Usyk Snubs Fury and Joshua, Names Chisora as Hardest Puncher

Despite facing heavyweight heavyweights, Usyk believes Chisora’s punch was the most powerful.

Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion, surprisingly named Derek Chisora as the hardest puncher he has faced in his career, overshadowing the likes of Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Usyk has had notable victories over Fury and Joshua, but he believes Chisora, whom he faced in his second heavyweight fight, possessed the most formidable punch.

“Toughest fight – yes,” said Usyk on the 3 Knockdown Rule podcast. “Biggest punch – no. Because Derek Chisora, very tough guy. [One punch landed] on the gloves and I said, ‘Oh my God.’ Like a baseball bat.”

Usyk’s rematch with Fury is anticipated for December 21, but the status of the belts at stake remains uncertain. However, Usyk has expressed his intention to return to cruiserweight, his original division.

The 37-year-old aims to become a two-time undisputed cruiserweight champion.

“I think maybe after the rematch, I am going to go down in weight to cruiserweight. I want more [fights at] cruiserweight,” explained Usyk. “Maybe I can be undisputed for a second time in the cruiserweight division, it’s my plan. When I start to prepare for my training camp [as a heavyweight], I have to eat all the time. For me it’s hard, I don’t like it.”

Usyk’s journey from cruiserweight to heavyweight has been remarkable. He has not only dominated the division but has also emerged victorious against its most formidable opponents.

His recognition of Chisora’s punching power underscores the depth of competition in boxing and the unpredictable nature of the sport.

As Usyk contemplates his future, his desire to return to cruiserweight suggests that he is eager to once again experience the agility and speed that made him a champion in that division.

Whether he pursues the undisputed cruiserweight title or faces Fury in a rematch, Usyk’s status as one of boxing’s elite fighters remains unassailable.