Oleksandr Usyk’s trainer, Sergey Lapin, has made a bold prediction ahead of the highly anticipated rematch between Usyk and Tyson Fury scheduled for December 21. Lapin believes that Usyk will knock out Fury and end his boxing career once and for all.

In their previous encounter, Usyk secured a split decision victory, becoming the first Undisputed Heavyweight Champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999. Despite one judge controversially scoring the fight in favor of Fury, the consensus was clear: Usyk dominated the early rounds and outclassed Fury. Although Fury had moments of success in the middle rounds, Usyk’s performance was largely superior.

During the ninth round, Usyk appeared to be on the verge of a stoppage victory when the referee imposed a standing eight count. Questions arose about Fury’s slow reaction, which some argued should have led to an immediate stoppage. Post-fight, Fury refused to accept defeat, attributing Usyk’s victory to political sympathy due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite rewatching the fight, Fury remained adamant that he had won, dismissing Usyk as an amateur boxer.

Lapin is convinced that the rematch will have a definitive outcome. “Fury will have his opportunity again in December, but this time it will not go the distance. Usyk has studied, scanned, and seen all of his trump cards. Fury has nothing else to play; this will be the last fight of his career. Usyk will retire Tyson Fury,” Lapin declared.

Concerns about Fury’s mental state have been exacerbated by recent events. He was seen being thrown out of a bar, raising questions about his readiness and focus. Fury has a history of mental health struggles and alcohol issues, which he must overcome to be at his best for the rematch.

Adding to his woes, Fury’s refusal to accept his previous loss may hinder his performance. His brother, Shane Fury, initially believed Tyson had won but later conceded that Usyk deserved the victory upon rewatching the fight. The confusion in Fury’s corner during the first bout, with conflicting instructions from his father John Fury and trainers SugarHill Steward and Andy Lee, also impacted his performance.

Fury’s motivation for the rematch is in question. With Usyk vacating the IBF Belt, Fury cannot fight for undisputed status. Financially secure, Fury might not have the same drive as before. Regardless of the outcome, Shane Fury hopes his brother will retire after the rematch. “Win, lose, or draw, if he stops in a round and looks excellent doing it or loses in an excellent fight, I want him to retire. He’s achieved so much, and he should look back at his career with pride,” Shane said.

As the rematch approaches, all eyes will be on Tyson Fury to see if he can reclaim his former glory or if Oleksandr Usyk will indeed retire the boxing legend. With intense preparation and personal stakes on both sides, December 21 promises to be a night of high drama and significant implications for the future of heavyweight boxing.