Michael Hunter says he beat Tyson Fury in an amateur boxing match back in 2006. The American heavyweight claims he had Fury 'out on his feet' during their bout in London, even though Fury got the official win.
Hunter and Fury faced off as the main event of a UK versus US tournament at a black-tie event. The match came before Fury turned pro in 2008, a decision he made after getting disillusioned with amateur boxing and missing out on an Olympic spot to David Price.
Hunter told the story of their encounter, saying the Americans had already knocked out about eight of the British fighters before he stepped in the ring with Fury.
"I kicked his butt. I almost had him knocked out, had him out on his feet," Hunter said. "Obviously he was standing up so they gave him the victory."
The American boxer also claims there was supposed to be a rematch a couple of days later, but Fury didn't show up. Hunter accused Fury of quitting, saying, "They always do [that]. Pull out."
Despite Fury's success as a two-time world champion with a unique heavyweight style, Hunter thinks people might overestimate Fury's skills. He admits Fury is big, tall, and hard to deal with, but also says he's "not as polished as people think" and has been "too spotty" in his performances.
Hunter moved up to heavyweight after losing a bid for Oleksandr Usyk's cruiserweight world title. He's keeping an eye on the heavyweight division, where Usyk recently beat Fury to become the undisputed champion.
With Usyk and Fury set for a rematch on December 21, Hunter predicts Usyk will win again.
