By John F. McKenna (McJack): Undefeated British hopeful Tyson Fury (20-0, 14 KO’s) is a step closer towards getting his hoped for title shot against WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko (45-2, 41 KO’s) after defeating Kevin “Kingpin” Johnson (28-3-1, 13 KO’s) Saturday night at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Fury used his long reach, and left jab to win by a lopsided margin. The ringside officials scored the contest 119-110, 119-108, 119-108 in Tyson’s favor.
Recognizing that he was in with the most experienced and talented fighter he had yet faced Fury stuck to his game plan of being cautious. Tyson also demonstrated that he is now serious about his boxing career by getting into the best shape of his career. There were no signs of any excess baggage around the 24 year old Fury’s middle, much to his trainers delight. It was a welcome change for the frequently out of shape 6’9” heavyweight contender.
Prior to the fight Johnson’s main claim to fame had been that he survived 12 rounds against Vitali Klitschko in December of 2009. It was not the kind of fight to write home about however as the “Kingpin” offered no resistance in that fight and it appeared as though his sole purpose was to go the distance as he lost all twelve rounds.
Saturday night’s contest was also an uninspiring fight by both Fury and Johnson.
It became evident as the rounds went by that Tyson was going to stick to his game plan and remain a disciplined fighter throughout. It was quite a contrast to what Fury’s fans had come to expect from their favorite fighter as has sometimes thrown caution to the wind and used his massive size to overwhelm his less talented opponents. But against Johnson, Fury was not willing to take the risk.
The fact that Tyson is now being mentioned as a possible challenger for Vitali puts added pressure on former WBA heavyweight champion David Haye who reportedly turned down a fight with “Dr Ironfist” last summer and took on David Chisora instead. Haye has often stated that he will fight again only if it is against a Klitschko. The “Hayemaker” may see all his dreams go up in smoke if Vitali opts to fight Fury instead of him. From the Klitschko’s perspective Haye has been notoriously difficult to negotiate with when coming to terms for a prospective fight.
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