Teddy Atlas on Usyk: “I’ve Seen Too Many Sad Endings”

Renowned American boxing trainer Teddy Atlas explained why he believes undisputed Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk should consider retirement.

“I’ve seen too many sad endings. Usyk should retire… I’ve seen too many tragic finishes. I saw Muhammad Ali. I saw other guys who didn’t get the same attention, but watching it was just as painful.

I want to see a happy ending to this great story. This movie about Usyk has inspired so many people in different fields outside of boxing, and that’s what I want. I know it probably won’t happen. I know that.

I’m not saying he must retire. I’m not saying he shouldn’t continue. He’s still in his prime in many ways. I understand all of that. I just know my field — one of the most unforgiving in the world,” Atlas said.

On July 19, Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round to become undisputed world champion for the third time.

In July, the WBO ordered Usyk to defend his title against interim champion Joseph Parker, but his team requested to postpone the negotiation deadline due to a back injury.

Photo: inkl