Tyson Fury has opened up about his mistakes in the first fight with Oleksandr Usyk, admitting he'll need to make changes for their upcoming rematch. The two heavyweights are set to face off again on December 21, following Usyk's points victory in May.
Fury, known for his larger-than-life personality, now says he got carried away with showboating in their initial clash. Speaking on the Pound 4 Pound with Kamaru & Henry podcast, he explained his new approach:
"The adjustments I need to make is less complacency and a little bit more focused. Less clowning. I was clowning a lot in the ring, messing about, showboating. I was enjoying it too much and I think I became complacent and got caught."
This admission marks a shift from Fury's earlier stance where he claimed no major changes were needed. He now acknowledges the need to stay sharp throughout the entire fight:
"If I can keep my focus and be on my game for the full distance if it goes that far then I don't see why I don't get the decision this time around. But don't get me wrong, if the knockout comes early I'll take it."
The first bout saw Usyk score a crucial knockdown in the ninth round, securing a 10-8 score that proved decisive on the scorecards. With the win, Usyk matched Evander Holyfield's feat of becoming undisputed champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions - though Usyk's achievement comes in the four-belt era.
Fury's corner work in the first fight drew criticism for appearing confusing and chaotic. While he initially vowed to stick with the same team, he's now hinting at adjustments to his approach.
The rematch promises to be an epic clash, with both fighters having plenty to prove. Usyk has boldly claimed Fury will only stop him "in his dreams," while Fury is determined to reclaim his spot at the top of the heavyweight division.
Regardless of the outcome, Anthony Joshua waits in the wings, hoping for an all-British showdown with Fury. That potential clash looms large over the heavyweight landscape, adding even more intrigue to the upcoming Fury-Usyk rematch.
