Gassiev: I haven’t watched Usyk fight yet

Murat Gassiev in the finale of the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS) in July lost to Alexander Usyk in the battle for the title of the undisputed cruiserweight champion. After this fight Gassiev underwent a surgery on his shoulder and in his last interview spoke about his health, the first conclusions after the defeat from Usyk, and about his future career.

- Murat, tell us how was the surgery on your shoulder, how is the recovery going?

- The state of health is excellent, like the mood. The surgery went well. Now there is a course of recovery, I will soon start training. It's hard to talk about terms. We need to watch how the recovery will go, how the hand will feel. Now we need to do everything right, not in a hurry.

- When will you take off your sling?

- Just a few days ago I took off the stiches. After three months you can take off the sling and slowly begin to run. And I will be able to start practicing one hundred percent in about six months.

- You have never tried to explain the failure in the battle with Usyk by injury. But how much did this discomfort in your shoulder hinder you?

- The injury affected, but this is by no means the reason for my defeat. Usyk was technically and tactically better prepared. It all just turned into one thing, and I lost on all counts.

- How many times have you reviewed the battle with Usyk?

- Not once. So far there is no time, and no desire. Then somehow I'll do it.

- Well, how to draw conclusions?

- It is necessary to be much more serious towards health, not to be careless, and one must train better.