Oleksandr Usyk fires warning to Tyson Fury ahead of rematch as champion opens up on his ‘incredible’ motivation
Usyk Issues Stark Warning to Fury Ahead of High-Stakes Rematch: A Multi-Million Pound Gamble
As the boxing world eagerly anticipates their highly anticipated rematch, Oleksandr Usyk has delivered a bold and unambiguous warning to Tyson Fury, underlining the severe financial and reputational stakes involved. The two heavyweights are set to clash once more on December 21 in Saudi Arabia, with Fury looking to avenge his sole professional defeat, which came at the hands of Usyk earlier this year.
In an exclusive interview with Ready To Fight, Usyk made it clear that Fury’s commitment to the bout is not just a matter of professional honor but also of substantial financial consequence. According to Usyk, any decision by Fury to withdraw from the fight would result in the forfeiture of a considerable multi-million-pound payday. “There’s no way he’s backing out,” Usyk asserted. “The ball is firmly in our court now.”
The Ukrainian champion emphasized that both fighters are bound by a contract that extends to December 31. This legally binding agreement means that should Fury decide to pull out on December 21, he stands to lose all his earnings from the bout, along with the associated dividends. Furthermore, such an action would irreversibly damage his reputation, leaving him with the tarnished label of someone who failed to honor his commitments.
Usyk’s statement comes in the wake of his remarkable victory over Fury in May, which saw him become the undisputed heavyweight champion. The fight was a hard-fought battle, with Usyk nearly ending it in the ninth round before eventually securing a win on points. Reflecting on that encounter, Usyk admitted that certain aspects of Fury’s performance surprised him, noting that his understanding of Fury’s style was deeper than what was evident from past televised bouts.
“We’re now gearing up for this rematch with the utmost seriousness,” Usyk continued. “The last fight taught me a lot about Fury, things that I hadn’t noticed from his previous matches on TV. This time, we’ll be even better prepared. With God’s blessing, we’ll showcase an even more formidable version of myself.”
Usyk’s drive and determination are fueled by a powerful blend of personal and professional motivations. “I have incredible motivation,” he explained. “People often ask what’s next after achieving so much, but every day brings new challenges and opportunities. My motivation comes from my team, my family, my faith in God, my country, my wife, my children—everything that surrounds me and that I hold dear.”
He added that his only fear is a profound reverence for God, which compels him to strive for excellence. “I’m not afraid of anything except for the Lord God, and that fear is rooted in love and respect,” Usyk said. “We are working tirelessly in the training camp to ensure that I present the best version of myself. Every day is a new opportunity to improve, and I am committed to being in peak condition once again.”
As the rematch approaches, the anticipation builds, with fans and pundits alike eager to see if Fury can reclaim his status and if Usyk can further cement his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats.