Fury promoted doubts Tyson will get a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk

Promoter Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions believes that a rematch between former WBC world champion Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) and Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) is unlikely. Over the weekend, Usyk defeated Fury by split decision in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion of this century.

Warren expressed skepticism regarding Usyk’s willingness to face Fury again, suggesting that Usyk might choose to retire undefeated and as an undisputed champion in two weight classes.

“We will try to organize a rematch, especially considering that we have already committed to it, meaning we have signed contracts. But realize that for a second fight to happen, both must want the rematch. If one of them says, ‘I’m done,’ the second fight will not happen. Remember, they left everything in the ring. Usyk is the champion. He might announce his retirement. Understand, I am not claiming he will do so. But that possibility exists. Do you get it?” Warren said.

More on this topic:

Paul-Tyson fight draws record betting activity for combat event

Warren also noted that Fury has expressed his willingness for a rematch: “Fury has already given the green light for the second fight. He did it while still in the ring. He has been preparing for this fight since December, hasn’t seen his wife and kids. He had two consecutive fights, practically one on top of the other. He hasn’t been with his family for a long time. The final decision has not yet been made. Yes, on paper, we have agreed to the rematch. And if he wants to go through it again, he will. But no one can pressure him or tell him what to do. It is his choice. He is the one getting in the ring. He is the one taking the hits. It’s that simple.”

When asked about other potential fights for Fury, such as a matchup with former world champion Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs), Warren acknowledged the options available to Fury.

“Clearly, he has other good options. After all, Fury is a great fighter. This is only one loss. But I will say it again. This is a decision he has to make. I won’t even influence him in any way. Especially because this is Tyson Fury. He will either want to fight or he won’t. The only thing I told him about it was, ‘Don’t do what you did last time. Don’t announce your retirement only to come back a month later.’ You know, he sometimes does that. He’s done it more than once. I would like him to make his own decision. There is no pressure. It will be purely his decision,” Warren concluded.