Usyk and Gassiev will battle in the WBSS Cruiserweight finals for the Ali Trophy and for undisputed status!
WBO/WBC Cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (14-0, 11 KOs) will face WBA/IBF Cruiserweight champion Murat Gassiev (26-0, 19 KOs) in a fight for sole claim of division supremacy.
Usyk, a 31 year old Ukrainian fighter, has puzzled many opponents with his unique style and movement since coming on the scene. His rise to the top of the division has featured some of the top names in the division.
Gassiev, a 24 year old Russian fighter, gained his first world title when he defeated Denis Lebedev back in 2016. He became a unified champion, in style, by claiming the WBA title over undefeated fighter Yunier Dorticos. His performance here proved him more than a one dimensional fighter.
Looking at this match-up should get fans excited. Each contender carries power in both hands and is in tremendous shape.
Usyk’s movement and ability to counter-punch can cause anyone trouble. He is a very accurate puncher and uses his footwork to switch from offense to defense. He will also have a two-inch reach advantage, which goes well with his ability to judge distance
Gassiev is an in-your-face type of fighter and a good body puncher. He can throw punches from different angles and fight on the inside if necessary. In his last fight, he showed he can make adjustments and improved on the defense which he displayed in the Dorticos fight.
July 21 in Moscow, fans will see another Undisputed Cruiserweight champion; something we haven’t seen since O’Neil Bell back in 2006. Will it be Usyk or Gassiev?
By: Garrisson “Bo” Bland
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