Oleksandr Usyk is now just hours away from his monumental heavyweight clash with Tyson Fury, but it is the straps around his arms that have got people talking.
The Ukrainian caused a stir after posting a picture which showed black bands tied around his biceps.
Ahead of his massive fight in Saudi Arabia, Usyk has been putting himself through a brutal training routine, which involves these straps.
Why does Usyk wear straps on his arms?
Well, wearing these straps is actually quite a common tactic for boxers, especially in the build-up to a fight.
However, it isn’t very comfortable for the individual.
This is because these belt-type objects restrict the flow of blood to the arms, which in turn, contributes to improved muscle mass.
Read more on Fury vs Usyk
The bands have an actual name and are known as pneumatic restriction cuffs, and by cutting blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, they tire quicker.
This sounds like it would be a negative thing because muscles need oxygen to work.
However, in the build-up to a fight, this actually makes the muscles temporarily stronger because blood builds in the limbs, causing them to swell.
Swelled muscles lead to bigger and stronger ones, so although it’s a strange technique, it does work.
Usyk looks in excellent condition ahead of this massive encounter against Fury.
The 37-year-old is unbeaten in his professional career and is aiming to become the undisputed champion of the world.
He’s annihilated every opponent that has come his way so far, including Anthony Joshua twice.
But Fury is a different beast.
The Brit is also unbeaten in his professional career and wants all of the belts.
But Usyk is more than confident he’ll come out on top.
Speaking to the Boxing Scene, he said: “I feel good. The Fury fight is a big event for me, my family and my country. I can’t wait.
“I’m not thinking about the knockout. My focus is on boxing. If I can, it will be a knockout. If not, it will be a 12-round win.”
News Summary:
- Why does Oleksandr Usyk wear straps on his arms? Ukrainian prepares for heavyweight clash against Tyson Fury with unusual method
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