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OLEKSANDR USYK has the support to defeat Tyson Fury, according to the man who came close to doing it himself.
The undefeated champions will face off in the first-ever four-belt unification bout in the heavyweight division on May 18 in Saudi Arabia.
But Usyk won't be the first ex-cruiserweight champion to step into the ring with Fury.
In 2013, during his American debut in New York, the Gypsy King took on heavyweight newcomer Steve Cunningham.
Cunningham famously knocked down Fury and initially had the upper hand before being worn down and knocked out in the seventh round.
Now, the American is predicting that Usyk will accomplish what he couldn't and become the first to defeat Fury.
Cunningham, 47, told iFL TV: "I think Usyk can beat Fury for two specific reasons. The first is Usyk's unmatched ability and skill set.
"He has unique movements, is awkward, and thinks differently in the ring. He takes angles.
"He represents the highest level of boxing that we see right now. He can land shots on Fury that can cause significant frustration.
"The second reason is his team, specifically his manager Egis [Klimas]. They are powerhouses in Europe and around the world.
"Egis has a successful track record of managing fighters and protecting them."
Fury has previously admitted that Cunningham was the most challenging opponent he has faced in his career.
In a 2018 interview with Joe Rogan, Fury said: "Believe it or not, this is going to sound strange - Cunningham was the toughest fight I ever had in my entire career, whether amateur or professional."
Fury utilized his size advantage against the smaller Cunningham, something that Usyk will be aware of.
Cunningham added: "With Fury, we all know he employs tactics that are borderline.
"I wouldn't say they're illegal. He hasn't been disqualified yet, but they're borderline and give him an advantage.
"Being 6'9" and 260 lbs, all he does is take a few hits, block them, and lean on his opponent throughout the fight.
"He did it to me, he did it to Wilder. He did it to fighters whom he wanted to exhaust.
"Later on, you appear fresh because your opponents are drained from carrying your 260-lb body. So, you can do whatever you want to them.
"I don't think Egis and the team will allow that without Fury being penalized.
"If Fury can overcome the management aspect and control the officiating, with the referee being in his ear, he can beat Usyk.
"But apart from that, I slightly lean towards Usyk."
Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are scheduled to fight on May 18.
