Spencer delighted by Tyson Fury’s knockout debut

Ashley Iveson
July 15, 2020 1:45 pm

Trainer anticipating stable visit from namesake boxer.

Trainer Richard Spencer expects boxing superstar Tyson Fury to visit his equine namesake “in the near future” following his winning debut at Doncaster on Sunday.

The Newmarket handler confirmed in February of last year that the two-time heavyweight world champion had given his blessing for the Iffraaj colt to be named in his honour, with part-owner Phil Cunningham friendly with a member of Fury’s team.

While it has taken a while for him to make his competitive debut, 20-1 shot Tyson Fury made a foot-perfect start over a mile and a half on Town Moor – finishing strongly in the hands of Megan Nicholls to score by a length and a half.

Tyson Fury watched his namesake in action (Bradley Collyer/PA)

Speaking on Monday morning, Spencer said: “I believe Tyson watched the race at home with his brother and his dad. I have no idea if he had a bet on the horse, but the owners did and I’m delighted for them as they’ve been really patient with him.

“Tyson hasn’t been to see the horse himself yet, but I imagine he will do in the near future.”

Spencer is keen to let the dust settle on Tyson Fury’s excellent introduction before committing to future targets, but is keen to test him at a higher level before too long, having dreamt of a bid for Derby glory earlier in the year.

He added: “I was very pleased with his performance – it was a lovely way for him to start. I thought for him to come from where did in a slowly-run race was impressive – he quickened up twice to beat more experienced horses.

“We’ve been trying to get him out for the last few weeks, but every time we’ve declared him the ground has gone against us. I would have preferred to run him over a mile and a quarter first time, but the races weren’t there when the ground was suitable.

“His work has been good and he did hold a Derby entry. We had hoped to get him out earlier, but obviously we couldn’t run him in the spring because of Covid-19 and that meant we didn’t get there, but he’s an exciting horse for the future, I think.

“He’s a big horse who has just taken a bit of time to grow into himself and fill his frame. We’ll see how he is over the next week or two before making any plans, but I think we’ll be looking at bigger targets.”