Tyson Fury, the WBC and lineal heavyweight champion, has recently faced criticism for not taking on top competition in the boxing ring. Despite negotiations to fight heavyweight titlist Oleksandr Usyk and former titlist Anthony Joshua, both matches fell through for various reasons. However, Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC boss, has come to Fury’s defense, emphasizing that the undefeated fighter has been ready and willing to take on formidable opponents. Instead, Fury is preparing for a novelty fight against former UFC great Francis Ngannou. While this fight may be highly lucrative, it raises questions about Fury’s choice of opponents.
Mauricio Sulaiman has played a significant role in helping Tyson Fury deal with the accusations thrown at him. While it may seem that Sulaiman should be preparing Fury for his upcoming fight with Ngannou, his focus has been on defending the Englishman against criticism. Sulaiman acknowledges that Fury was not able to fight Usyk last December due to unpreparedness and subsequent scheduling conflicts. Similarly, negotiations with Joshua also did not materialize, despite Fury’s willingness to step into the ring. Sulaiman is adamant that the blame should not fall on Fury, as he has been ready and waiting for high-profile fights.
Despite the controversy surrounding Fury’s opponent selection, Sulaiman expresses genuine enthusiasm for the upcoming fight between Fury and Ngannou. He believes that crossover events, such as this one, bring respect to the sport of boxing and adhere to the rules. Sulaiman draws parallels to the highly-anticipated bout between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather, emphasizing that monumental events like these bring attention and spotlight to the sport. While some may question Fury’s decision to face a boxing novice rather than a mandatory contender, Sulaiman believes that it is not necessary to rush a mandatory fight and risk doing a disservice to the sport.
No Mandatory Contender for Fury
Sulaiman clarifies that there is currently no mandatory contender for Fury to face in the heavyweight division. The WBC had ordered a match between Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz Jr, with the winner becoming a sensational mandatory contender. However, this fight did not come to fruition, removing any obligation for Fury to face a mandatory opponent. Sulaiman firmly asserts that Fury is the best heavyweight in the division, highlighting his willingness to fight top contenders like Usyk, Joshua, and Ruiz Jr. Unfortunately, circumstances have prevented Fury from landing the fight that the fans desire.
The Road Ahead for Fury
Despite the challenges and criticisms faced by Tyson Fury, his upcoming matchup against Francis Ngannou on October 28th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, presents an opportunity for him to showcase his skills once again. While some may question Fury’s choice of opponents, it is important to acknowledge his desire for significant fights and his ongoing commitment to the sport. As Fury continues to navigate the world of boxing, the WBC’s support remains crucial in shaping his career and ensuring that he challenges the best competitors in the heavyweight division.
Tyson Fury’s recent challenges and criticisms have prompted the WBC and its president, Mauricio Sulaiman, to come to his defense. Despite the failure to secure fights against top opponents like Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua, Fury’s readiness and willingness to face them should not be overlooked. While Fury’s choice to fight Francis Ngannou may be viewed as a novelty matchup, Sulaiman believes that such events bring respect to the sport. It is clear that Fury longs for significant fights, but circumstances have impeded his progress. As he prepares for his upcoming fight, Fury remains committed to proving himself as the best heavyweight in the division and regaining the support and enthusiasm of the fans.
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