Oleksandr Usyk has responded to Tyson Fury’s training efforts for their upcoming rematch on December 21 with a touch of humor. Usyk, who secured his status as the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion after a split decision victory over Fury, dominated their first encounter despite Fury’s strong middle rounds. Usyk nearly finished Fury in the ninth round, but the referee’s standing eight count prevented a knockout.
Fury, who has yet to fully accept the loss, has claimed Usyk’s victory was influenced by the war in Ukraine and dismissed Usyk as an amateur boxer. The upcoming rematch, however, will not be for the undisputed title as Usyk has vacated the IBF belt. Fury has been ramping up his training, recently sharing footage of himself running and declaring, “December 21st, Usyk, you’re on notice. Come on.”
In contrast, Usyk has taken a more relaxed approach since his win. He is currently starring in the film *Smashing Machine* alongside The Rock, playing Ukrainian kickboxer Igor ‘Ice Cold’ Vovchanchyn. Usyk has made notable impressions on set, with visits from Dwayne Johnson and Snoop Dogg adding to the excitement.
