Oleksandr Usyk has already accomplished an incredible career, as both a professional and an amateur. Although it is unclear how many fights the Ukrainian has left, boxing fans will be sure to enjoy him while he lasts.
Although the likes of Lewis Crocker think Usyk should retire, Joseph Parker is eager to get a fight with the undisputed champion.
There are boxing fans who believe that there is no current heavyweight that can trouble Usyk. Although Moses Itauma is a rising prospect, he has yet to be tested by an elite heavyweight.
In terms of how Usyk would have fared against some of the greatest heavyweights of all time, one former opponent has had his say.
Tony Bellew believes that Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson could cause Oleksandr Usyk problems
Tony Bellew fought Oleksandr Usyk in 2018, where the Englishman was stopped in round eight of their cruiserweight title fight.
The fight against Bellew was Usyk’s last before moving to the heavyweight division, where he unified the titles twice.
Speaking on his former opponent, Bellew was full of praise for the 24-0 star. However, when asked how Usyk would fare against greats of the past, it wasn’t a clear answer from ‘Bomber’.
When asked who could have troubled Usyk in the history of the heavyweight division, Bellew said, “A prime Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, 100%.”
In terms of why he feels Muhammad Ali would get the better of Usyk, Bellew explained, “That style, that elusiveness, that speed. He’s [Usyk’s] not as quick as Muhammad Ali at heavyweight.”
The former cruiserweight champion added, “There’s never been a heavyweight with hand speed like Muhammad Ali.”
In terms of ‘Iron Mike’, Bellew was seemingly less convinced of Tyson’s chances against Usyk. “Mike Tyson in his prime was vicious and ruthless. But, I think he does to Mike Tyson what he did to Murat Gassiev. I think he just peppers him, stays away.”
Tony Bellew gives opinion on Oleksandr Usyk versus the Klitschko brothers
Bellew was asked for his thoughts on how a potential fight would play out between Usyk and Vitali Klitschko in an all-Ukrainian affair.
“He’s a big strong man. But not good enough, technically,” Bellew said about Vitali Klitschko.
The Englishman then added, “Wladimir has a far better chance than Vitali. Because Wladimir is technically far better. Vitali is the powerhouse.”
However, Bellew did not seem to think Wladimir Klitschko would get the win over Usyk, either.
