Oleksandr Usyk to Fury: “My Friend, Greedy Belly, Thank You Very Much”

WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (23–0, 14 KOs) offered his thoughts after being named “Fighter of the Year” at The Ring Awards.

In his speech, Usyk mentioned his opponent, former British champion Tyson Fury (34–2–1, 24 KOs):

“First of all, thank you to my family, my team, and His Excellency. This year has been wonderful for me, for my team, and for my country.

It’s very important. If you can—help people. If you can—give them a smile. Smile. Be happy. I am very grateful to everyone.

I want to say to my opponent, my best friend Tyson Fury: ‘My friend, greedy belly, thank you very much. You’re amazing.’”

The first fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury was also named “Event of the Year,” with the 9th round of that clash earning “Round of the Year.” In 2024, Usyk defeated Fury twice.