Team Usyk, the camp of Oleksandr Usyk, has raised concerns about the ring canvas ahead of the highly anticipated undisputed heavyweight title fight against Tyson Fury this Saturday. The complaint, made just two days before the fight in Riyadh, revolves around the seam joining the canvas sections together.
A member of Team Usyk expressed dissatisfaction during the open workout, citing the potential trip hazard posed by the seam on the canvas. The identical canvas used in previous heavyweight fights in Saudi Arabia and the UK, including Usyk’s victories over Anthony Joshua, will be used on fight night.
British heavyweight Frazer Clarke, who is on the ground in Saudi Arabia with Sky Sports, shared his observations, stating that he did not notice any issues with the canvas during his time in the ring. He speculated whether the complaint could be a tactic or mind game, but emphasized that the neutral territory provides no advantage for either fighter.
The complaint adds to the drama of the week in Saudi Arabia, which began with an incident involving Tyson Fury’s father, John Fury. Despite the concerns raised by Team Usyk, the stage is set for a historic showdown between Usyk and Fury for the undisputed heavyweight world championship, with the first champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999 set to be crowned. The fight is scheduled to take place this Saturday, with coverage starting on Sky Sports Box Office from 4pm UK time.