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The highly anticipated bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury is set to take place on February 17, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a historic clash for the undisputed heavyweight title. The two undefeated champions met for a media conference in London last Thursday, which quickly escalated into a heated confrontation, highlighting the simmering tensions between the rivals.
Usyk, the reigning IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion, acknowledged Fury's prowess in both the ring and the art of self-promotion. "He's number one when it comes to press conferences," Usyk stated. "He talks a lot, I can't beat him no matter how hard I try, I don't think it's possible.
He's the first man when it comes to punching, but well, I respect him and his team."
Usyk explained that he does not want to fight at the press conference
However, Usyk also took issue with Fury's behavior during the press conference, particularly an incident where Fury pressed his forehead against Usyk.
"There was physical contact," Usyk explained. "I told him, 'Listen, I'm ready to fight, every night, always. This is a press conference, a show, but if you want to push me, I won't stay relaxed. Don't touch me please, we'll talk in the ring.'
" The tense exchange between the two champions underscores the high stakes of the upcoming fight. With all four major heavyweight titles on the line, the winner will be crowned the undisputed champion, a feat not achieved since Lennox Lewis in 1999.
The clash between Usyk and Fury is shaping up to be one of the most significant heavyweight fights in recent years. With both fighters undefeated and boasting impressive records, the anticipation for the bout is palpable. The tensions that flared during the press conference only add to the intrigue, suggesting that the fight itself will be an explosive affair.
Fury probably acted a little bit in that situation because he is known to always want to hype up the match as much as possible.