Tyson Fury, the undefeated WBC heavyweight champion, has faced some formidable opponents throughout his career, including Deontay Wilder and Wladimir Klitschko. However, in a recent interview, the British boxing star revealed that the toughest opponent he’s ever faced was neither of them nor Oleksandr Usyk, the current unified heavyweight champion, who many believe to be his ultimate rival.
Fury stunned fans by naming former opponent Steve Cunningham as the most challenging competitor he’s ever encountered in the ring. The “Gypsy King” fought Cunningham back in April 2013 in Madison Square Garden, a match remembered for its intense exchanges and Fury’s dramatic comeback.
In their 2013 bout, Cunningham, a former cruiserweight champion with incredible speed and agility, managed to knock down Fury in the second round with a powerful right hand. Despite being the larger man in the ring, Fury struggled with Cunningham’s mobility and skill. “He was very slippery, very hard to catch,” Fury recalled. “He was much quicker than I anticipated, and he hit harder than his size would suggest.”
Although Fury ultimately won the fight in the seventh round by knockout, he acknowledged that it was Cunningham’s unique style and relentless energy that made the match unforgettable. The experience gave Fury a new appreciation for lighter, faster fighters, particularly those with excellent technical skills.
Tyson Fury is currently set to take on former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a boxing match on October 28. While Ngannou is known for his immense power, he is not considered as technically skilled as other top boxers in the heavyweight division. Following this, boxing fans eagerly anticipate a unification bout between Fury and Usyk, a match that would determine the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
Though Fury has immense respect for Usyk’s accomplishments and skills, it’s clear that he sees Cunningham as his most challenging foe due to the unexpected difficulty he posed. This revelation sheds light on the diversity of opponents Fury has faced and further cements his reputation as a fighter who can adapt to various styles in the ring.
As Fury’s career progresses, fans can only wonder if a new opponent might one day surpass Cunningham in the “Gypsy King’s” personal rankings. For now, however, it’s a reminder of the toughness and resilience required to be the best in the world of heavyweight boxing.
