Oleksandr Usyk has left no stone unturned throughout his training camp, anticipating another formidable test when he locks horns with Tyson Fury this Saturday.
The pair will collide for three of the four major titles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following their thrilling encounter back in May.
Oleksandr Usyk, of course, emerged victorious, producing a punishing ninth-round onslaught before edging a split decision to become the first undisputed heavyweight king since Lennox Lewis.
At the same time, though, the Ukrainian is well aware of his rival’s strengths, knowing that he may be compelled to walk through fire in their hotly anticipated rematch.
- Read More [‘Shot to pieces’… Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury 2 predicted by former three-weight world champion]
Oleksandr Usyk has been working with sports scientist Jakub Chycki
Shortly after concluding his illustrious amateur career, Usyk went on a terrific surge to become the undisputed champion at cruiserweight in just 15 professional fights.
Then, in a bold move up to heavyweight, ‘The Cat’ amassed two comprehensive victories before dethroning Anthony Joshua in scintillating fashion.
But while there is undoubtedly a mystique surrounding his brilliance, Usyk’s tremendous mental fortitude and remarkable capacity to build his endurance can largely be explained by his training.
On several occasions, the 37-year-old has been known to implement some rather unorthodox methods in the gym, often dancing away to his favorite music or juggling while maintaining his balance on an exercise ball.
And yet, there is clearly a method to the madness, with Usyk calling upon the services of sports scientist Jakub Chycki to maximise his athletic potential against Tyson Fury.
“Yes, I have a lot of new things – this is done by [Chycki],” he told Mail Sport Boxing. “We walk on our hands for 15 minutes, we train a lot, we run, we swim and we sit underwater for ten minutes.”
- Read More [Tyson Fury’s trainer addresses concerns over ‘hectic’ corner ahead of Oleksandr Usyk rematch]
How will Oleksandr Usyk’s preparation help him against Tyson Fury?
In previous training camps, Usyk’s methods seemed to be tailored towards improving his balance, agility and reflexes – hence the dancing and juggling.
Of course, like any other elite level boxer, the Olympic gold medallist will only engage in such activities between his tough spars, strength and conditioning and pad work.
But still, it is nonetheless interesting that Usyk has decided to walk on his hands and hold his breath underwater ahead of his rematch with Fury, perhaps hoping to improve his stamina and mental robustness.
Yet this preparation, however strange it may seem, could be instrumental to beating his upcoming opponent, an unorthodox technician in his own right.