Tyson Fury has won his battle to keep his beard for the upcoming heavyweight title clash with Oleksandr Usyk.
The Gypsy King had faced requests to trim or shave his facial hair ahead of the fight.
Usyk’s team had lodged an appeal with the Middle East Boxing Commission, who are overseeing the main event, demanding Fury reduce his beard.
However, promoter Frank Warren confirmed that Fury has been granted permission to maintain his look as it stands.
Boxing news: Tyson Fury has won his battle to keep his beard for the upcoming heavyweight title clash with Oleksandr Usyk
PA
Warren told Sky Sports: “He has a beard and there’s been a lot of fighters over the years who’ve fought with beards, and that’s it.”
In another ruling, Warren revealed that Usyk will not be allowed to have his crucifix – a gift from Greek monks – in his corner during the bout.
The Ukrainian fighter, known for kissing the cross during fights, considers the religious item a source of inspiration.
Boxing news: Oleksandr Usyk’s appeal has been unsuccessful ahead of Saturday night’s bout with Tyson Fury
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“After the fight there was a lot of speculation, they weren’t sure what it was. We just cut through it all,” Warren explained.
“If there’s anything that is used other than water that goes to the fighter’s lips, then the inspector will take it away and hold it and if anything is seen to be not correct then they’ll deal with it, test it, whatever that may be.”
Fury’s team sought clarification about low blow rules during Friday’s rules meeting.
The move comes after controversy in Usyk’s 2023 bout with Daniel Dubois, where a disputed low blow incident occurred.
Warren detailed: “It’s what is considered to be a low blow or not. Anything below the navel is a low blow and a lot of fighters tend to wear their shorts higher, which occasionally triggers a bit of confusion in the ring.”
“There was a problem in that fight and we don’t want that happening and nor does the other side.”
The judge has now provided clear instructions regarding low blows, unlike in the previous Usyk-Dubois encounter.
Meanwhile, Fury’s trainer Andy Lee has offered insight into the boxer’s mindset ahead of the clash.
“I’ve always called him the puppetmaster because he can control his opponents at weigh-ins and interviews. I don’t think he’s been able to do that with Usyk yet,” Lee told The Sun.
Boxing news: Tyson Fury is set to sport a wilder look for his upcoming showdown with Oleksandr Usyk
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Lee revealed a recent conversation with Fury during camp that boosted his confidence.
“He stopped me short and said, ‘Andy, I am going to kill this guy, I am just going to go through him. I don’t know what everyone is worried about and discussing it for and contemplating tactics and strategies.'”
“I just believe in the man. If there is any one person who can overcome all of these things, all of these odds, then it is Tyson Fury.”
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