Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk look to join an exclusive list of heavyweight icons when they lock horns for their eagerly anticipated rematch in nine days’ time.
The pair produced a compelling spectacle when they collided for the undisputed crown earlier this year, with both combatants showcasing their elite ring craft.
But ultimately, it was Oleksandr Usyk who emerged victorious, scoring a stunning ninth-round standing count before edging a somewhat contentious split decision.
And now, as they return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for what promises to deliver a thrilling sequel, the winner is set to acquire a status that only few have the privilege of obtaining.
Will Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2 winner be an all-time heavyweight great?
It goes without saying that the winner on December 21 will be unanimously regarded as the best heavyweight of his era.
Of course, IBF titlist Daniel Dubois may have something to say about that, but, at the same time, both Usyk and Tyson Fury have done more to wear such a crown.
Should he beat Usyk, ‘The Gypsy King’ would have toppled three champions – including Wladimir Klitschko and Deontay Wilder – of the modern era.
Likewise, the Ukrainian’s victories over Fury and Anthony Joshua – not to mention his accolades at cruiserweight – already make him one of the greatest fighters of all time.
But still, with the likes of Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Joe Louis all considered to be on the ‘all-time’ list, there is certainly some stiff competition for a prestigious spot.
Nevertheless, boxing legend Lennox Lewis has welcomed an entry from whoever wins between Usyk and Fury.
“Absolutely, [the winner would have] definitely worked the way he’s supposed to – to [be added to] the list,” Lewis told BoxNation.
“It’s going to be a tough fight for both guys; it’s going to be mentally tough, it’s going to be physically tough.
“Both guys want to win this fight. Oleksandr Usyk hasn’t lost the fight. He wants to keep that going; he wants to be the heavyweight that hasn’t lost a fight.”
Frank Warren teases potential trilogy between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury
Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren has told talkSPORT that a trilogy showdown between the pair will take priority if Fury exacts revenge on Usyk.
It only makes sense, after all, that a decider will be staged if the Brit levels their score, potentially prolonging the winner’s entry on Lewis’ list.
But if Usyk retains his titles, then surely, after beating Fury twice, the 37-year-old will have nothing left to prove in the sport.