Alexander Krassyuk, promoter of the unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, has expressed willingness to postpone the much-anticipated undisputed heavyweight championship fight with Tyson Fury—provided there’s a valid justification. Following Fury’s recent narrow victory over Francis Ngannou, questions about the timing of his next bout with Usyk have emerged.
Krassyuk, speaking after Fury’s close call in Saudi Arabia, stressed the need for a doctor’s note if Fury is to delay the fight beyond the planned December 23 date. While the battle of the titans was announced last month, the exact date was left unconfirmed, with rumors suggesting a possible move to January.
Usyk’s team has made it clear they prefer the December date, but Fury’s grueling fight with Ngannou, which included a knockdown, has cast doubt on that timeline. Frank Warren, Fury’s promoter, suggested Fury should rest until next year, hinting at February as a new potential slot.
Krassyuk is understanding of potential injuries but remains skeptical of delay tactics that aren’t supported by medical evidence. He pointedly remarked to SecondsOut, “If it’s just they don’t want to fight Usyk because he is weak, and they don’t want to take risk, then it doesn’t sound reasonable for me.” He emphasized the lack of difference in outcome based on the date, advocating for “the sooner the better” approach to the fight.
Image Credit: Matchroom Boxing