Tyson Fury has warned Anthony Joshua about Oleksandr Usyk ahead of their August rematch in Saudi Arabia, saying that the Ukrainian to beat Joshua in even more convincing fashion this time around.
Joshua was beaten by Usyk via unanimous decision last September, the second defeat of his career and Fury has been speaking about the undefeated Usyk predicting a win for the 36-year-old. Fury is rumoured to be in line to fight the winner of this fight in a huge unification contest later this year and will be keeping a close eye on proceedings.
Joshua has appointed a new trainer, with American Robert Garcia joining him for the fight as he seeks to reclaim his WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight world titles.. However, Fury does not see this as enough for AJ, predicting that Usyk will once again prove victorious.
READ MORE: Tyson Fury makes huge Anthony Joshua claim ahead of Oleksandr Usyk rematch
Speaking to Pitch Boxing ahead of the contest, Fury said: "I just think Usyk's too cute for him. Too smart, too quick and a southpaw.
"I think with Robert Garcia trying to train him to go on the front foot and be aggressive will only enable Usyk to land more often." He added."I just don't see it but then again, what do I know.
"In heavyweight boxing it only takes one punch. It wasn't a complete landslide last time, Usyk had a lot of marks on his face he was cut up.
"He's not hard to hit, Usyk, he's right there in front of you so obviously Joshua can land a big punch on him."
The fight has been delayed after Usyk travelled to Ukraine to help with the war effort in his home country in the spring following the Russian invasion. This is a factor which Fury thinks could be decisive in the fight.
"Anyone can win a fight as we've seen many, many times. It's a good time to beat Usyk now because he's been at war for however long. If ever he was going to be off his ball, now is the time." He explained.
"I just think that Usyk's too good of a boxer for AJ and I don't think AJ has got the ability to pressurise him for 12 rounds, drag him into a dog fight and knock him out.
"You have to be an elite, special human being for that and I don't think Joshua possesses that will to win to do that. He's happy to come second place, he's too easily happy to come second position. If your willingly settled for second, say no more."
