Carl Froch believes Tony Bellew has all the tools to beat undisputed cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk on Saturday.
Usyk has quickly risen to the top of the cruiserweight rankings since making his debut against Felipe Romero in 2013, having won all 15 of his professional fights.
The Ukrainian boasts impressive knockout power – ending 11 of his fights inside the distance – and he will attempt to further improve on that record at the Manchester Arena.
He called out Bellew after his most recent victory over Russia’s Murat Gasslev and the Liverpudlian was quick to get on board.
After stepping up to heavyweight for his double-header with David Haye, Bellew hinted he could retire and Saturday’s bout provides him with the chance to return to world title level before bowing out.
Bellew may be regarded as a massive underdog but Froch feels the 35-year-old can pull off a shock result. Froch told Sky Sports:
“If Tony can work that game plan, which might be get your gloves up high, don’t get hit with silly shots and back up Usyk for five or six rounds.
“Put pressure on him by using your feet. Get in his face. You might lose the rounds but you can try to exhaust him for the second half of the fight.
“Bellew has then got that punch and if he lands that left hook, Usyk will be out cold. I know he will because Bellew is a massive puncher.”
Bellew can be backed at 5.50 to win, Usyk is priced at 1.17 and the draw is available at 26.00.
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