Holyfield and Usyk share a unique achievement in boxing history. They're the only two fighters who've become undisputed champions at both cruiserweight and heavyweight. Usyk followed in Holyfield's footsteps, winning all four belts at cruiserweight before moving up to heavyweight.
At heavyweight, Usyk beat Anthony Joshua twice to claim the WBA, WBO, and IBF titles. He then added the WBC belt to his collection by defeating Fury in their first fight via split decision.
Holyfield told The Ring Magazine about a conversation he had with Usyk years ago:
"When I met Usyk, he told me, 'I'm going to do exactly the same thing you did by becoming undisputed cruiserweight and go to heavyweight and become the champion there.' I said, 'More power to you.' And you know what, he did it."
Looking ahead to the rematch, Holyfield thinks both fighters will make small adjustments:
"At this stage and age of their career, they can only change the little things for the rematch. Usyk is a guy who throws a lot of punches. He has quicker hands and quicker reflexes. He's small and may have to take some to give some. He's going to do the things that are necessary to win. It comes down to who he is as a person. Usyk is a guy that works hard all of the time. I like that. I was that person too, like Usyk – when I had a job to do, I always gave it my very best."
While Holyfield predicts Usyk will outpoint Fury, he doesn't rule out a knockout:
"I think Usyk can knock him out if he lands consistent shots. Fury has the height and reach and is a good boxer. He's hard to get. Everything is about timing, landing combinations, and stepping in at the right time."
Holyfield also addressed the controversy from the first fight:
"For whatever reason they didn't stop the fight in the ninth. I try not to be controversial because I'm a fighter myself. I trained to be the very best. I like both of these guys. They're both skilled and whoever wins, wins. I like Usyk. I think he will outpoint him."
The rematch between Usyk and Fury is set for Saturday, December 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The WBC, WBA, and WBO world heavyweight titles will be on the line in what promises to be an exciting clash between two skilled fighters.