On May 9, 2024, Tony Bellew provided valuable insights regarding the upcoming heavyweight championship boxing match between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk scheduled for May 18. Speaking with Boyle Sports, Bellew pointed out a critical element missing in Fury's strategy that could decide the outcome of the fight.
Bellew, who previously faced Usyk in 2018, suggested that Fury’s current aggressive style under trainer Sugar Hill Steward might not be effective against Usyk’s strategic approach. He noted that during his time with coach Peter Fury, Tyson used his height and reach more defensively which could have been more suitable to counter Usyk’s tactics. According to Bellew, pressing Usyk can play into the Ukrainian's hands as he excels in drawing opponents in without needing to close distance himself.
He elaborated on the dynamics of the anticipated fight saying Tyson's approach might lead him into traps set by Usyk. He predicted that if both fighters were the same size, Usyk’s technical superiority would lead him to victory quite easily. The fight is expected to unfold with Usyk building a lead in the early rounds making Fury chase him which could result in Fury having shaky moments but will try to pressure Usyk in the middle rounds. Ultimately, Usyk is predicted to dominate in the championship rounds and win by unanimous decision.
Fury has recently struggled against boxing debutant Francis Ngannou and also suffered a training setback with a cut that delayed their original fight date raising concerns about his readiness. On the other hand, since moving up to heavyweight after fighting Bellew, Usyk has recorded significant victories including two wins over Anthony Joshua and one over Daniel Dubois.
In recalling his own experience fighting Usyk for the undisputed cruiserweight title where he was knocked out in the eighth round after strong early showings, Bellew acknowledged Usyk’s high-caliber proficiency throughout his career progression into heavyweight boxing.
