Usyk has been linked to a showdown with Wilder, but it is not a fight that Fury Sr wants to see, as he believes Wilder’s time at the top is now over. 

At the peak of his powers, Wilder, a former WBC champion, appeared to be an unstoppable force until he participated in a thrilling and memorable trilogy with Fury, with the latter stopping Wilder on two occasions. 

Since those losses to Fury, Wilder has been beaten by Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang, but he may have the opportunity to return to the top if he defeats Usyk in a fight that is still not confirmed.  

Fury, who lost to Usyk twice in 2024, was inactive for the full duration of last year, but there is talk that he will return to action in the spring. 

Fury Sr, a vital part of his son’s team, has responded to the rumours that Usyk and Wilder could collide this year. 

“Wilder’s done. Wilder needs to retire before he ends up permanently damaged,” said Fury Sr when speaking to Seconds Out.  

“Usyk, for me, is taking the p--s wanting to fight Deontay Wilder. A man long past his best, he hasn’t a leg underneath him, he can’t take a shot anymore, he’s damaged material. 

“Why take a liberty, why tread where the grass is low when you wouldn’t fight him when he was at his best? I wouldn’t embarrass myself wanting to fight a man like Deontay Wilder on Usyk’s ability.”

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Rising star Moses Itauma faces his toughest test yet against Jermaine Franklin on Saturday, January 24, as part of the Queensberry Magnificent 7 fight card. Watch exclusively with a DAZN subscription, with monthly and annual options available.

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