Oleksandr Usyk is hoping that a fight with Tyson Fury will happen in February 2024.
Following Fury’s split-decision win over Francis Ngannou, the fight date ended up being pushed back from December 23rd, 2023. The Gypsy King’s victory was much tougher than expected after he had to get up from the canvas in round three. While Ngannou was making his boxing debut, the former UFC heavyweight champion did not slow down as he managed to last the distance. In response, Frank Warren confirmed that a fight in 2023 was out of the question. Meanwhile, Usyk’s promoter (Alex Krassyuk) has confirmed that the Ukrainian has agreed to a new date, subject to an announcement.
“In the contract, it was December 23, but it’s a matter of common sense and common reason. If a fighter isn’t ready to go, you cannot make him. We would rather stay flexible, stay relaxed. We have settled already on the new date, and next week, we’re going to announce it; hopefully, of course. Yeah,” Krassyuk
In response, Usyk was hoping for a fight in February.
“It could be February and I would very much like it to be February. I was ready to fight on the 23rd but since Fury got some injuries in the last fight, a knockdown, then probably it will be postponed to next year. I’ll just do more technical work. Technically, nothing changes. I just have a little more time for some additional tasks, and that’s it,” Usyk stated
If the fight does not happen, then there will be calls for Fury to be stripped of the belt. And with no mandatory on the horizon, the fight must get made. And that frustration was expressed on social media.
Social Media Response
Looking forward to this fight so hope it does happen. I think Fury will be too much for Usyk but we'll see.
— AndyT (@AndyTech79) November 9, 2023
Was December then January now February yeah reight
— Jason Stubbs (@JayStubbs07) November 9, 2023
So after the big build up to the breaking news it's still not confirmed ? 🙄
— Jim (@jamsey55) November 9, 2023