Oleksandr Usyk has hinted he may prefer a fight with Tyson Fury rather than Anthony Joshua, but will stay focused on his rematch.
Joshua and the three-belt Ukrainian are set to meet in early 2022 after Usyk won in September of this year against the expectations of many observers.
His assured display has now put him as the favourite for their second fight, which is expected to take place in April. However there have been suggestions that Joshua briefly considered step-aside money to allow Usyk and Fury to compete for the undisputed heavyweight title.
Speaking to Forbes, Usyk says little has changed in his attitude since his win, but also said that he ‘might’ want to fight either Fury or Deontay Wilder.
“My mental state was fine before the fight with Joshua as it was after,” he began.
“I always knew what I was working toward. I was going straight up to my goals. Of course, it can change. That’s how things are.
“The victory happens and people are changing their [ideas about me], and it’s their right. However, I felt before Joshua that I would just keep working on my state of being prepared. I might want to fight Fury or Wilder, but for now, I’m concentrating on the rematch with Joshua.”
Usyk also explained how he noted some odd behaviour from Joshua ahead of the Briton’s lacklustre display.
He said: “Of course, me and my team pay attention to that.
“They observe and analyse… I was surprised because he was kind of distracted, chewing on the mouthguard like he was.
“That's why I thought it was strange.”