By Sohaib Shams
Ben Davison has played down Tyson Fury's "tongue-in-cheek" claim that he is a "traitor" after reuniting with Anthony Joshua ahead of their heavyweight super-fight.
History between Davison and Fury
Davison previously coached Fury in 2018, guiding him to wins over Francesco Pianeta and Sefer Seferi and a draw with Deontay Wilder. They parted ways before Fury's 2020 rematch with Wilder. Davison then teamed with Joshua in 2023, leading to knockouts of Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou, but they split after Joshua's stoppage loss to Daniel Dubois in 2024. Joshua has since stopped Jake Paul and Kristian Prenga, and now reunites with Davison for the Fury fight on 11 December at Cardiff's Principality Stadium.
Davison dismisses 'traitor' label
At a press conference, Fury playfully labeled Davison a "traitor". Davison told Playbook Boxing: "I think it's tongue in cheek... I don't think he cares who works with AJ. But I think most importantly, I spent a lot of time with him, and I think deep down he knows what type of person I am." Davison said he has love and respect for Fury, calling it "solely business".
No conflict of interest
Davison, 33, also downplayed the significance of his past with Fury, saying there is "not really" a conflict of interest. He explained that Fury has developed as a fighter and that he never discusses Fury with Joshua, maintaining integrity.
Response to John Fury's criticism
Davison refused to respond to criticism from Fury's father John, who complained about the trainer's decision. Davison said boxing has become like a "woman's hairdressers" with endless gossip, and he won't live his life commenting on what others say.
