Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury got up close and personal today, setting the stage for their heavyweight rematch on Saturday night in Saudi Arabia.
The two champions locked eyes for over 10 minutes in an intense staredown. People tried to separate them, but neither fighter budged. The faceoff showed just how ready these heavyweights are for their upcoming battle.
This fight comes after their first clash in May, which went the full 12 rounds. Usyk won by split decision, handing Fury his first career loss. Fury quickly activated the rematch clause, eager to even the score.
"The Cat" Usyk, Ukraine's heavyweight champ, wants to beat "The Gypsy King" for the second time in a row. Fury, now the challenger, has been laser-focused on his training. He's barely talked to his family, putting everything into his preparation.
Usyk has taken a different approach. He's stayed in close contact with his loved ones during camp.
"Every time, every day, every minute [I want to talk with them]," Usyk said. "It's helping me, because it's my family."
The Ukrainian fighter finds motivation in his personal life, particularly his young daughter.
"This is really motivating to me," Usyk shared, talking about his daughter Maria starting to walk and talk.
While Fury's camp has been all about isolation and focus, Usyk isn't worried about his opponent's methods.
"For me, it doesn't matter what Tyson does. For me, it matters what I do," Usyk stated, emphasizing his focus on his own preparation.
