Oleksandr Usyk has shared his thoughts on Tyson Fury‘s display against Arslanbek Makhmudov.
This past weekend saw Fury make his return to the ring after not competing since his two defeats to Usyk in 2024, taking on imposing Russian Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Fury was comfortable throughout the contest as he claimed a one-sided unanimous decision win, but certain onlookers believe ‘The Gypsy King’ showed signs of rustiness as he took part in his first fight in 16 months.
Usyk himself has now weighed in on his former rival’s performance, telling The Ring that he thought it was a good victory for Fury.
“Tyson’s win is good. I watched the first six rounds. I remember maybe fourth/fifthround, Makhmudov punched Tyson and I say ‘be careful, woah woah Tyson hands up please.’ Congrats. Great. Good [come]back.”
Some fans have criticised Fury for being unable to stop Makhmudov inside the distance, and in a separate interview with The Stomping Ground, Usyk also admitted that he wanted to see that happen.
Tyson’s win is good. It’s a win. It’s not loss. Maybe a lot of people want Tyson to knock him out. Me too. 12 rounds. Tyson win. Congrats.”
Fury is now hoping to finally secure a showdown with long-term rival and countryman Anthony Joshua, with ‘AJ’ also having suffered two losses to Usyk earlier in his career.
Having taken on both men, the Ukrainian has made his prediction for how a potential bout between ‘The Gypsy King’ and Joshua would go.