Frank Bruno has a clear view on whether or not Oleksandr Usyk would have fared well during his era against the likes of Lennox Lewis.
For many, Usyk is a generational great. The southpaw’s CV is second to none from almost any period in boxing.
He ended his time as an amateur with a Gold medal in the Olympics in 2012 and turned over soon after.
By 2018, he had beaten everyone in the cruiserweight division to become the undisputed four-belt champion.
He then made the move up to heavyweight and followed in the footsteps of the likes of Evander Holyfield and David Haye. After settling in fights against the likes of Derek Chisora, he went into a fight with Anthony Joshua for three of the four world titles.
After winning that on points, he rematched the Brit and again came away with victory after 12 rounds. He defended the belts against now-IBF champion Daniel Dubois, then went into a historic undisputed contest in May 2024 with the unbeaten Tyson Fury.
The Ukrainian again came out victorious, then in December rematched the Brit and beat him for a second time, picking up a unanimous decision on the cards.
Speaking to iFL TV, former world heavyweight ruler Bruno played down Usyk’s all-time credentials and claimed he wouldn’t have been able to compete with the likes of Lewis.
“I don’t think in my era he would have got this far. In his era, he’s done very well. I’m not being b****y when I say that, I’m only talking from the heart. He wouldn’t have stood [with the likes of Lennox Lewis]. They’re too big heavyweights for him, naturally big guys, you know.”
