Kingdom Arena in Riyadh: Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury by split decision, unifying the WBA, WBO, WBC and IBF world titles. The victory made Usyk the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era and the first since Lennox Lewis 25 years earlier.
The fight was full of drama, especially in the ninth round when Fury nearly suffered a knockout after receiving a standing score from referee Mark Nelson. Usyk’s victory was confirmed by scores of 115-112, 113-114 and 114-113, adding the WBC title to his collection.
The ninth inning was a turning point. Usyk landed a powerful left hook that visibly shook Fury, sending him staggering across the ring. Usyk followed with a relentless barrage of punches, sending Fury against the ropes. Nelson intervened with count 10, believing the ropes had stopped Fury from falling. The bell rang just in time, sparing Fury further punishment.
Earlier in the fight, Fury showed strong form, using his jab effectively and landing a significant right uppercut in the second round. Despite his showmanship, which included hiding his hands behind his back and tilting his head to the side, Fury still connected with Usyk multiple times.
Usyk, unfazed by Fury’s antics, remained focused and landed solid punches, including a strong left cross and straight shots to Fury’s body. By the third round, chants of Usyk’s name echoed throughout the arena as he charged forward.
Fury’s evasiveness in the fourth round led to Usyk hitting relentlessly when cornered. Fury responded with body shots but saw an opportunity in the sixth round when a long right hand hurt Usyk, who had to retreat to recover.
The seventh round saw Fury in high spirits, but Usyk’s left cross reminded him of the challenge he faced. Fury landed a series of hooks in the eighth round, but Usyk’s persistence paid off in the ninth when he unleashed a barrage of punches that nearly ended the fight.
In the final round, Usyk looked to press his advantage, while Fury fought back fiercely to ensure the fight went the distance. After the decision was announced, Usyk expressed his gratitude, dedicating the victory to his team, country and late father.
“Thank you so much for my team. It is a great opportunity for my family, for my country,” Usyk said. “I’m very happy. I think my people will be very happy. It was a great victory, not only for me, but also for my country and the soldiers who defend it.”
However, Fury felt he deserved the victory. “I believe I won that fight“, he say. “He won a few rounds, but I won more. Make no mistake, I won that fight and I’ll be back.”
In the near future, both boxers are ready to fight again. Usyk affirmed his readiness, saying: “Yes, of course. I’m ready for the rematch.His promoter, Alex Krassyuk, echoed this sentiment, praising Usyk’s performance and predicting another thrilling encounter.
