Oleksandr Usyk was only marginally heavier for his rematch with Anthony Joshua, despite rumours of a sizeable weight gain, as the two rivals shared a 107-second stare down on the stage ahead of Saturday’s fight in Saudi Arabia.
The Ukrainian came in at 15st, 11lb and 10oz having weighed a then career heaviest 15st 11lbs (221lbs) when he beat Joshua to clinch the IBF, WBA and WBO belts at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September.
Joshua, who had entered the first meeting 17st 2lbs (240lbs), also built on his previous weight as he came in 17st, 6lbs and 8oz.
Training footage and speculation throughout the build-up had pointed towards a significant bulk-up on Usyk’s part in anticipation of a more aggressive, front-foot Joshua in contrast to the two-time world champion’s foiled plans to match his opponent’s technical prowess in the opening fight.
“You see your expectations are not always met,” said Usyk afterwards.
Klopp calls out Agbonlahor for Man Utd criticism
PL press conferences LIVE! Ten Hag set to speak
Man Utd close to ?59.2m Casemiro deal Chelsea optimistic over Auba deal
When are Joshua and Usyk in the ring?
Where the two had exchanged pleasantries ahead of their opening exchange in London, there was an icy feel to proceedings as the rivals shared an extended face-off.
“I always say for me personally face-offs don’t mean nothing. Just about the bell ringing and us throwing leather, face-offs don’t win fights,” said Joshua on stage.
“I’ll be honest all this stuff doesn’t matter, it’s just about the fight. Weight, face-offs, none of it matters to me, just looking forward to the fight.
“I’m just ready for 12 rounds, 100 per cent, anything short of that is a bonus.”
More to follow…
Anthony Joshua’s huge heavyweight rematch against Oleksandr Usyk is on Saturday August 20, live on Sky Sports Box Office. Book Usyk vs Joshua 2 now!