With mere hours left in the fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, reports have surfaced online suggesting the Ukrainian won’t be allowed to have his crucifix with him during the fight. Usyk and Fury will go head-to-head for their much-anticipated rematch at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The pair initially clashed back in May, producing a glorious close battle.

‘The Cat’ eventually came out victorious via a split decision, having scored a knockdown in the ninth round of the fight. Regardless, as the rivals prepare to test their mettle a second time, a report from GB News has revealed that Usyk won’t be allowed to have his cherished crucifix. In the past, Usyk has been known to kiss the crucifix for spiritual inspiration before and during fights.

However, it appears he won’t have access to the cross, which is being reported as a gift from Greek monks. The report also suggested that in case any item other than water is found to be placed near Usyk’s mouth will be confiscated and tested for any irregularities. This suggested that the Saudi Boxing officials are viewing Usyk’s cross as a potential method of delivering fast-acting stimulants.

The move seems to be in direct response to the outrage during the fight in May when Usyk was seen kissing the cross, and many accused him of ingesting some sort of substance in lieu of it. Saudi boxing officials don’t want a repeat of what happened in May. Meanwhile, Fury’s promoter Frank Warren has also confirmed the matter.

“After the fight, there was a lot of speculation, they weren’t sure what it was,” Warren said. “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.” This suggests that the decision to ban Usyk from having access to his cross was influenced by Fury’s corner.

However, that’s not the end of things! More interesting rules for the fight tonight have surfaced mere hours before the fight.

Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk: Last-minute notice for the Ukrainian

Alongside the guidelines on Usyk’s cross, the report also revealed that the definition of a low blow was especially highlighted before the fight. According to the report, a punch would be considered a low blow if it lands below the navel. This comes after the controversy during Usyk’s fight against Daniel Dubois last year.

Also on the report, Tyson’s lush beard has also emerged as a topic of discussion. Usyk’s team had demanded Fury shave his beard or trim it before the fight. “Beard rule is grossly violated. WBC rules clearly say… facial hair thickness does not: (1) cushion or in any way affect the impact or trajectory of punches,” Usyk’s statement read.

However, the Saudi boxing commission has rejected this request, allowing Fury to keep his facial vegetation during the fight.

That being said, it appears Oleksandr Usyk will take a spiritual hit during the fight tonight. However, whether that turns into an advantage for Fury, who came in 55 lbs heavier than Usyk during the final weigh-in is yet to be seen. What do you think about the decision to bar Usyk from his beloved cross?