TYSON FURY became a ‘living legend’ after his dramatic trilogy bout win over Deontay Wilder.
That is the view of cruiserweight contender Andrey Mangushev, who spent time sparring and training with the Gypsy King in Miami this summer.
Months later, Fury scored a dramatic knockout win against Wilder in their third encounter, with both men winning the respect of Mangushev.
He told World Boxing News: “For me, it was a great honor to train together with a great person. In my opinion, the best heavyweight of all times is Tyson Fury.
“After the third fight with Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury became a living legend. We know this is because Deontay Wilder is a very powerful boxer.
“Wilder deserves a lot of respect, not only as a unique puncher but also as a true warrior.
“Even though he lost twice, he never gave up and continued fighting. This deserves a lot of respect.”
Fury, 33, and Wilder, 36, first fought in 2018, which ended in a contentious draw.
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But the unbeaten Brit made no mistake in the rematch and subsequent trilogy, winning in seven and then 11 rounds.
Fury wanted to face Oleksandr Usyk – who beat Anthony Joshua in September – next in an undisputed title decider.
But instead, Usyk, 34, is contracted to an immediate rematch with Joshua, 32, set for April 2022.
Russian Mangushev, 23, who stands 6ft 7in, still believes a future fight between the Ukrainian and Fury is ‘one of the most anticipated events’ in boxing.
He said: “I am very excited for the undisputed championship fight between Tyson and Usyk.
“I think that it will not only be a spectacular fight amongst two of the smartest boxers. But also a clash of two different styles and tactics.
“Considering the fact that Usyk went up in weight, it will be a tough challenge for him.
“He probably doesn’t expect what kind of power he will have to deal with in that fight. It is one of the most anticipated events.
“Tyson became a respected mentor for me. Not only in boxing but also as a highly spiritual person and a true philanthropist.”
