Tyson Fury has astonishingly registered no objection to a full team of Americans being appointed to his world heavyweight title rematch with Deontay Wilder here in Las Vegas tomorrow night.
The Bronze Bomber welcomed the appointment of top Nevada-born referee Kenny Bayless and three American judges for one of the biggest boxing fights for half a century.
The Gypsy King’s agreement to all US officials seems to confirm that he really does intend to go for a second-round knockout.
Fury has always believed he did enough to win their first fight which was scored a draw, a decision that was booed by parts of the crowd at the Staples Center.
That verdict was brought down by an international panel — and having a complete set of officials from Wilder’s homeland would appear to stack the odds against Fury getting a 12-round decision.
‘Bayless is a good referee, always on top of the job,’ said Wilder. ‘And Americans like the bangers who make the fight.’
The WBC heavyweight champion also refuted Fury’s claim that he will switch from his usual elusive style and go on the attack.
Wilder added: ‘Under pressure, everyone reverts to what they know. And that big knockdown in the last round has been in his head for 14 months.
‘He couldn’t remember going down or getting up. It was just a miracle. Hallelujah. Thank you Jesus.
‘But, now, he’s got to hug the bear again. And you don’t change things if you don’t think it’s broke.’
Manchester-born Fury added: ‘I’m not bothered about the judges. I couldn’t care less about the American officials. They’re very experienced and top quality. I’d not even asked who they were going to appoint. I won’t risk putting it in the hands of the judges again.’