Oleksandr Usyk: I will help Anthony Joshua beat Tyson Fury

From Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed to Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward, boxing has long shown that rivals can become allies. Creed helped engineer Balboa’s victory against Clubber Lang; Ward then attempted to return Gatti to his past glories, now Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua may be about to do the same.

Joshua recently revealed that he will be joining Usyk’s training camp in preparation for his eight-round crossover fight with Jake Paul on December 19. Joshua will not have Ben Davison in his corner this time, although the identity of his full-time replacement remains unknown.

If Joshua comes to fruition as expected, attention will once again shift to a long-awaited British blockbuster starring Tyson Fury. The shelf life of the fight may be diminishing, but public demand and media momentum would almost certainly increase if negotiations resumed.

Usyk has already shown the plan to beat Fury in their back-to-back fights. The Ukrainian’s elusiveness, speed and precise shots nearly stopped the ‘Gypsy King’ in their first meeting, and although the rematch was closer, Usyk still emerged victorious.

Speaking to Boxing King Media, Usyk was asked if he would consider helping Joshua prepare for Fury if the fight was successful. The champion was clear in his response.

“Yeah, I’m helping him.”

His translator then added an additional point.

“Two to one.”

Regarding his collaboration with “AJ”, the Ukrainian received a lot of praise.

“I like this guy, because this guy is smart. I think this guy has a really big heart. He really loves boxing.”

Finally, Usyk said the process was about adding to his old rival’s game rather than changing it.

“We don’t give my style. We, my team, it’s not just a lion, it’s just Usyk? No, we have another style, different. I’m left-handed, Anthony is consistent. Anthony doesn’t move like me. Listen, we give tools that help Anthony grow. My team with a plan, give me what helps me. My team gives plans that help everyone – not just my plan.”

Usyk recently vacated his WBO heavyweight title but still remains in possession of his WBC, WBA and IBF titles. The Ukrainian is set to return in 2026 and has named a former titleholder as the man he wants to face next.