Yesterday’s announcement revealed that Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury are set for a rematch on December 21st in Saudi Arabia, following their initial clash earlier this month, which saw the Ukrainian emerge victorious by split decision.
Despite Usyk’s triumph, ‘The Gypsy King’ wasted no time in triggering the rematch clause, setting the stage for another showdown between the two heavyweight giants in just seven months.
In a piece for Sky Sports, former cruiserweight world champion Johnny Nelson expressed concerns about Fury’s mental state leading up to the rematch.
Nelson pondered, “My main concern between now and then is Tyson’s mental appetite for this rematch, knowing that Usyk had the better of him once.”
He highlighted the challenge Fury faces in reconciling his belief in his own abilities with Usyk’s victory.
Nelson emphasized Fury’s deep understanding and appreciation of boxing history, suggesting that accepting defeat and adjusting his mindset for the rematch might prove difficult for the British heavyweight.
“If you have been at the top of the tree and you believe you’re the best in the world, no matter what, then all of a sudden somebody gets the better of you, it’s very hard to accept that,” Nelson remarked.
The rematch between the Undisputed Champion Oleksandr Usyk and the Champion Tyson Fury is now scheduled on the 21 of December 2024 during Riyadh Season…The world will watch another historical fight again…Our commitment to boxing fans continues…We hope you enjoy it…🥊🔥🇸🇦
— TURKI ALALSHIKH (@Turki_alalshikh) May 29, 2024
Reflecting on Fury’s exceptional physical condition and meticulous preparation for the first fight, Nelson questioned what adjustments Fury could make for the rematch.
He concluded by underscoring the mental hurdles Fury must overcome to reclaim victory in the highly anticipated rematch against Usyk.
Repeat or revenge? How do you see the rematch playing out? Let us know in the comments.