Arslanbek Makhmudov Believes Bear Wrestling Will Aid in Tyson Fury Bout
The Russian heavyweight contender, Arslanbek Makhmudov, is convinced that his unconventional training methods, particularly wrestling a bear, will prove crucial in his upcoming fight against Tyson Fury. The two boxers are set to clash at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday night, with Makhmudov bringing a reputation for extreme preparation techniques.
Unorthodox Training Methods
Makhmudov, known for his powerful punching and aggressive style, has incorporated unique practices into his regimen. These include using sledgehammers to strengthen his abdominal muscles and taking cold plunges in freezing water. However, the most remarkable aspect of his training involves a near-death encounter with a bear nearly two years ago.
He described wrestling a 9-foot-8-inch, 66-stone bear in the woods outside Moscow as a terrifying experience that taught him to confront fear. "It was very terrible. Not just scary, but really crazy terrible," Makhmudov told the Press Association. "Since I was a kid I have liked a challenge, that’s why I did that just to test myself to see how I would feel in that crazy situation."
Psychological Preparation for Boxing
Makhmudov emphasized that the bear encounter was invaluable for mental conditioning in boxing. "You only understand its strength when you’re close to it. In one second you can become like meat, just meat, just like that," he said. "It’s not comparable with human stuff. It’s like a natural disaster, I cannot explain it, it’s crazy. It is good preparation for boxing because you have to control your emotions and your fear. You have to beat your fear, beat your phobias. For that it was good, but one time is enough!"
Makhmudov's Background and Confidence
With 19 knockouts in 21 wins, Makhmudov's punching power is seen as a significant threat to Fury. The 36-year-old, based in Canada, has a history of street fighting from a young age, which he believes has prepared him for this moment. "From six or seven years old I was fighting bigger or older guys," he recalled. "If I punched someone hard, then I could see on his face that he was finished. So I knew from young that if I punch someone hard, he won’t fight me any more."
He added, "All my life I’ve been fighting. I recognise myself as a fighter. Of course, even in the streets sometimes I lost, but I became stronger. That’s why I think I have enough experience for Tyson Fury, because my life has prepared me for this moment."
Facing a Boxing Legend
Makhmudov acknowledged Fury's status as a legend and one of the best heavyweights in history. "Tyson Fury is a legend, one of the best heavyweights in history. He’s a big name. But if I want to be the best, I have to beat the best," he stated. Expressing confidence, he said, "I will enjoy this fight. I will enjoy every moment. I will enjoy my win." He also noted that he thrives on being underestimated, saying, "This is the biggest opportunity in my career. I like to be in this position where people are underestimating me. I’m going to upset everyone."
Fight Details and Streaming
The heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Arslanbek Makhmudov will take place on April 11 in London. Fury has come out of retirement for this bout, which will be streamed live on Netflix. Fans can access the fight through various subscription bundles, including Sky's TV packages that offer Netflix and other streaming services.
