Tyson Fury Gains Weight to Defeat Oleksandr Usyk: Expert Issues a Strong Warning

The highly anticipated rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, scheduled for December 21, 2024, in Riyadh, promises to deliver high drama. Fury’s decision to gain weight in preparation for the fight has sparked both excitement and skepticism, as experts question whether this strategy will be enough to overcome Usyk’s superior skills.

Fury’s Plan to Gain Weight

Known as “The Gypsy King,” Tyson Fury has announced a significant shift in his approach for the upcoming bout. He plans to increase his weight from 119 kg to 124 kg, aiming to leverage his size for a knockout victory. Fury explained his strategy during a conversation with Undisputed:

“I’m going into this fight with a destruction mode. Last time, I was too cautious… But this time, I’m not looking for a decision win. I’m going to knock him out.”

Fury’s aggressive mindset reflects his determination to reclaim the titles he lost in their first meeting, where Usyk secured a unanimous decision victory, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999. The defeat marked a major setback for Fury and set the stage for this heated rematch.

Skepticism from Malik Scott

While Fury’s strategy might excite fans, Malik Scott, the trainer of Deontay Wilder and part of Usyk’s camp, has raised doubts about its effectiveness. Scott believes that Fury’s weight gain will not guarantee success against a fighter as skilled as Usyk.

Scott shared his perspective:

“Usyk thrives against larger opponents. Size doesn’t win fights—skills do. Usyk is one of the best craftsmen in boxing history. To beat him, you need technical precision and stamina. Fury’s extra weight might actually work against him.”

Scott referenced Usyk’s proven ability to outclass bigger fighters, emphasizing that the Ukrainian champion’s agility and technique often neutralize the physical advantages of his opponents.

A Clash of Strategies

Fury’s decision to bulk up comes as a stark contrast to his more cautious approach in their first fight. This time, he aims to dominate Usyk with power and aggression, seeking to end the fight early and avoid another drawn-out battle.

However, Scott pointed to Usyk’s resilience in the ring, recalling the challenges he overcame against Daniel Dubois in 2023. Dubois landed a devastating body shot that left Usyk on the canvas for five minutes, but the Ukrainian bounced back to win the fight. Fury’s ability to replicate such an impact remains uncertain, given that his strength lies more in endurance and technical skills than raw punching power.

What’s at stake?

For Tyson Fury, this rematch is more than just a chance to reclaim his titles—it’s an opportunity to restore his reputation as the dominant force in heavyweight boxing. Meanwhile, Oleksander Usyk, who continues to showcase his brilliance, aims to solidify his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions.

The decision to gain weight is a gamble for Fury. If successful, it could lead to a stunning comeback and a memorable knockout victory. But if it backfires, Fury risks being outmaneuvered and outclassed by Usyk once again.

Expert Predictions

Boxing analysts remain divided on the outcome of the fight. While Fury’s size and power could pose new challenges for Usyk, many believe the Ukrainian’s superior skills and adaptability will prevail.

As Scott warned:

“If Fury can’t fight effectively when fatigued, he won’t be able to beat Usyk. This isn’t just about power—it’s about precision, stamina, and mental toughness.”

The rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in boxing history. With Fury’s bold strategy to gain weight and Usyk’s proven dominance, fans are in for a thrilling clash of styles and tactics.

Whether Fury’s gamble will pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the fight will be a spectacle that defines the heavyweight division for years to come.