Unified heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk was accused of using an inhaler in between rounds during his fight with Tyson Fury this weekend.
Whilst many Tyson Fury fans pointed this out on social media, it turns out it was the Ukrainian’s cross that he kissed before he went out for the next round.
Usyk who became the first unified heavyweight champion since 1999 is set to rematch Fury later this year.
Usyk ‘Accused’ of Cheating in Fury Fight
As Oleksandr Usyk was in between rounds 7 and 8. It appeared that something was put to the Ukrainian fighter’s mouth before he headed out for the round. Many people at the time wouldn’t have known what it was or pay much attention to it. It appeared to cause a stir on social media.
The clip which was published on X, quickly gained traction on the platform amassing many likes and shares. After the result was announced the clip was widely shared by Tyson Fury fans accusing Oleksandr Usyk of cheating. Due to the Ukrainian using what appeared to be an inhaler to slow his breathing down and recover his stamina.
Inhalers which have been banned from all combat sports since 2002 by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) are commonly to control a person’s breathing. In combat sports, if a fighter uses anything prohibited by WADA they are immediately disqualified and the contest is awarded to the other fighter.
Typically an inhaler would help the fighter to recover their stamina in between rounds and help to regulate their breathing, As social media fans and commentators alike began to rip into Oleksandr Usyk’s win. A second clip showed a completely new angle of the incident.
Before the fighter went out for the 8th round, Usyk actually kissed his cross. Being a devout Orthodox Christian. The object in question was actually his cross which he normally wears and carries everywhere he goes.
Usyk Promoter Acknowledges Rematch will Happen in October
Whilst the fight may have been two days ago, signs of a rematch appear to be on the card. Oleksandr Usyk promoter Alex Krassyuk said; “We are men of our words. It’s not about paperwork.”
“if we shake hands and promise something, we do it. I see no reason for the rematch not to take place.”
Lastly, a date has not yet been confirmed. However, rumours of a rematch taking place in October continue to surface on social media. A venue has not been chosen as of yet.
Who do you think will win the rematch Tyson Fury or Oleksandr Usyk?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
