Boxing pundit Johnny Nelson has issued a stark warning to Tyson Fury ahead of his potential undisputed heavyweight showdown with Oleksandr Usyk, suggesting British contender Daniel Dubois could spoil the party if the Gypsy King isn't firing on all cylinders.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the former cruiserweight world champion expressed concerns about Fury's recent performances, particularly his lacklustre showing against Francis Ngannou last October. "If Tyson Fury turns up like he did against Ngannou, Daniel Dubois beats him," Nelson stated bluntly.
Dubois: The Dark Horse of Heavyweight Boxing
The 26-year-old Dubois has rebuilt his career impressively since suffering his sole professional defeat to Joe Joyce in 2020. His devastating knockout victory over Jarrell Miller in December showcased the power and determination that makes him a genuine threat in the division.
Nelson believes Dubois's improvement under trainer Don Charles has been remarkable: "He's a different fighter now - stronger, smarter and with that killer instinct. If Fury's not 100%, Dubois could shock the world."
Fury-Usyk Mega-Fight in Jeopardy?
The much-anticipated unification bout between WBC champion Fury and IBF, WBA and WBO titleholder Usyk is scheduled for February 17 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. However, Nelson's comments raise questions about whether Fury should be looking past the dangerous Dubois.
"People forget Daniel is mandatory for Usyk's WBA belt," Nelson reminded fans. "If Fury slips up, we might be talking about Dubois-Usyk instead. That's how quickly things can change in this sport."
With the heavyweight division's landscape potentially shifting, boxing fans are left wondering whether 2024 will deliver the Fury-Usyk superfight everyone wants to see, or if an upset could rewrite the script entirely.
