Fury’s larger size and strength, ultimately securing a well-deserved split decision victory and becoming the first unified heavyweight champion in 24 years.
No new developments have emerged to change my assessment — except for the ill-advised decision by the IBF to require Usyk to surrender their title — and I predict we will see a similar result, perhaps with a clearer conclusion in their rematch just over a week from today.
Fury plans to eliminate the showboating he feels cost him dearly.
Tyson is a tremendously proud fighter, and the loss of the title he held for six years, along with his 16-year unbeaten record, would have caused him deep pain.
Colin Hart
Fury stated: “I’m going to be far more focused this time, and complacency will not be an option. There’s nothing drastic I need to change.”
“It’s well known that I’m aiming to knock him out because I don’t trust that a points decision will lean in my favor.”
Fury could very well employ a relentless body attack, targeting Usyk’s most susceptible areas, and he still possesses the capability to reclaim his title.
However, he has learned through experience that he cannot outbox Usyk, the technical master.
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During their bout in May, Usyk’s relentless assault in round nine left a bewildered Fury struggling to defend himself.
Many observers believed American referee Mark Nelson should have stopped the fight instead of allowing Tyson a standing eight count, giving him a chance to reach the bell.
Though Usyk isn’t known as a knockout artist, Fury’s evident distress showed that his ability to absorb punches is no longer what it once was.
Once again, Usyk is on a mission to uplift the spirits of 40 million Ukrainians affected by the ongoing war.
It’s a heavy responsibility, but I doubt he will let them down. I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of him stopping Fury in the later stages of the fight.
They say revenge is best served cold — Fury will find that exceedingly difficult amidst the heat of Saudi Arabia.
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