OLEKSANDR USYK doesn’t plan on hanging around for much longer – despite being on the brink of making history.
The undefeated Ukrainian is on the cusp of becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in over 25 years and the first in the four-belt era.
All that stands behind the 36-year-old slick southpaw and undisputed glory is Brit man-mountain Tyson Fury – the owner of the prestigious and historic WBC title.
But fighting into his 40s like the greats of yesteryear isn’t something the former undisputed cruiserweight king fances.
Usyk’s promoter Alexander Krassuyk told Betway: “He’s 36 now and still has three years to go at his best.
“The only issue or concern we have is the health issue so that could be a problem.”
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Krassuyk, however, reckons his good friend could continue fighting if his body doesn’t betray him.
He said: “If his body is still ready to fight, then I don’t think he’s going to quit.
“Let me tell you, I have been dealing with Oleksandr Usyk since his first professional fight in 2013 and we have been very close with each other over the last 10 years.
“But he is a young kid in his soul and has never experienced retirement or really imagine how hard it is for a fighter to retire from boxing.”
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Usyk’s long-overdue showdown with Fury – which was initially slated for April – takes place in Saudi Arabia on February 17.
Both men will have to train over the festive period and battle the urge not to enjoy extra servings of Turkey.
Fury, however, will also have to battle the urge to hit his local boozer for a good old-fashioned knees-up.
The Gypsy King said: “It wasn’t my ideal date.
“I wanted the 23rd because then I could have had a good Christmas and now I am going to have a s*** Christmas.
“I can’t go and get 4st heavier now, like I would like to.
“This date will keep me in shape and give me something to think about but it’s only a few weeks after so not too bad.
“I will still have a proper Christmas day with the family, it’s not that serious that I have to cancel Christmas is it?
“Me and Joe Parker usually go to the boozer next door, while the dinner is getting made, and have 15 pints.
“But this time he can do it and I can’t because he will be celebrating his win on the 23rd and I will still be in camp.”
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
