In an unexpected turn of events, the highly anticipated match for the heavyweight title between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk has been officially rebooked for May 18 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This announcement was confirmed by Ariel Helwani in an interview.
This happened after the recent setback when Fury sustained a significant cut during training, forcing the postponement of the initially scheduled bout on Feb 17.
News of Fury’s injury spread quickly, causing concern among eager combat sports fans. The two-year-long anticipation for this heavyweight clash added to the uncertainty, leaving many wondering if the bout would be rescheduled at all. Usyk’s team even contemplated urging for the stripping of Fury’s WBC belt.
Fortunately, both camps reached an agreement to reschedule the match. This offered a new glimmer of hope for fans. The confirmed date for the showdown is now May 18, and the location remains Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
This decision was made public as Fury and Usyk shared insights with Helwani during an interview on Saturday.
In a surprising development, a $10 million pullout clause has been introduced for this rescheduled match. This clause ensures financial compensation in case either Fury or Usyk is compelled to withdraw from the bout.
According to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, if either boxer pulls out of the May 18 meeting the other will receive a guaranteed $10 million. This unexpected provision adds a layer of security for both contenders, making sure they are compensated should unforeseen circumstances disrupt the match once again.
Fury is currently the slight betting favorite in this heavyweight clash. He asserted his position as the A-side during the interview. Fury not only discussed the cut he suffered during training but also shared some pointed words for Usyk’s team.
The three-month delay in the schedule has given both boxers additional time to prepare mentally and physically for what promises to be a monumental showdown in the heavyweight division.