Things you didn't know about Nelson Hysa

Who is Nelson Hysa?

Unbeaten WBA #5 heavyweight Nelson Hysa (24-0, 22 KOs) is the frontrunner to face Tyson Fury in ‘The Gypsy King’s’ next fight on August 1 in Dublin.

Despite being ranked top 5 in the world, he is not yet a recognisable name, so who is Fury's forthcoming foe?

GBN listed a whole host of facts about the heavyweight giant right here.

Nelson Hysa Facts

Nelson Hysa was born in Shkodër, Albania on September 6, 1984.

Known as ‘The Albanian Eagle’, he is unbeaten in 24 bouts with a 91.67% KO ratio.

Hysa was engaged in boxing since childhood, following a family legacy of over 24 years in the sport. As an amateur, he was crowned Albanian champion 22 times.

His amateur career stretches all the way back to 2000. He won the Vllaznia Memorial three years in a row between 2002-2004, as well as many other national tournaments.

He had such a long and successful amateur career, he didn't turn professional until he was 37-years-old on May 14, 2022.

Nelson is managed by his father Ali Hysa.

He lost to the tournament winner Roberto Cammarelle in the 2007 World Amateur Championships in America, who Anthony Joshua defeated to win the 2012 Olympic gold. Hyso also lost to David Price in the 1st European Olympic Qualifier, and to Kubrat Pulev too.

The 41-year-old has beaten six fellow undefeated opponents, with a combined record of 64-0. 20 of his 22 knockouts have come within three rounds or less. His only decision wins both came early in his career in fights five and six. His last 18 contests have all ended early. His 24 victories have all come within just four years of his pro debut.

In November 2024, Hysa defeated Argentine Ariel Esteban Bracamonte at the York Hall, attracting the attention of the British promoter Frank Warren, with whom he collaborated as part of the big international event "Riyadh Season" in Manchester.

Hysa has won seven titles so far - Universal Boxing Organization International, WBC CISBB, WBF Intercontinental, IBO International, WBO European, WBA Gold, WBO Global.

Nelson stands at 6' 5" and has a 79" reach.

As a pro, he has fought in Albania, Germany, Macedonia, Switzerland, England.

He is ranked WBA #5 / WBO #11 / IBO #22.

Hysa is also active as a sports promoter. He has founded the "Iron Fist" event, a platform that promotes boxers from Albania and the Balkans, organising a dozen events so far.

He and his partner Stela have two children together – a girl and boy.

Follow Nelson on Instagram here: @nelsonhysa