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Usyk is one of the sport’s most decorated fighters, an Olympic gold medallist who has unified both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions across 24 unbeaten fights.<\/p>\n
On paper, a rise on the scales may prompt questions about why he is operating outside his most effective weight, particularly against a boxing novice. <\/p>\n
Fury’s conditioning in his 2023 bout with Francis Ngannou, when he was dropped and laboured to a narrow points win over the MMA fighter, is often cited as an example of how preparation and focus can come under scrutiny in crossover fights.<\/p>\n
In Usyk’s case, however, his approach and discipline have remained consistent throughout his amateur and professional career across weight classes, with the Ukrainian considered one of the sport’s ultimate professionals.<\/p>\n
He said at Thursday’s news conference that when a stoppage opportunity presents itself, he will take it.<\/p>\n
The increase on the scales could therefore suggest he is looking to carry more power into the contest and planning a quick victory.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n