The highly anticipated rematch between **Tyson Fury** and **Oleksandr Usyk** is set to take place on **Saturday, December 21, 2024**, in **Saudi Arabia**. This bout is particularly significant as it presents Fury with a chance for vengeance. He is eager to reclaim the **WBO, WBC, and WBA heavyweight titles** that Usyk won from him in their first encounter back in May.
During the first fight, Usyk triumphed over Fury by decision, marking his ascent to being the undisputed heavyweight champion for the first time in the four-belt era. Notably, Usyk has since vacated the **IBF title** ahead of this rematch. This consensus among boxing fans, analysts, and commentators highlights the importance of Fury’s upcoming challenge; not only is he facing the man who handed him his sole defeat, but he is also up against a formidable undefeated champion in Usyk, who is currently 37 years old.
According to various sources in the boxing community, Fury enters this match as a slight underdog, but his stature and skills could potentially shift the odds in his favor. The bout will be available for audiences to follow live via BBC Sounds as well as the **BBC Sport website** and app starting at **20:00 GMT** on the match day, raising the question: can Fury achieve his goal of becoming a three-time heavyweight world champion, or will Usyk maintain his unbeaten streak?
A diverse range of predictions has emerged from the boxing fraternity, as experts and former champions weigh in on potential outcomes for this pivotal rematch. For instance, **British heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley** noted that while Fury has the capability to adjust his game plan to defeat Usyk, he questioned whether Fury’s ambition remains intact. Meanwhile, **former undisputed champion Lennox Lewis** strongly backs Fury’s chances, believing he can utilize his size and needs to be more aggressive in throwing punches than in their first bout.
In a similar vein, welterweight champion **Natasha Jonas** expressed optimism for Fury’s performance, believing that he will be “more on it” this time around. However, fellow heavyweight **Lawrence Okolie** observed that while Usyk’s prior victory adds to his formidable reputation, Fury could still impose a more aggressive style, suggesting that he should exploit his size and strength rather than attempt to outbox Usyk, which has historically proven challenging.
Despite this, some predictions weigh heavily in Usyk’s favor, with heavyweight **Frazer Clarke** admitting that while Fury can potentially turn the tables, he leans towards an Usyk victory. Furthermore, light-welterweight **Jack Catterall** expressed skepticism about Fury’s ability to overcome Usyk, acknowledging his adaptability and skill.
Interestingly, opinions vary widely, and several fighters stand divided. **American fighter Regis Prograis** reiterates his belief in Fury, citing Usyk’s impressive resume, which includes notable wins over **Anthony Joshua**. However, others, such as promoter **Eddie Hearn**, have built significant rapport with both fighters yet find themselves favoring Fury for this match.
As we approach this intriguing rematch, it’s evident that while speculation thrives, the unpredictable nature of boxing keeps fans on edge. Will Tyson Fury deliver in this crucial rematch to soundly defeat Oleksandr Usyk, or will Usyk’s tactical acumen continue to reign supreme in the heavyweight division? Boxing enthusiasts eagerly await the fight, which promises to be a significant event not just for the fighters but also for the sport at large.
