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Usyk Wins The Mind Games In The Fury Presser

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Oct 24, 2024 1:52 AM ET

Oleksandr Usyk won the mind games in his kick-off presser for the Tyson Fury rematch on December 21.

Usyk defeated Fury to give him his first loss as he became the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion. The Ukrainian was the better fighter, walking Fury down during the early and latter parts of the fight. He almost knocked out the Gypsy King in the ninth round, coming back into the fight after Fury had shown some resolve in the middle rounds. Fury did not take the result very well, claiming that Usyk only got the decision due to the Russia-Ukraine war. He also re-watched the fight and claimed he had won, calling Usyk an amateur boxer.

The two fighters have been talking up their chances ahead of the rematch. Usyk’s team feel that they could retire Fury with a knockout, while the Gypsy King has promised to stop Usyk by doing what he did to Deontay Wilder in the rematch. There is plenty on the line for both fighters. Another win for Usyk may increase the calls on him to retire. He is already a two-weight undisputed champion after having won titles at cruiserweight and heavyweight. He also won a gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics.

Face Off

@usykaa and @Tyson_Fury run it back for the Unified World Heavyweight Championship #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/Eg0u9xGswI
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024

He has also had a glittering amateur career. And at 37 years old, he does not need to take further risks. This is especially true since he has spoken about potentially having a crossover BKFC fight, showing he has numerous possibilities. At the same time, another defeat for Fury may increase the calls on him to retire. His brother, Shane Fury, said he would like him to walk away from the sport after the Usyk rematch, regardless of the result. However, with a potential Anthony Joshua fight still on the table, Fury will want to ensure he wins.

Usyk won several mind games as he dressed up as a hitman for the presser. He pulled out a picture from his briefcase showing him landing a massive punch on Fury. He then called on Fury to sign it, which he did. Usyk also mocked Fury’s skills, saying he surprised him a lot, only to say he could not remember what they were. While Fury mimicked that answer, Usyk was in control of the presser as the two fighters had very little to say.

Presser

@usykaa FINALLY reveals what's in the case #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/NcDRyTlcEu
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024

Another rematch KO for @Tyson_Fury? #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/eKOqDgftXD
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024

That's right @EddieHearn is Team Fury in December #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN |@Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/jNvSwazStv
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024

'Enough.'

Never change, @usykaa #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/9rRcZOJZGA
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024

Underdog mentality for @Tyson_Fury #UsykFury2 | #RiyadhSeason | December 21, live on DAZN | @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/slsqgAUVCs
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) October 23, 2024