Amir Khan Advises Tyson Fury to Keep Distance and Avoid Eye Hits in Upcoming Bout with Oleksandr Usyk

Former World Champion Amir Khan has shared his insights on the highly anticipated fight between WBC heavyweight titleholder Tyson Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) and unified WBA, WBO, IBO, and IBF champion Oleksandr Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs). With the bout drawing near, Khan’s advice to Fury is clear: maintain distance, box strategically, and protect against hits to the eye.

"Fury needs to stay away, box with Usyk and not take hits to the eye," Khan emphasized, pointing out the critical factors that could influence the outcome of this titanic clash. Given the short preparation time following Fury's recent cut injury, Khan speculates on the readiness and resilience of Fury's physical condition.

Khan expressed hope for Fury’s full recovery and readiness, highlighting the tight three-month recovery window provided after the laceration. "Typically, it takes a month and a half for such an injury to heal, but the skin will still be fragile," Khan remarked, suggesting that the timing could grant Usyk an even greater advantage than he already possessed.

"Usyk has now gained an even bigger advantage. He was already at an advantage before, but now, it’s even more significant," Khan added, alluding to the dynamics and skills that make Usyk a formidable opponent. With Usyk's precision and timing, Khan warns Fury against overconfidence which could lead to a critical mistake.

Usyk, celebrated for his precise punching and exceptional timing, along with his Olympic champion status, poses a unique challenge. Khan’s respect for Usyk’s abilities is evident as he advises Fury on the strategic approach to the fight. "Tyson needs to keep his distance, box with him, and avoid taking hits to the eye," Khan stated, concerned about the adequacy of the recovery period for Fury’s eye injury given its severity.

The fight, originally scheduled for February 17, has been postponed to May 18 due to Fury's injury. This delay adds another layer of anticipation and speculation around the fighters’ strategies and conditions leading up to the rescheduled date.

Khan’s analysis offers a glimpse into the complexities of boxing at the highest level, where strategy, physical condition, and mental readiness converge. As the boxing world eagerly awaits this showdown, the insights from a seasoned fighter like Khan add depth to the narrative surrounding this highly anticipated match-up between two of the sport's most accomplished and skilled heavyweights.