After delivering the first defeat of Tyson Fury’s career in a thrilling match in Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk has provided his verdict on the attributes of his heavyweight rivals. The Ukrainian champion used an unusual analogy to contrast Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, even referring to Fury as a “greedy belly.” Usyk’s victory in May crowned him as the first unified world heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis.

In a captivating contest in Riyadh, Usyk and Fury battled fiercely, with the Ukrainian prevailing by a split points decision after the bout went the distance. Fury’s previously unblemished professional record was tarnished, particularly after a brutal series of jabs from Usyk in Round 9 left Fury struggling on the ropes. Although Fury was saved by the bell and managed to limp to the final round, the judges ultimately awarded the fight to Usyk.

This victory allowed Usyk to claim the WBC belt, making him the first fighter in the four-belt era to unify the heavyweight division. Reflecting on his triumph and comparing his rivals, Usyk shared his thoughts during an interview on the “Three Knockdown Rule” podcast.

“Anthony Joshua has classy boxing,” Usyk began, before moving on to Fury. “Greedy Belly, my friend Tyson Fury. It’s like sparkling water, when you open it without shaking it’s good. If you shake it, it [blows]. Sparkling water is Tyson Fury and still water is Anthony Joshua.”

He further commented on Fury’s physical attributes, noting, “Tyson’s arms are like two meters, like a rope.” Despite acknowledging Fury’s physical prowess, Usyk did not consider him his most formidable opponent. “I would say toughest fight, yes, but I think biggest punch, no. Derek Chisora, very tough guy. With Derek, I don’t remember which hand it was, but I would block it and it would be like a baseball bat. It was very dangerous.”

Despite his victory, Usyk expressed respect for Fury, describing him as a “great fighter” and a “great man.” He added, “A lot of people say he’s a clown. It’s playing. Not me, but maybe a different opponent who doesn’t have tunnel vision.”

Looking ahead, Usyk and Fury are set to face each other once again in a highly anticipated rematch slated for December 21. With Fury eager to avenge the first loss of his career, the upcoming contest promises to be another thrilling chapter in the heavyweight division.