Oleksandr Usyk vs. Anthony Joshua: A Speed Comparison with Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston

When comparing the handspeed and footwork of Oleksandr Usyk against Anthony Joshua with Muhammad Ali's performance against Sonny Liston, several factors come into play:

Handspeed and Footwork Comparison

Usyk vs. Joshua

Hands: Oleksandr Usyk is renowned for his quick and precise punches. He showcased this effectively in his fights with Anthony Joshua, known for his combination of offensive and defensive positioning. Usyk's ability to throw punches consistently without compromising his defensive stance is a defining characteristic of his boxing style.

Footwork: Usyk's footwork is exceptional. His lateral movements and angles allow him to create openings while evading incoming punches, making him extremely difficult to hit. Usyk's agility and versatility are crucial to his success in the ring.

Ali vs. Liston

Hands: Muhammad Ali was a pioneer in handspeed, delivering lightning-fast jabs and combinations. His movement while throwing punches was unparalleled, making him one of the most dynamic fighters in boxing history.

Footwork: Ali's footwork was remarkable, characterized by his ability to float around the ring, change angles quickly, and maintain ideal distance. This allowed him to outmaneuver opponents like Sonny Liston, who was known for his power and tunnel vision in the ring.

Overall Comparison

Speed: Both fighters exhibit incredible speed, but Ali is often considered one of the fastest heavyweights in history due to his ability to combine speed with his unorthodox style. Usyk's speed is impressive, especially in the context of modern boxing, but Ali's was considered superior.

Best Heavyweights in History

When it comes to Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk being among the best heavyweights in history, opinions vary among boxing enthusiasts and analysts:

Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury is known for his size, agility, and exceptional boxing IQ. He has achieved significant success, including victories over Deontay Wilder and Wladimir Klitschko. His unbeaten record and ability to adapt make him a strong candidate for the all-time greats.

Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk's ability to unify the cruiserweight division and subsequently move up to heavyweight to defeat top fighters like Anthony Joshua showcases his skill and versatility. His technical prowess and strategic thinking are highly regarded, making him a formidable contender for the title of the best heavyweight in history.

Conclusion

While both Usyk and Fury are among the top heavyweights of their era, the title of the best heavyweight in history is a matter of debate. Usyk's ability to unify weight classes and his technical skills make him a strong contender, but Ali's legendary speed and strategy continue to inspire and awe boxing fans.