Oleksandr Usyk says he will not try to knock out Tyson Fury if the pair of them fight.
Usyk is a three-belt heavyweight world champion, boasting the IBF, WBA and WBO belts after defeating Anthony Joshua twice. Both fights went the distance, despite the power of both men.
The 35-year-old Ukrainian is expected to fight Fury in 2023 as he attempts to secure the Briton’s WBC belt in order to become undisputed in the division, with little declared interest in fighting anyone else.
Fury, for his part, fights Derek Chisora in December in North London, with many boxing fans looking to the new year for a clash that is even more appealing than the all-British tie.
Speaking to Polish newspaper Interia, Usyk explained that he will give it everything he has to beat Fury should they meet the ring, and respects the threat he poses.
“He's a well-trained big guy, he knows what to do. It won't be a walk, I know it, but I'm ready,” he stated.
“I will do absolutely anything to win. “
However, despite his desire to emerge the victor, he made it clear that he does not aim to win by knockout, because it puts the health of his opponent in danger.
“When I go into the ring - I never give myself a task [to] knock out another player,” he said.
“I am very happy when I win on points. Because a knockout is a hard thing for an athlete. I don't want to take health away from anyone. And I'm really happy when we both get out of the ring on our own. Before each fight, I am asking God for it. Of course I like to win, but I don't want to hurt anyone. “