The potential for beauty and happiness was squandered as Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury backed out of their commitments and sought solace elsewhere. Now, after a long period of silence, both fighters are returning to the ring with new partners by their side, partners who deviate from their usual preferences. On August 26, in Wrocław, Poland, Usyk will face Daniel Dubois, a 25-year-old newcomer to the heavyweight division. Meanwhile, Fury is set to fight Francis Ngannou, a 36-year-old mixed martial artist, in Saudi Arabia on October 28. Of the two fights, Usyk vs. Dubois is the more straightforward. It’s a legitimate boxing match between two boxers, unlike Fury’s bout with a boxing novice like Ngannou.
The fight between Usyk and Dubois is comprehensible. It involves two boxers, making it easier to follow. Dubois, despite his rawness and still being in a learning phase, possesses exceptional punching power and has the physicality of a heavyweight. While his WBA “regular” title has its pros and cons, according to the rules of the WBA, he rightfully deserves this fight. Dubois should be commended for his bravery rather than criticized for accepting a challenging opponent. Even if he may not have a realistic chance of winning, his age allows him to learn from the experience and potentially time his second title run better. There is always the chance that Dubois could defy expectations and defeat Usyk, just as unexpected outcomes have occurred in the past.
Usyk, on the other hand, finds himself in a different situation when facing Dubois in Poland. Previously, in his fights against Anthony Joshua, Usyk felt like he was boxing in foreign territory. However, this time, he will have the advantage of fighting in a relatively familiar environment. Usyk’s manager emphasizes that they are not underestimating Dubois and are fully preparing for a tough challenge. They view this fight as a stepping stone towards unifying titles and consider it a significant opportunity. Usyk seems to recognize that this fight is not the pinnacle of his career but an essential stepping stone.
In contrast, the fight between Fury and Ngannou is seen as a lucrative spectacle rather than a meaningful showdown. Although the event will take place in a regulation boxing ring under professional boxing rules, it is a fight that nobody requested or needs to see. It is happening solely because both fighters stand to gain substantial financial rewards. Fury, known for his ability to generate attention and create narratives, is well aware of the circus-like nature of this fight. Boxing, particularly the WBC as the sanctioning body, must take responsibility for guiding the heavyweight division back on track.
Overall, the anticipation for Usyk vs. Dubois is higher, as it represents a true boxing match between two fighters. In contrast, Fury’s fight with Ngannou is viewed as a sideshow intended for monetary gain.
Source link