Is Tyson Fury scared of Oleksandr Usyk fight? Debating rematch clauses, purse disputes & more

Daniel Yanofsky

Is Tyson Fury scared of Oleksandr Usyk fight? Debating rematch clauses, purse disputes & more image

Fight fans are finally close to seeing an undisputed heavyweight title fight. That is, if there are no issues between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk regarding contract negotiations. 

Reports are circulating that the fight will be on April 29 in Wembley Stadium. Fury has even started a social media blackout, which is customary for his preparation for bouts. It also might be about time, as “The Gypsy King’s” posts regarding the fight have left a sour taste in fans mouths. 

First, Fury insisted the fight purse be 70/30 in favor of him (initially 60/40), which Usyk accepted. Then, Fury talked about a rematch clause, nixing that idea. Usyk rebutted that it was Fury’s team who discussed a rematch, not his. Then, Fury started landing insults towards Usyk’s way, with the Ukrainian not giving into Fury’s mind games.

Usyk, the WBA, IBF, WBO, IBO and The Ring heavyweight champion, returned to action in August 2022 after fighting against Russian aggression in Ukraine. He beat Anthony Joshua in a rematch via split decision. Fury retired after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022. Then, the WBC heavyweight champion teased multiple return bouts after just a few months and faced Derek Chisora in December, beating Chisora for the third time in a panned fight. 

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The status of Fury means he has a right to hold an edge in negotiations. However, negotiations can get messy, as rematch clauses or mandatory bouts can get in the way. Think of Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia or the WBA's attempt to have Usyk fight Daniel Dubois. 

What is there to make of the back and forth? With Fury’s recent history of negotiations with Joshua falling through, is Fury protecting his own interests? Does he sound scared, or is he not a good negotiator? A planned fight is just a few weeks away, and no official announcement has been made.

On this episode of Fightin’ Words, The Sporting News' Andreas Hale and Tom Gray discuss these topics and give their thoughts on Fury vs. Usyk. 

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Daniel Yanofsky