Andy Lee, a seasoned trainer, has expressed confidence in Tyson Fury’s impending victory over Oleksandr Usyk, predicting a silencing of critics by the end of December. However, there’s notable hesitation regarding Fury’s upcoming bout against non-boxer Francis Ngannou in Riyadh. This fight, sanctioned by the British Boxing Board of Control, raises eyebrows among purists who question the integrity of crossover events.
Historically, crossover events have been contentious. Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s 2017 fight against MMA fighter Conor McGregor stirred debate, spotlighting the need for boxing to reassess its policies to uphold its esteemed reputation. Lee, while recognizing the entertainment value of such events, has expressed concerns about their legitimacy, particularly when a heavyweight champion is involved.
There are also concerns about Fury’s resilience in the ring. After significant weight loss and previous knockdowns by Deontay Wilder, questions about his punch resistance emerge. Yet, Lee remains steadfast in Fury’s preparation and commitment to the sport.
Critics suggest that Fury has been avoiding Oleksandr Usyk, a claim that Lee vehemently disputes. He believes that a bout between the two would not only satisfy fan anticipation but also be pivotal for the sport. A win for Fury would undeniably crown him as the undisputed heavyweight champion, reaffirming his dominance in the boxing world.
Image Credit: DAZN