Oleksandr Usyk delivered a masterful performance to defeat Tyson Fury by unanimous decision in their heavyweight championship rematch on Saturday night. The victory solidifies Usyk’s legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats, extending his undefeated record to 23-0 with 14 knockouts.
The Ukrainian boxer, known for his precision and relentless pace, dominated the contest, repeatedly landing his powerful left hooks. All three judges scored the fight 116-112 in Usyk’s favor, marking Fury’s second consecutive defeat and his first since their four-belt unification clash in May.
“Unbelievable 24 rounds for my career,” Usyk, 37, remarked, acknowledging the magnitude of their rivalry. Despite the fierce competition, he praised Fury, saying, “He’s a great fighter, it’s a great performance. Tyson Fury makes me strong.”
Usyk’s Historic Career
Usyk’s triumph further cements his place among the greats, alongside names like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. As an Olympic gold medalist and a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, Usyk’s accomplishments span multiple divisions. His victory over Fury in May made him the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era.
Despite relinquishing his IBF title to prioritize the rematch, Usyk’s focus remained unshaken. This time, only the WBA, WBO, and WBC belts were on the line.
Fury’s Future Uncertain
For Tyson Fury, the loss raises questions about his career trajectory. The 36-year-old Briton, who returned to boxing after a brief retirement in 2022, now holds a record of 34-2-1.
“I thought I’ve won both fights, but then again I’ve got two losses on my record now,” Fury admitted. He declined to speculate on his next steps, leaving fans and analysts guessing about his future in the sport.
Promoter Frank Warren criticized the judges’ decision, calling it “nuts,” but Usyk brushed off the remarks with humor. “Uncle Frank, I think, is blind… crazy man,” he joked.
The Fight’s Highlights
The highly anticipated rematch lived up to its billing. Fury, clad in a Santa-themed robe and entering to Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You, looked determined early on. But Usyk, donning traditional Cossack attire, quickly found his rhythm.
The fight featured back-and-forth action, with Fury using his significant size advantage—281 pounds compared to Usyk’s 220—to lean on the Ukrainian and deliver punishing body shots. Usyk, however, showcased his superior conditioning and technical skill, landing clean hits, particularly his trademark left hook.
By the final round, Usyk had firmly regained control, delivering a series of devastating blows, including an uppercut that sealed his victory. As the final bell rang, Usyk sank to his knees, arms raised in triumph.
Symbolic Celebration
Usyk’s post-fight celebration was steeped in Ukrainian pride. He held aloft an ancient sabre belonging to Ivan Mazepa, a historical figure who fought for Ukrainian independence in the 18th century.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Usyk’s victory as a symbol of resilience, saying, “Victory! So important and so necessary for all of us now,” in a Telegram post.
A Lucrative Event
Reports suggest the fight purse soared to $190 million, with Usyk earning the lion’s share as the defending champion—a reversal of their previous encounter.
The event, held in Saudi Arabia, also spotlighted the kingdom’s controversial push into global sports, often criticized as “sportswashing” its human rights record. Saudi Arabia recently secured the hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, further cementing its position in the global sports arena.
Usyk’s victory not only reaffirmed his dominance in boxing but also underscored the enduring appeal of heavyweight clashes, leaving fans eager for what comes next.
