British heavyweight Tyson Fury, having returned to the big stage, has officially declared his readiness to replace the reigning world champion Oleksandr Usyk. The "Gypsy King" is prepared to step into the ring against the mandatory challenger for the WBC title, Agit Kabayel, should the Ukrainian boxer decline this defense.
Pressure on the Champion
The situation surrounding the WBC belt has intensified. Oleksandr Usyk, the current titleholder, faces a difficult choice: conduct the mandatory defense against the German Agit Kabayel or officially vacate the belt. This is not the first such scenario in the Ukrainian's career. Previously, Usyk vacated the WBO belt to avoid a fight with Fabio Wardley.
Fury sees an opportunity here. The Brit emphasized that he is once again ranked number one in the WBC. If Usyk decides to vacate the title, Fury is ready to immediately take his place and fight Kabayel.
Plan "B" Instead of Joshua
Fury's return to the boxing world was initially geared towards a massive and financially lucrative bout against Anthony Joshua. However, negotiations for a purely British showdown may drag on or fall through entirely. In that case, Tyson has no intention of wasting time.
"If the rabbit-like one (Usyk) refuses to fight Kabayel, then I will fight him. If for some reason the fight with Joshua does not happen, then I will take the chance to become a three-time world champion in a fight with Kabayel. And we will hold this bout at Wembley," Fury stated.
History of the Rivalry and New Intrigues
Interestingly, Agit Kabayel sought a fight with Fury back in 2020. At that time, the Brit was forced to focus on his third bout against Deontay Wilder, and the meeting did not take place. Now, several years later, circumstances have aligned so that this fight could happen in the near future.
Parallel to the boxing intrigues, Fury is fueling interest in his career through collaboration with UFC boss Dana White and his new boxing conglomerate, Zuffa Boxing. The parties have announced a "huge statement" that is expected to be made soon.
The ultimate fate of Tyson Fury's next fight now depends entirely on the actions of Oleksandr Usyk. While the Ukrainian boxer has not made a final decision regarding the mandatory defense, the Brit is keeping a finger on the pulse, ready to replace the champion on the legendary Wembley stage at any moment.