Heavyweight icon Lennox Lewis has handed the psychological advantage to Tyson Fury as he anticipates the long-awaited bout against Anthony Joshua, scheduled for December 11 at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.
Lewis, who was central to boxing history as one half of the first all-British heavyweight title fight, spoke to Sky Sports regarding the upcoming matchup. He highlighted the significance of the event for domestic fans and noted that the rivalry between Fury and Joshua spans nearly ten years.
“This is a unique fight. It’s a great fight and it’s a fight that everybody’s been waiting for,” Lewis said. “I think it’s very important for British history and for the British fans as well.”
While cautious about predicting a winner, Lewis emphasized the contrasting qualities of the two competitors. “Styles make fights,” he explained. “I think the fight may go the distance but both of them have knockout power. Anything can happen.”
He added: “I think that Tyson’s winning on the mental, and on the physical I think it’s Anthony Joshua.”
The setting in Cardiff holds special resonance, echoing the infamous “Battle of Britain” on October 1, 1993, when Lewis defeated Frank Bruno at the former National Stadium in wet and stormy conditions. Thirty-three years later, Cardiff will again host two British heavyweights looking to settle a lingering feud marked by contractual disputes and public sparring.
The venue was ultimately chosen after negotiations over hosting locations. While Joshua’s team insisted the fight remain in the UK, and Wembley was ruled out due to broadcasting requirements linked to the United States, the Principality Stadium offered a practical solution with its retractable roof, avoiding the weather complications of Lewis’s historic win.
Lewis concluded by noting that despite the long journey, both fighters are eager and prepared. “They just have to go to training camp and bring it on,” he said.
Styles make fights indeed. Both have serious power, so anyone predicting a clean decision might be taking a huge risk.
Cardiff bringing back memories of 1993 is poetic. Hope the roof stays closed though, no one wants a repeat of that storm.
Wait, Lewis thinks Joshua is physically superior? I thought Fury’s movement was enough to neutralize that advantage.
Mental warfare is half the battle. Fury definitely has Joshua rattled this time around.