Tyson Fury, the undefeated heavyweight champion known as the Gypsy King, has openly blamed his lack of motivation to train on the quality of his opponents. In a recent statement ahead of his bout with Oleksandr Usyk, Fury cited his mediocre enthusiasm for fights against fighters he considers “average” as the reason for not always appearing in top shape.

“The Gypsy King” explained that he finds it difficult to muster the necessary dedication to train rigorously unless he is facing a formidable adversary. This candid admission came as he prepared for a highly anticipated fight against IBF/WBA/WBO heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk in Riyadh—a matchup that has finally invigorated him due to the caliber of his opponent and the significant financial stakes involved.

Despite the staggering $100 million purse provided by his promoter Bob Arum for the Usyk fight, Fury’s approach to training has been inconsistent. This inconsistency was evident in his last fight against Francis Ngannou, where he weighed in at a career-high 277 lbs, despite a hefty $50 million reward. His fluctuating fitness levels have raised concerns about his professionalism and commitment to the sport.

Fury’s selective motivation has not only affected his physical preparation but also his image as a professional athlete. Critics argue that a true champion should maintain peak condition for every fight, regardless of the opponent’s stature. This lack of discipline is a primary reason why some believe Fury may struggle against Usyk, potentially leading to losses in this and subsequent rematches, including a possible future clash with Anthony Joshua.

In his own words, Fury said, “When I have a good dance partner, I can train properly and then have a good fight. It’s hard for me to get up for people I don’t really rate.” He admitted to not feeling “turned on” by matches against fighters like Dereck Chisora, Dillian Whyte, and even Francis Ngannou, suggesting a mismatch in his own expectations versus the challenges presented.

As Fury gears up for what may be one of the defining fights of his career, the boxing community watches closely to see if his renewed motivation translates into a victory against Usyk. Whether this fight will vindicate his selective approach or further expose his vulnerabilities remains to be seen