Tyson Fury is currently enjoying some well-earned time off with his family following his blockbuster rematch with Oleksandr Usyk, but the ‘Gypsy King’ has already made a major change

Tyson Fury, the two-time heavyweight champion, has decided to shave off his contentious beard following his second consecutive loss to rival Oleksandr Usyk. The ‘Gypsy King’ is currently taking a well-deserved break with his family after his high-profile rematch with the Ukrainian boxer.

Fury, aged 36, experienced his first professional defeat in May at the hands of ‘The Cat’. In an attempt to redeem himself against Usyk, the British boxing star took his rematch preparations seriously, even admitting that he hadn’t spoken to his wife for over three months leading up to the fight.

Despite his efforts, Fury was unable to inflict the first defeat on Usyk’s professional record. In their second encounter, Fury demonstrated improved boxing skills.

He started the match aggressively, clearly aiming for an early finish. The ‘Gypsy King’ had a successful start, effectively targeting Usyk’s body and making good use of his jab.

However, the momentum shifted before the halfway point as Usyk’s agility and speed proved too much for Tyson. Eventually, the 37- year-old Ukrainian celebrated victory via unanimous decision, reports the Mirror.

Following their bout in Riyadh, images surfaced showing both fighters relatively unscathed. A close associate of Fury has disclosed that the Morecambe fighter has opted for a fresh look shortly after his match with Usyk.

Jimmy Harrington, during an interview with Boxing King Media, confirmed that Fury has indeed shaved off his beard, saying: “Yeah, he’s shaved his beard off.

“He’s obviously back at home in Morecambe now with his family. He’s just doing his day-to-day things… going out for coffee, going out with his family and doing his tips runs as well as getting back into family and father life. He’s been away for three months not seeing his family. He’s just spent Christmas at home and I believe that he’ll spend the New Year’s (Eve) at home and not going away.”

In the lead-up to the fight against Usyk, there was significant discussion about Fury’s beard, with Usyk’s camp insisting that the British heavyweight trim it before entering the ring. Ultimately, Fury managed to keep his beard for the fight.

Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, commented to Sky Sports about Fury’s beard: “He has a beard and there’s been a lot of fighters over the years who’ve fought with beards, and that’s it.”

He also disclosed that Usyk would be prohibited from having the crucifix, given by Greek monks, in his corner during the fight. Despite Usyk’s belief that the religious item provided inspiration during their first match, kissing the cross for good luck, its presence won’t be permitted this time.

Warren explained the decision further: “After the fight there was a lot of speculation, they weren’t sure what it was. We just cut through it all. If there’s anything that is used other than water that goes to the fighter’s lips, then the inspector will take it away and hold it and if anything is seen to be not correct then they’ll deal with it, test it, whatever that may be, what they have to do.”