In their first encounter, Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk triumphed over Britain’s Tyson Fury by a split decision on May 18 at the Royal Arena in Riyadh, earning the title of absolute boxing champion. A rematch is scheduled for tonight at 11 p.m. However, the IBF title won’t be up for grabs, as Usyk failed to fulfill the 45-day defense deadline, which has now passed to British heavyweight Daniel Dubois.

Nevertheless, interest in the major boxing event in Saudi Arabia remains high, with many people, excluding Usyk’s camp and fans, hoping for a trilogy after their initial bout!

– A third fight? On December 21, I’m going to defeat Usyk and then we’ll have another matchup. It will be a trilogy, – stated former world champion Fury, who faced his only career loss against Usyk in their previous match.

Unlike the prelude to their first fight, the “Gypsy King” was less talkative this time. At the official training session, which he abruptly concluded, he directed his focus toward Usyk and those present at the Royal Arena:

– All the chatter is done. I’m here to bring pain to Usyk and put on a great show for you. During the stare-down, we were silent. There’s no need for idle talk since we know it holds no significance. What matters is what happens when we meet in the ring tonight, – Fury pointed out.

This time, unlike in the first match when Fury underestimated Usyk, he has approached his training with utmost dedication. Insider reports indicate that he hasn’t spoken to his wife in weeks and has recruited 191-centimeter-tall Zhan Kosobucki from Kazakhstan as a sparring partner.

Usyk has also been in serious training, showcasing that he can walk on his hands for 15 minutes and dive underwater for up to 10 minutes, ensuring he can manage his breath amid the British powerhouse’s pressure.

– You can expect a similar style from me as in the first fight, but there will definitely be some surprises. It’s critical because this is a tremendous opportunity for me and my country, and for the younger generation who look up to me and Tyson. My aim is to be remembered in 15 years as the boxer who defeated Fury twice, – expressed the champion, noting Fury’s modified approach:

– Tyson is talking far less than before. He may have changed his tactic, but honestly, I’m indifferent to his words. I only have respect for him, – Usyk remarked, acknowledging the silence during their stare-down.

Due to the rematch with Usyk, Fury has forfeited the chance to defend his IBF title since the deadline was missed, and as of July, he is no longer its holder. Since May 18, however, he has been recognized as the first absolute champion since Lennox Lewis defeated Evander Holyfield in 1999.

– We had a rematch clause from our first encounter as well; I can’t discuss earnings, but it’s clear that both of us have specific additional agreements with the Saudi organizers. There’s an understanding not to disclose figures – concluded the Ukrainian.

Reports from “The Sportster” suggest that the earnings will be divided 60:40 in favor of Usyk, guaranteeing him $114 million while Fury is set to receive $76 million. These figures exclude any revenue from pay-per-view and other rights. In their first match, Fury secured 70 percent of the total purse and earned $105 million without additional income from the bout.

Moreover, promoter Frank Warren had already indicated that a third fight was a possibility prior to their initial bout.

– If Tyson wins, there will be a third fight. That’s stipulated in the contract, unless either fighter retires – Warren explained.

Additionally, Turki Al-Sheikh, head of the Saudi fund organizing these major events, disclosed that the fight will be monitored by artificial intelligence.

– For the first time, an AI referee will oversee the match, ensuring no biases or human errors. This innovative addition won’t influence the official figures from the three judges, and will be unveiled during this monumental bout – announced Al-Sheikh.

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