Oleksandr Usyk has publicly pledged to assist Anthony Joshua in his quest to defeat Tyson Fury, signaling a new chapter of collaboration between two of the sport's most recognizable heavyweight figures. Joshua, a former world champion who has previously fallen to the Ukrainian fighter on two occasions, has officially joined Usyk's training camp, spending time alongside the unbeaten, unified heavyweight champion as part of a concerted preparation effort. Usyk welcomed the British contender into his inner circle with enthusiasm.
"We help each other. We train together, we joke around, and we enjoy the process. We used to be rivals, now we’re friends," he told Sky Sports, underscoring the shift from competition to camaraderie. The Ukrainian, a two‑division, three‑time undisputed world champion, has already bested Fury twice in the ring, making him an ideal mentor for Joshua as he eyes a showdown with the former two‑time heavyweight champion.
"I think AJ will do it, beat my friend ‘Greedy Belly,’" Usyk quipped, using his characteristic humor while expressing confidence in Joshua’s ability to overcome the challenge. The comment reflects both the light‑hearted rapport between the two fighters and the seriousness of the task ahead.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed to Sky Sports that negotiations are progressing for a long‑awaited all‑British heavyweight clash with Fury later this year. Hearn suggested that Usyk could even step into Joshua’s corner on fight night, adding another layer of strategic advantage for the British boxer. "It’s a massive statement. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see this happen," Hearn said.
"Having Oleksandr in the corner is a huge help—how could it not be? It won’t be an easy fight, but we’re all confident that AJ can pull it off." According to Hearn, Joshua’s time training with Usyk is already yielding tangible benefits. "The setup is incredible.
Being around the best fighter in the sport is inspiring, and he loves it. He arrived on his own in August‑September, saying he’d stay for two weeks, and he’s never left," Hearn explained. Joshua even called Hearn after just three days, FaceTiming from his hotel bed and admitting he was considering returning home.
Hearn recounted a vivid moment: "I saw him sprinting, heart rate at ninety percent, and the pound‑for‑pound No. 1, Usyk, walked over to the treadmill and said, ‘Keep going, you can do this, you’re going to be a champion again.’ That kind of encouragement is priceless. It fuels the fire and passion that Anthony brings to his career and to this upcoming fight." The promoter believes the partnership will elevate Joshua to a new level of performance.
"Combine that with Oleksandr’s experience—he’s beaten Fury twice—and you have a powerful dynamic. AJ is thrilled to be there.
It’s a different type of energy, a new purpose. He’s fighting for more than just belts; there are personal stakes in his life as well," Hearn added. Usyk, meanwhile, is preparing for his own high‑profile bout. On May 23, he will defend his WBC heavyweight title against Rico Verhoeven, the dominant kickboxing champion who is making his debut in top‑level boxing.
The fight will take place in the shadow of the pyramids in Giza, offering a dramatic backdrop for what promises to be a clash of styles. Usyk remains confident about his upcoming challenge. "For me it’s a regular fight. I am a master boxer," he said, implying that Verhoeven should brace himself for a classic Usyk masterclass.
The Ukrainian’s focus is singular: defeat Verhoeven, then consider future possibilities. Speculation abounds regarding Usyk’s next steps. Rumors link him to a potential showdown with the winner of the Fabio Wardley‑Daniel Dubois bout, a fight that could reunify the four major heavyweight titles. A trilogy with Fury is also mentioned as a tantalizing prospect, though Usyk declined to elaborate, stating, "Now my focus is only on Rico.
After that we’ll talk about future plans. It’s May 23 in Egypt—discipline and focus, just this fight." The alliance between Usyk and Joshua adds an intriguing narrative to the heavyweight division. With Usyk’s technical brilliance, strategic insight, and recent victories over Fury, his mentorship could provide Joshua with the nuanced adjustments needed to finally overcome his long‑time adversary.
If the training camp continues to produce the positive momentum described by Hearn, the stage may be set for a historic British showdown that could reshape the heavyweight landscape. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as both fighters prepare for their respective battles. Joshua’s determination, bolstered by Usyk’s guidance, may finally tip the scales against Fury, while Usyk’s own title defense against Verhoeven will test his adaptability against a fresh, unorthodox opponent.
The coming months promise a flurry of high‑stakes matchups, strategic alliances, and the ever‑present quest for heavyweight supremacy.