Finnish veteran Robert Helenius has stated that Tyson Fury is easier to fight than Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk.
Helenius also warns that there is no other deserving contender to fight Oleksandr Usyk than him.
Helenius came into world title contention with his two career-best results – successive knockout wins over the previously undefeated Adam Kownacki.
‘The Nordic Nightmare’ is ranked at No 3 by the WBA, whose belt is held by Usyk, and he is demanding to be instated as the mandatory challenger.
“Right now we are waiting for a formal response from the WBA, this is my first priority,” Helenius told Sky Sports.
“My lawyer has notified WBA in writing, I’ve paid sanctioning fees, and there is no more deserving contender to fight Usyk in the WBA than me.
“I fully expect to be officially named mandatory.
“I’ve earned it and I will fight outside the ring as hard as I fight inside the ring for my opportunity.”
Ukrainian boxer Usyk is set to defend his IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight titles in a rematch against Brit Anthony Joshua.
Helenius, who has shared the ring with Derek Chisora and Dillian Whyte, has also emerged as an unexpected option to face Fury.
Fury is in negotiations to defend his WBC belt against mandatory challenger Whyte but has not yet sealed a deal, despite naming March 26 as his preferred date to return.
Helenius and Andy Ruiz Jr were cited as alternatives to Whyte by Bob Arum, who promotes Fury in the US.
“I have heard my name mentioned by Bob Arum and others of possibly fighting Fury in March,” Helenius said.
“Of course, I feel I would beat Fury.
“He looked great against Deontay Wilder, but he would find a much less favourable style against me.
“I would knock Fury out.
“He is an easier style for me than Usyk for sure.”
Source: Skysports
