Not only have fans noticed Oleksandr Usyk’s bulk this week ahead of his rematch with Anthony Joshua, his punching power also appears to have increased dramatically due to the weight gain.
The Ukrainian southpaw seems to have finally made it to the heavyweight division after some suggested he was too small and never had the power to handle some of the biggest punchers in the world.
Usyk was criticized when he moved up from cruiserweight, following his lackluster wins over Chazz Witherspoon and Derek Chisora, with fans believing the fighter should have won both more easily.
The champion showed that precision and timing can be equally useful when he beat Anthony Joshua last year to win three heavyweight titles.
Clips shared by Sky Sports of the eccentric Usyk, famous for his obscure and alternative training methods, have shown his muscular capacity and striking power.
Footage showed Usyk breaking the heavy bag during training camp for his title defense against Joshua on August 20.
Oleksandr Usyk 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 the heavy bag! It is ready for August 20th 💪@usykaa | #UsykJoshua2pic.twitter.com/FuU2GKguYv
— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) August 10, 2022
Fans have tipped the defending champion to finish off the returning Briton, inside the 12-round limit this time, ending their rivalry.
One fan commented under Sky Sports’ Twitter post:
“Go cut Anthony Joshua. Easy night’s work.”
In other words:
“If Usyk puts it on AJ like that, AJ won’t be able to handle it.”
The former World Boxing Super Series winner and undisputed cruiserweight champion will be looking to demonstrate his new-found power when he takes on Joshua at ‘Rage On The Red Sea’ in Jeddah live on Sky Sports Box Office.