Former undisputed heavyweight champion of the world Lennox Lewis knows plenty about big title fights such as next week’s Usyk vs Tyson Fury rematch.
What a fight it promises to be.
Speaking to IFL today Lennox Lewis said:
“Interviewer: Lennox, do you believe the winner of this fight deserves a spot on that list?
Lennox Lewis: Absolutely. Both fighters have worked hard to get to this point. It’s going to be a tough fight, both mentally and physically. They’ll push each other to their limits. Usyk hasn’t lost a fight, and he’ll want to keep that record intact. Both men have a lot at stake, making this a significant mental and physical challenge.Interviewer: Michael Moorer recently predicted that Usyk will stop Tyson Fury in the 10th round. What are your thoughts on that prediction?
Lennox Lewis: Wow, that’s a bold prediction. I think it’s going to be an explosive fight. After their first bout, I went back and watched my fight with Evander Holyfield to compare. The difference between that fight and Fury vs. Usyk is that one fighter might have been more focused than the other. Fury will need to bring his A-game. He knows what’s at stake and will likely come in heavier to prepare for a grueling contest.Interviewer: There’s been speculation about Wladimir Klitschko possibly returning for a rematch with Fury if Fury wins. What’s your take on that?
Lennox Lewis: Klitschko has bigger concerns right now with the situation in his country. I don’t see him returning to the ring for this. At a recent dinner, we joked about comebacks, but I doubt he’s serious about it.Interviewer: How do you think Tyson Fury will handle the mental aspect of coming back from his first professional loss?
Lennox Lewis: Fury is resilient. He’s an up-and-down fighter who knows how to bounce back. To win, he needs to dominate at least eight of the 12 rounds. He’s always risen to challenges, as we saw when he took on Deontay Wilder after Anthony Joshua declined the fight.Interviewer: After the first fight, there were concerns about too many voices in Fury’s corner. He’s decided to stick with the same team. Do you think that’s the right call?
Lennox Lewis: If he’s comfortable with the team, it’s his choice. While some might see it as a lot of noise, Fury knows how to filter the advice and focus on what’s important. His dad’s voice will always stand out, and SugarHill Steward is a great trainer who brings Kronk Gym’s expertise. It’s a solid mix.Interviewer: Historically, fighters often win rematches. Should people favor Fury or Usyk here?
Lennox Lewis: Both are exceptional boxers. Usyk is elusive and hard to hit, while Fury has the size and skill to impose his will. Fury might come in heavier this time, which could help him wear Usyk down. It’s going to be a battle of wits and styles.Interviewer: Some fans found it odd that Fury showed so much respect to Usyk in public interactions before the rematch. What do you make of that?
Lennox Lewis: That’s psychological warfare. Fury is trying to disarm Usyk mentally, but Usyk is smart and won’t fall for it. Both men know this fight is serious business.Interviewer: The uppercut seemed effective for Fury in the first fight. How important will that be this time?
Lennox Lewis: The uppercut was key, and Usyk is vulnerable to it. If I were fighting Usyk, I’d focus on a strong uppercut strategy. Both fighters will also need to address body shots—Usyk might seem vulnerable there, but he’s likely worked to strengthen his defense.Interviewer: In round nine of the first fight, Fury relied on the ropes to stay up. What did that show about his will as a fighter?
Lennox Lewis: Fury showed incredible determination. He was clearly hurt but used the ropes effectively. The referee did an excellent job by letting the fight continue instead of stopping it prematurely.Interviewer: If Usyk wins, how do you see it happening?
Lennox Lewis: If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Usyk should stick to his game plan but elevate it further—stay elusive, land the most punches, and avoid Fury’s uppercuts.Interviewer: And if Fury wins?
Lennox Lewis: Fury needs to establish his jab, use his size, rough Usyk up, and apply constant pressure. He’s a versatile fighter who can adapt, and I expect him to use that to his advantage.Interviewer: You were a master of rematches. What was your mindset going into them?
Lennox Lewis: For me, losing was like falling off a horse—I had to get back on and hold on tighter. I analyzed my mistakes and worked harder to ensure they didn’t happen again.Interviewer: Do you think Fury left the first fight knowing exactly what he needed to change?
Lennox Lewis: Absolutely. He knows what went wrong and what he has to fix. This time, he’ll be more prepared.This rematch has all the makings of a classic—two elite fighters, both determined to prove themselves at the highest level. It’s going to be an incredible fight.”
Interesting Lewis thinks it is the uppercut for Fury and staying fast on his feet for Usyk.
The latter appears to be training even harder and may come in lighter, Usyk will be built for mobility and speed most likely this time, even more so.
He knows Fury will be out for blood this month.
What a fight that awaits, roll on.
