The upcoming matchup between IBF/WBA/WBO heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and WBC champ Tyson Fury has generated a lot of buzz, but the undercard has left much to be desired. Fans have criticized the undercard, claiming that it only features one notable fight and the rest are filler bouts. This lack of depth raises questions about the overall quality of the event.
Only three fights on the undercard have garnered significant interest: Jai Opetaia vs. Mairis Briedis II, Joe Cordina vs. Anthony Cacace, and Agit Kabayel vs. Frank Sanchez. These matchups stand out among a sea of lesser-known fighters and unexciting pairings. The remaining fights include prospects and a matchup between 41-year-old Sergey Kovalev and relative unknown Robin Sirwan Safar, which has failed to capture the attention of fans.
Promoter Frank Warren has defended the undercard, insisting that it is a strong lineup with several fights that could headline their own shows. Warren pointed out that the undercard features quality British fighters and praised the overall composition of the card. However, many fans remain unconvinced, expressing skepticism about the depth of talent and excitement present in the matchups.
Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that only one fight on the undercard has the potential to headline a major event – the Opetaia vs. Briedis rematch. Even this matchup is met with skepticism, as Briedis, at 39 years old, has not fought since his loss to Opetaia two years ago. The necessity of a rematch is questionable, raising concerns about the overall value of the fight. Additionally, the other notable matchups, Sanchez vs. Kabayel and Cordina vs. Cacace, do not possess the star power or significance to carry a main event status in the U.S. market.
An analysis of the fighters in question reveals significant drawbacks. Anthony Cacace, at 35 years old, is ranked #11 with the IBF at super featherweight, but his resume is filled with underwhelming opponents at the British level. With a lackluster track record and a decisive loss to Martin Joseph Ward in 2017, Cacace fails to generate much excitement among fans. This raises concerns about the level of competition and the overall appeal of the undercard fights.
While the Fury vs. Usyk main event holds promise, the undercard falls short of expectations. With only a handful of noteworthy matchups and questionable fighter credentials, the overall quality of the event is called into question. Fans may be left disappointed by the lackluster undercard and the absence of compelling matchups beyond the main event.