Dave Allen has weighed in on the potential undisputed fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, picking a winner from his experience in the gym with both of them.
‘The White Rhino’, who recently announced a lowkey return to the ring, has been a sparring partner of Fury in the past and, more recently, Usyk. In fact, it was a gym session with the Ukrainian champion that helped along his decision to step away from the sport in 2020.
He spoke to Boxing UK, first discussing the idea of returning to Usyk’s camp to prepare for the four-belt clash.
“They did tell me if they fought Fury I would be brought over because stylistically I’m perfect for Fury. So that tells you how I box in the gym compared to how I fight in the ring.
So, if the fight happens that will be a couple of interesting phone calls – one from them to me and me to Tyson saying ‘I’m going to go to Ukraine, mate, if you don’t mind.’”
Onto his prediction, and Allen does pick a winner whilst noting that both are special fighters. The fan-favourite from Doncaster has Fury winning due to the size difference – something many fans and pundits point to in their own breakdown of the bout.
“I think Fury wins to be honest. I think he’s too big. I sparred Usyk and, as brilliant as he was, he’s not a big unit. He’s not physically the strongest man in the world. I think Tyson would get to him.”
“They’re both outstanding. Two best talents of this generation I think, as heavyweights. As special as Usyk is, Tyson, being around him as I have over the years, he’s just a special fella really. He has vibes of other special athletes that can just do everything.
Usyk is probably in the same bracket, but can’t get away from the size difference, cause it is massive.”
Talks are ongoing for the fight to be staged in the spring, with positive updates from both sides. The first week in March has been targeted by team Usyk, and the Middle East is likely to play host given the sums of money involved.