Tyson Fury’s trainer SugarHill Steward may let him spar with Apti Davtaev in order to prepare the WBC champion for the power of Deontay Wilder.
Fury and Steward worked together to win the first rematch between the pair, and they are set for an expected third fight on Dec. 19, though there is no official confirmation on venue and date.
Davtaev is another of Steward’s clients, and his impressive 19 knockouts from 21 fights are testimony to his punching power, which has led the trainer to consider bringing his charges together for training sessions.
Dmitriy Salita, the Russian’s promoter, explained that such a plan could be on the cards, saying: “Potentially yes.
"While Apti is more filled out than Wilder, they are about the same height. That would be a great experience for Apti.
"He is the best heavyweight coming out of Russia. His time off the radar, training at the Kronk Gym with Sugarhill over the last several years paid off. He is now ready to explode onto the heavyweight scene."
Steward explained that the plan has been in the making for some time, telling Sky Sports: "I wanted them to spar but the timing wasn't right.
"Apti was fighting in Russia, and Tyson in Las Vegas, one day apart, so it didn't make sense to travel.
"He had a good performance in his last fight, keeping the things that I taught him.
"He was excited to box with Tyson. He wants to learn from the best. It would be a great combination because Tyson loves to teach. During his last camp, we spent time teaching the sparring partners, not just teaching Tyson."