The anticipation for an undisputed heavyweight champion in the boxing world may have to be put on hold yet again. Tyson Fury, the WBC and lineal champ, has recently expressed his disinterest in a superfight against IBF, WBO, and WBA champion Oleksandr Usyk. While Fury’s remarks during a Thursday press conference should be taken with a grain of salt considering his unpredictable nature, the fighter did make it clear that his focus has shifted towards a different direction. Fury revealed his desire to step into the ring with Jon Jones, an iconic figure in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).
Francis Ngannou, a former UFC heavyweight champion who is relatively new to the sport of boxing, is set to take on Fury later this year. However, Fury has already set his sights beyond Ngannou and expressed his interest in facing Jones next. The possibility of a matchup between Jones and Fury emerged after podcaster Joe Rogan sparked a discussion about who would come out victorious in a fight between the two athletes. Now, Fury seems determined to test his skills against two MMA legends consecutively.
Trading Boxing for MMA
Fury made it clear that becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion of boxing was never his priority. In a rhetorical question, he mocked the idea of pursuing this title, stating that it had always been “some little bitch’s dream.” Alongside his disinterest in boxing, Fury indicated that any potential fight with Usyk would only happen if the latter agreed to earn significantly less money. The heavyweight champion then referred to Usyk, Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and Andy Ruiz Jr. as “little bitches” for turning down the opportunity to fight him. Despite his harsh words, Fury believes that his future lies in different endeavors.
While Fury’s decision to pursue fights in MMA may seem perplexing, it signals a shift in his career objectives. Moving away from the traditional boxing scene, Fury is looking to challenge himself against opponents with little to no experience in the ring. However, questions remain about whether these matchups with UFC greats can truly be considered “bigger” or “better” things for Fury’s career trajectory. Nevertheless, many boxing enthusiasts would prefer to see elite heavyweight boxers face off against one another to determine an undisputed champion once and for all.
Tyson Fury’s announcement regarding his disinterest in a superfight against Oleksandr Usyk has left the boxing world waiting for an undisputed heavyweight champion. Fury’s inclination towards MMA is evident as he prepares to face Francis Ngannou, while simultaneously expressing his desire to fight Jon Jones next. Fury’s nonchalant attitude towards the boxing title suggests a shifting focus in his career priorities. Though the idea of Fury crossing over into the realm of MMA may be intriguing, fans and pundits alike yearn for a true display of heavyweight boxing supremacy by witnessing clashes between the division’s top contenders.
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