Deontay Wilder has weighed in with his thoughts on the December 21st rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk.
Fury, who shared an epic trilogy with Wilder, was on the wrong end of a split decision after twelve grueling rounds against Usyk in Riyadh back in May.
‘The Gypsy King’ was enjoying plenty of success in the early stages of the contest, however the script flipped completely after he was badly hurt and dropped in the ninth round by the Ukrainian.
The ropes appeared to keep Fury up on several occasions, and referee Mark Nelson stepped in just when it looked like Usyk was about to deliver a fight-ending right hand.
And in an interview with Boxing News, Wilder claimed the Olympic gold medalist was “robbed” of a stoppage victory.
“I thought it was a great fight, I was on the fence on things, I didn’t know who was going to win. I always think it’s what dog bring what bite to the fight and Oleksandr’s bite was bigger.
I think he got robbed of a knockout in the ninth round for sure. Gifts, gifts, gifts, were given.
At the end of the day Usyk won and big congratulations to him.”
When asked for his thoughts on how the rematch between Fury and Usyk will play out, ‘The Bronze Bomber’ admitted he’s leaning towards a repeat result, however he’s not counting out his old foe.
“The rematch, who knows, it’s all about what person brings what dog to the fight. Many times we have good days and we have bad days, you just never know.
“If I had to pick I would say Usyk, but let’s see what happens.”
There is much speculation as to what approach Fury will take when he attempts to score revenge over Usyk, with some pundits claiming he looked noticeably heavier at last week’s launch press conference.
