Oleksandr Usyk has been banned from kissing his cross during tonight’s heavyweight clash with Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia.
The Ukrainian champion was seen kissing an object during his split-decision victory over Fury in Riyadh in May, sparking widespread controversy.
The incident led to an inquest into the use of foreign objects in the ring, resulting in new restrictions for tonight’s bout.
Only water will now be permitted to touch fighters’ lips during the contest, as boxing officials aim to prevent any further speculation.
Boxing news: Oleksandr Usyk has been banned from kissing his cross during tonight’s heavyweight clash with Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia
PA
Fury’s promoter Frank Warren confirmed the new restrictions on items touching fighters’ lips during the contest.
“After the fight there was a lot of speculation, they weren’t sure what it was,” Warren said.
“We just cut through it all. 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.”
Warren added that if anything appears incorrect, officials will “test it, whatever that may be, what they have to do.”
Boxing news: Oleksandr Usyk was seen kissing his cross during his first bout with Tyson Fury back in May
SKY
The decision was reportedly influenced by Fury’s camp, who sought to prevent online speculation and controversy.
The controversy stemmed from social media speculation after boxing fans zoomed in on screenshots of the object Usyk kissed.
Some viewers suggested it was an inhaler, which would be considered an illegal performance-enhancing drug if used during the fight.
Usyk was forced to release a statement strongly denying the use of PEDs during the clash.
JUST IN: Man City urged to sack Pep Guardiola as crisis worsens with nightmare Aston Villa defeat
The incident sparked widespread backlash online, ultimately leading to the current restrictions on foreign objects in the ring.
Other rule clarifications have also been addressed ahead of tonight’s fight.
The definition of a low blow has been specified as anything below the navel, following controversy in Usyk’s bout with Daniel Dubois last year.
A dispute has also emerged over Fury’s facial hair, with Usyk’s team demanding he trim his beard.
READ MORE: Tyson Fury makes final decision on shaving his beard amid row ahead of Oleksandr Usyk boxing rematch
Their statement read: “Beard rule is grossly violated. WBC rules clearly say… facial hair thickness does not: (1) cushion or in any way affect the impact or trajectory of punches.”
The commission has rejected this request, allowing Fury to keep his beard for the fight.
Fury enters tonight’s bout seeking revenge for his first career defeat, which came against Usyk earlier this year.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Boxing news: Oleksandr Usyk is the favourite to win tonight’s fight with Tyson Fury
PA
The high-stakes rematch could potentially lead to a third encounter between the heavyweight rivals.
Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh is reportedly planning to make an immediate offer for a trilogy fight if Fury emerges victorious tonight.
The outcome of tonight’s contest could therefore have significant implications for both fighters’ futures in the heavyweight division.
+ There are no comments
Add yours