Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua
Credit: RINGO CHIU,FAYEZ NURELDINE/AFP via Getty Images

Oleksandr Usyk backed Anthony Joshua to beat Tyson Fury if the long-awaited fight takes place. He spoke on Tuesday during a press conference for his WBC title defense against Rico Verhoeven, set for 23 May at the Pyramids of Giza. Usyk has fought both men twice, giving him a rare view of their styles.

When asked about a possible Joshua-Fury bout, he gave a clear answer in front of the media and promoters. His words drew a quick reaction in the room and added fresh attention to a matchup that has not yet been confirmed.

Oleksandr Usyk Gives a Clear Answer on Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury

Usyk kept his response simple when the topic came up.
“If Tyson Fury fights AJ, I stay back and watch as a fan,” he said.

He was then asked, “Who do you think wins that fight? You’ve boxed both of them twice.”

Usyk answered without delay.
“AJ wins. It’s future and the beauty champion, you know?”

The statement came from a fighter who has shared the ring with both heavyweights at the highest level. His answer was direct and left little room for doubt about his view of the matchup.

Reaction in the Room as Eddie Hearn Responds

The comment drew an immediate reaction from those present. Eddie Hearn, who promotes Joshua, responded when asked about Usyk’s view.

“Amazing. Yeah… the table nearly flew off,” Hearn said.

The exchange took place in front of the media during the official event build-up. Usyk’s statement and Hearn’s reaction became a key moment from the press conference. The discussion focused solely on a potential fight between Joshua and Fury, which has been discussed for years but has not yet happened.

Usyk Prepares for Rico Verhoeven in Giza

The press conference centered on Usyk’s upcoming fight with Verhoeven. The bout will take place at the Pyramids of Giza and will stream on DAZN. Usyk enters the fight with a 23-0 record and 14 knockouts.

Verhoeven, known for his success in kickboxing, will compete in a high-profile boxing match. The event has been promoted as a major global show, with the historic setting adding to its appeal.

Usyk’s comments on Joshua and Fury came during the same event, but did not change the focus of his next fight. He remains set to defend his WBC title in May, while the Joshua-Fury bout is still not confirmed.

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Dogli Wilberforce is a boxing writer for Sportsnaut, covering fight news, fighter reactions, and major bouts involving the sport’s ... More about Dogli Wilberforce