A highly anticipated heavyweight bout is set to unfold in Saudi Arabia on February 17, marking a significant development in the world of boxing. The previous matches featuring Anthony Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk served as a prelude to the upcoming events.
Scheduled for December 23, Anthony Joshua will face Otto Wallin, while Deontay Wilder takes on Joseph Parker on the same night. However, the highlight is reserved for February 17, as Fury and Usyk gear up to vie for all the heavyweight belts. The announcement of this clash, made on Thursday, featured a spirited declaration from the Gypsy King, who was enthusiastically supported by none other than Sylvester Stallone.
In addressing his upcoming opponent, Fury boldly stated, “When you sleep at night, [Usyk], you’ll be thinking about me for the next eight weeks, because I’ll punch you in the face.”
The atmosphere was intensified by the presence of Sylvester Stallone, introduced with the iconic Rocky theme.
Fury further responded to critics, asserting, “This is for all the people who criticize me: suck my balls. I don’t care about anything you say. Do you know why? First, you’re not rich like me. Second, you are not handsome like me. Third, you’re not heavyweight champions of the world, guess who? Like me!”
In reflecting on the journey to this moment, Fury addressed skeptics: “When this fight couldn’t go through, it seemed like everyone was very happy because it wasn’t signed. Now they got what they wanted, let them enjoy it; this is like an anti-climax. People said it wouldn’t happen, that I was afraid, that I was running away. What has happened now? I’m about to make another £100 million.”