Johnny Nelson brands Oleksandr Usyk ‘average’ after title vacation
Former undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk has been labelled an “average” southpaw by boxing legend Johnny Nelson, just days after the Ukrainian vacated his heavyweight titles following a victory over Rico Verhoeven in Egypt.
The 39-year-old shocked the sporting world by relinquishing his belts a little over a month after an 11th-round stoppage win at the Pyramids of Giza.
Despite giving up his championship status, the undefeated fighter intends to step into the ring at least once more before officially retiring.
Widely regarded as a generational pound-for-pound great, the former two-division king has rarely looked vulnerable during a 13-year professional career.
Nelson questions technical ability
Ex-cruiserweight champion Nelson has now offered a surprising critique of the veteran’s overall skillset.
Speaking on the Fight Your Corner podcast, the British pundit insisted that his compatriot Tony Bellew was a superior talent.
“As a southpaw, he is average,” Nelson stated.
“I thought Tony was ahead on points, and I back up my comments that he is a more talented fighter.”
Bellew, who was stopped by the formidable Ukrainian during their 2018 clash, admitted that he was ultimately undone by relentless footwork and extreme exhaustion.
“Never in my career have I got tired, but I was so exhausted that night,” Bellew replied.
One final dance for the champion
Unfazed by outside criticism, the highly decorated athlete is already plotting a spectacular farewell bout.
In a recent social media address, he explained his decision to step aside and allow rising contenders to challenge for the vacant crowns.
“I’m leaving the belts but I’m not leaving the sport because I still have my last dance,” he announced.
Speculation is currently mounting over who will face the legendary fighter in his ultimate career test.
Team director Sergey Lapin has indicated that American heavyweight Deontay Wilder or former UFC champion Jon Jones are the primary targets.
Wilder appears to be the leading candidate for a blockbuster American showdown before the end of the year.