With just 15 days remaining until Tyson Fury faces Oleksandr Usyk in their rematch on December 21, questions are swirling about Fury’s physical condition. The bout, set to air live on DAZN, will see Fury attempt to reclaim the WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles from the unbeaten Ukrainian champion.
Recent photos of Fury suggest the “Gypsy King” may not be in peak physical shape, with estimates placing him in the 270-pound range. This mirrors his weight for his second and third bouts against Deontay Wilder. However, observers note that Fury appeared more fit and agile in those contests than he does now. His decision to bulk up for the rematch has raised concerns about whether his strategy will work against the technically skilled and athletic Usyk.
The approach seems to echo Fury’s tactics against Wilder and Wladimir Klitschko, where he relied on his size and weight to bully his opponents. However, against the lighter and more mobile Usyk, this strategy may backfire. Critics suggest that Fury’s current shape indicates less emphasis on conditioning and more on size, potentially making him slower against an opponent who thrives on speed and precision.
Usyk, a natural cruiserweight who has seamlessly transitioned to heavyweight, remains a difficult puzzle for Fury to solve. In their first fight, Usyk's movement and technical prowess led to a unanimous decision victory. If Fury enters the ring at a heavier weight without maintaining his usual stamina, it could play into Usyk's hands.
Financially, Fury remains in a commanding position. The rematch is expected to earn him a purse exceeding $100 million, potentially pushing his net worth above $200 million. With rumored fights against Anthony Joshua on the horizon in 2025, Fury’s career earnings could surpass $400 million before retirement.
Read more about Tyson's career achievements here.
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