In a heated exchange that has electrified the boxing world, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has lambasted Tyson Fury, branding him ‘delusional’ for his claims that he won his fight against Oleksandr Usyk. Joshua’s sharp critique included the biting remark, “Maybe his brain was knocked out by Usyk,” highlighting the intensifying rivalry between the two British heavyweights.

The controversy erupted after Tyson Fury, known for his brash and unfiltered comments, asserted that his fight with Usyk was easier than expected and that he believed he had won the majority of the rounds. Fury’s statements have drawn widespread criticism, with many in the boxing community, including Joshua, questioning his perception of the bout.

“It was a lot easier than I thought it would be. A lot easier. People say he’s a hard man to hit. I was lighting him up with three and four punch combinations and laughing at him,” Fury said in a post-fight interview. “I’ve watched the fight back lots of times and still got the same answer. I thought I won the fight … I thought I boxed the head right off him for most of the rounds. He landed a good punch in round 8 and busted my nose and in round 9 he had a 10-8 round so that’s two, and I give him round 10, but other than that I didn’t give him any other rounds. I give him 4 rounds in the fight.”

Joshua, never one to shy away from confrontation, took to social media and various platforms to voice his disdain for Fury’s remarks. In a video shared by Ring Magazine, Joshua was seen sitting with Saudi’s Turki Alalshikh, engaging in a video call with Fury that quickly turned confrontational. Fury declared he would fight Joshua after handling Usyk ‘again,’ to which Joshua retorted, “You’ve not dealt with him once yet,” adding, “at least I’m not delusional for thinking I beat the Ukrainian.”

Joshua’s comments have resonated with many fans and analysts who watched Usyk’s dominant performance against Fury. Usyk’s technical prowess and relentless pace were widely acknowledged as the deciding factors in their fight, making Fury’s claims of an easy bout seem far-fetched to many observers.

The escalating war of words adds significant tension to the already highly anticipated rematch between Fury and Usyk, scheduled for December 21 in Saudi Arabia. Fury, seeking redemption and the chance to reclaim his standing, must now also contend with the heightened scrutiny and expectations stemming from his controversial comments.

Prominent figures in the boxing world have weighed in on the dispute. Promoter Eddie Hearn remarked, “It’s all part of the drama and spectacle of boxing, but there’s a clear difference between confidence and delusion. Tyson needs to back up his words with a definitive performance in December.”

Joshua, currently preparing for his own high-stakes bout against Daniel Dubois, has used the opportunity to fuel his rivalry with Fury further. Should Fury secure a victory in the rematch against Usyk, and if Joshua overcomes Dubois, the stage will be set for a monumental clash between the two heavyweights, a fight fans have long awaited.

The potential Joshua-Fury showdown promises to be one of the biggest events in boxing, with both fighters eager to prove their supremacy. For now, the focus remains on Fury’s upcoming challenge and whether he can substantiate his claims with a victory over Usyk.

As the boxing community buzzes with speculation and anticipation, one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher. Tyson Fury’s claims of an easy fight against Usyk have not only drawn criticism but have also set the stage for a dramatic and potentially career-defining rematch. With Anthony Joshua ready to pounce on any misstep, the next few months will be crucial for both fighters.

In the unpredictable and fiercely competitive world of heavyweight boxing, the lines between confidence and delusion are often blurred. Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua’s ongoing feud, amplified by their latest verbal sparring, ensures that the road to the heavyweight crown remains as turbulent and thrilling as ever. As fans eagerly await the next chapter, the legacy of these boxing giants hangs in the balance.