Tony Bellew opens as massive underdog in potential scrap with Oleksandr Usyk

Bookies give Usyk an implied 94% chance of winning, but punters are backing Bellew.

Tony Bellew has opened as a sizable underdog at the bookmakers, following reports that a fight is edging closer.

The 35-year-old has been installed as a 6/1 outsider by bookies, with Usyk being fancied at as short as 1/14.

That implies a 94% probability of Usyk winning what would be a massive cruiserweight showdown.

However, punters are putting their hard earned cash on Bellew, with 68% of all bets on the fight backing the Liverpudlian to come out victorious.

Bellew is reportedly keen for a fight with the current WBC, WBA Super, WBO and IBF champion.

November 10th is reportedly the date for the clash, at the O2 Arena in London, Usyk’s promoter has also backed the fight happening.

Oddschecker spokesperson George Elek said: “With the performances of late from Usyk, it’s no surprise that the Ukrainian has opened as a hefty favourite to topple Tony Bellew.

“Bookies are indicating that this should be a one-sided contest, although punters across the country have been happy to back Bellew at a pretty large underdog price.”

Steve Wood and Marc Leach talk to VIP TV

VIP Promotions kick off the new boxing season this Saturday, September 15, at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse. Headlining the card will be Salford’s Marc Leach taking on Leicestershire’s Louis Norman in an English Bantamweight Title eliminator, live on vipboxing.tv.

Ahead of the show, VIP TV caught up with promoter Steve Wood, who gives an overview of the card and a rundown of the fighters appearing

In this ‘Getting to know your VIP fighter’ video, Marc Leach answers quick-fire questions including – his favourite all-time fighter, the best fight he’s seen, and his toughest opponent