Artur Beterbiev, the undisputed light heavyweight champion with a terrifying record of 21-0 and 20 knockouts, has openly admitted that he is not in favor of breaking up with Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated king of the heavyweight division. In an interview with Fight Hub on January 13, Beterbiev admitted: “There will be no fight with Usyka. It’s too strong for me.” At least he’s fair, huh?
Beterbiev made it crystal clear in an interview with Fight Hub TV that moving up to heavyweight to face Usyko is not on his to-do list. “If he comes back to my division, I will fight him. But not in the heavyweight division. Cruiserweight? Not. Too strong, too good.” Well, that’s one way to avoid a beating.
The pair have a history as they have clashed three times in the amateur ranks. Usyk was the best twice, and it seems those memories are still fresh for Beterbie. I can’t say I blame him for not wanting to be a part of the man who just trained Tyson Fury.
Speaking of Fury, Beterbiev also had thoughts on that. “Fury fought well. I’m a little sad that there aren’t any big names in the heavyweight division right now. I mean, real legends like Muhammad Ali or Mike Tyson. Right now, Usyk and Fury are the best in this weight category.” Translation: The heavyweights are a bit of a snooze fest these days, except for Usyk and Fury.
Frankly, Beterbiev’s honesty is a rare thing in boxing. Most fighters would give some catchphrase about “considering all options” or “testing yourself against the best”. Instead, Beterbiev is actually saying, “No, dude. I will stick to my lane.”
