In 2008, Tyson Fury decided to turn professional after becoming disillusioned with the amateur ranks.
The Morecambe man missed out on a spot at the Olympics that year to David Price and, rather than waiting around until 2012, got his paid campaign underway, which would see him become a two-time world champion with one of the most unique heavyweight styles in some years.
Before all of that, one man says he was robbed of a win against the big Brit.
Speaking to Pro Boxing Fans, Michael Hunter detailed a UK versus US tournament at a black-tie event in London back in 2006. After the Americans had ‘knocked out like eight’ of the hometown fighters, Hunter said he and Fury were the main event. Although it was given to ‘The Gypsy King’ after three rounds, the former cruiserweight says he won convincingly.
“I kicked his butt. I almost had him knocked out, I had him out on his feet. Obviously he was standing up so they gave him the victory. We were supposed to fight again a couple days later but he never showed up, he just quit … The always do [that]. Pull out.”
On Fury’s skills, Hunter said that they may be overestimated.
“Obviously he was big and tall and hard to deal with, but I just don’t think he’s as polished as people think he is. I think he can rise to certain occasions but consistently been too spotty for me.”
Hunter moved up to the heavyweight ranks after losing in a bid for Oleksandr Usyk’s cruiserweight world title. The Ukrainian has also made the move since and this year beat Fury to become undisputed champion. For the rematch on December 21, Hunter believes Usyk will get the win again.
