Alexander Krassyuk, the promoter of unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, remains hopeful that Tyson Fury will greenlight a bout between the two heavyweight titans. In a recent interview, Krassyuk stated that the fight will only materialize if Fury, the WBC titlist, consents. The two fighters, including WBO, WBA, and IBF titlist Usyk, have been in fluctuating negotiations over the past year with no resolution. For now, they will be pursuing separate paths. Usyk is set to defend his titles against Daniel Dubois on Aug. 26 in Poland, while Fury is expected to face ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou in an exhibition fight.
Earlier this summer, discussions had been initiated about a possible bout between Fury, 34, and Usyk, 36, in Saudi Arabia as part of a four-fighter tournament. The prospective line-up would also include Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua. Under the aegis of Skill Challenge Entertainment, the tournament is expected to yield hefty career purses for all the fighters involved. However, the group's leader, Amer Abdallah, has made it clear that their offers are not open to negotiation. Interestingly, Usyk recently signed with Skill Challenge.
However, Krassyuk’s expectations hinge solely on Fury’s willingness. “It might happen, with only one condition: that Tyson Fury agrees to fight Oleksandr Usyk,” Krassyuk voiced during an interview with Seconds Out. “We've done everything needed to make it happen. Now the ball is on their side.” Urging Fury to consider the significance of the potential bout for his fans, Krassyuk emphasized the value of the contest with Usyk. He added, “He became who he is only due to his fans, the public. And now he has to show this respect to the public.” As the boxing world awaits Fury’s response, the possibility of this dream matchup still lingers.
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