1 day Ago By [email protected] (James Evans)
Heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk is set to take a long and extended break from the sport of boxing , according to his manager Egis Klimas. The news comes following the Ukrainian's stunning win over Tyson Fury last month. The pair first went glove-to-glove back in May - with Usyk going on to hand the 'Gypsy King' the first defeat of his professional career after edging a close contest in Riyadh .
Looking to level the series last month, Fury started strong and was in control of the first few rounds. Usyk seemed to struggle with the Brit's jab as well as the shots to the body. However, momentum shifted just before the midway point of the sequel as the Ukrainian's sharp footwork and electrifying speed appeared to catch the Morecambe brawler off-guard.
The two heavyweights stars once again went the distance, with Usyk going on to get his hand raised via unanimous decision . After sharing a grand total of 24 rounds with the 'Gypsy King,' it's fair to say that 'The Cat' has earned some well deserved time away from the ring. Klimas, Usyk's manager, has now revealed that his client needs a few months off ahead of his next fight.
In an interview with Boxing Scene , he said: “It’ll be a very long preparation. After another 12 rounds with Fury, he needs a good, long recovery.” He went on to add that he anticipates Usyk's next fight will fall at “the end of July, or August.
” It's likely that Usyk's next fight will take place against the winner of Daniel Dubois vs Joseph Parker - which is scheduled to take place next month. Dubois made quite the impression following Usyk's clash with Fury and was labelled 'embarrassing' after confronting the Ukrainian in the ring following his victory over the 'Gypsy King' . The Brit placed himself opposite the Ukrainian and delivered both a challenge and congratulations in a slightly awkward looking encounter.
“I want my revenge," said Dubois after taking the microphone from the interviewer. "I want my revenge Usyk! Well done tonight, well done. God bless.
I want my revenge for the robbery last time. Let’s go, let’s go. Make it happen Frank!" Usyk quickly asserted he was open to a rematch.
He replied: "Your excellency, make the fight with Daniel Dubois. Thank you so much. I can do more.
I’m ready to fight (Dubois), no problem. Next fight no problem. Now I want to go home and rest.
" Turki Alalshikh recently revealed his plans to book the rematch between Usyk and Dubois , providing 'Triple D' gets through Joseph Parker in February . Speaking to The Stomping Ground , he said: “Next, if Dubois wins in February, I want to see Usyk and Dubois again. And I want to see Tyson, maybe with [Anthony] Joshua or something, we will decide.
Let’s see what can happen, everything in Riyadh Season is realistic...
The most important thing is the fans enjoy it.”.
