British former super-middleweight legend and Hall of Fame Inductee, Joe Calzaghe, has waded into the Klitschko/Fury debate to state that it’s a big ask for the undefeated challenger to topple the long-time champion, who is currently 11 1/2 years undefeated.
Fury attempts to wrest away Klitschko’s IBF/WBA/WBO heavyweight titles in Dusseldorf in 9 days time, in what is to be, far and away the biggest fight of his life, yet having shed as much as 5st (70lbs) in order to be in the best shape possible, many are speculating that given his huge 6′ 9″ frame and youth, the 39 year old champion could possibly be in for his toughest defence in a long time.
“Let’s make no mistake about it [Fury] is the underdog,” Calzaghe told mirror.co.uk. “Of course he is, Klitschko’s been champion for so many years and this is a big step up for him.
“Fury is big and Klitschko’s not used to fighting someone his size, so if Fury can stop Klitschko grabbing and avoid that big right hand, he’s got a chance. In heavyweight boxing, with the big, big guys, it only takes one punch.”
“I can’t make a prediction though, this is uncharted territory for Fury. Klitschko is getting on. Is it the same Klitschko of old? ‘Father Time’ catches up on everybody,” he added. “There are a lot of question marks surrounding the fight.”
Speaking to Sky Sports about previous struggles with weight in his career, Fury said.
“For me, it’s easy to whack on three or four stone [between fights]. I know that sounds a lot but I come back into camp at 23st and I have to get down to 18st. [Trainer] Peter’s not happy about that when I come back in so he puts me through mental and physical torture for six months.
“I’ve actually flicked a switch now where I’ve started to realise it’s just not worth it – no matter how good it tastes or how much I want to do it, there’s always another day.
“I live my life like there’s no tomorrow. If I have one biscuit, I’ve got to have the packetful. If I’m out having a beer, I can’t have one or two – I’ve got to have it until I can’t stand up anymore.
“I’m all or nothing. In fights, you’ve seen it.”
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