Oleksandr Usyk has never been one to follow convention during his iconic career, and it seems his build-up to the rematch with Tyson Fury is no different. Having outpointed his rival last February, the pair return to Saudi Arabia this weekend as the Ukrainian puts his world titles on the line.
The 37-year-old is one of just three boxers in history to unify divisions in two different weight classes, and remains undefeated on his 22-fight professional record.
His latest training camp has taken place in Gandia, Spain, hidden away from the limelight as he bids to cement his status as the best heavyweight of his generation.
And according to the Daily Mail, Usyk has again adopted some unusual methods in his preparation. His gym reportedly has an ‘Undisputed’ banner on the wall, along with images of the former Olympic gold medalist attacking Fury during their first fight.
But that doesn’t begin to tell the story of a camp that has delved way beyond sparring and pounding punch bags. Usyk is well known for his love of sports outside of boxing, a concept he is again seemingly embracing.
He’s reportedly mixing in-ring training with cardio work and tennis. And having utilised the work of sport scientist Jakub Chycki, Usyk has also been in the swimming pool to aid his preparation.
“We have implemented a lot of new things this camp,” who said??. “This is done by Jakub Chycki. We walk on our hands for 15 minutes to build strength. We run, we swim.
“And we sit underneath the water. We have reached the level where we can sit under water for 10 minutes which really helps with my fitness, stamina and breathing during a fight.”
But Usyk is not ignoring the festive period either. He was also claimed to have sung a few Christmas carols during his appearance, with a Santa Claus hat in place, to prove he has not lost his sense of perspective ahead of what could be the defining night of his career.
It’s not unusual for the ex-undisputed cruiserweight king, who was seen serving on the frontline during the initial Russian invasion of Ukraine, to mix business with pleasure. He’s previously showcased his love of juggling, and also plays football regularly at local club level.
For his part, Fury has been uncharacteristically quiet during his own build-up. The Gypsy King is renowned for his mind games ahead of major fights, with him regularly mocking Usyk in the buildup to their first bout, but has seemingly stayed silent this time around
