Oleksandr Usyk defends his world titles in a tough fight against Tyson Fury. The Ukrainian underpins his status as the best boxer in his weight class and a potential hall-of-famer.
Oleksandr Usyk remains the king of the heavyweight division. After winning the first meeting between the two best heavyweights in the world, the Ukrainian also won the rematch in the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. After twelve tough rounds, Usyk won unanimously on points in the Kingdom Arena. All three judges scored the fight 116:112 in favor of the 37-year-old defending champion.
With this triumph, Usyk retains the WBA, WBO and WBC world championship belts. It was his 23rd victory in 23 professional fights, 14 of them by knockout. Usyk thus remains unbeaten and once again proves his technical superiority.
Tyson Fury struggles with result
Fury was not satisfied with the verdict. “I think I won the fight,” said the Briton after the second defeat of his career. Fury, who had come into the ring wearing a Santa Claus coat, spoke of a “Christmas present” for Usyk. His promoter Frank Warren also criticized the judges’ scoring.
Despite the criticism, Fury was not an easy opponent. He kept the fight open until the last round with dangerous strikes. But Usyk impressed with his activity, speed and precision.
President and Klitschko congratulate Usyk
Usyk received presidential congratulations from Ukraine. President Volodymyr Selensky described the victory as “important for all of us”. Vitali Klitschko also offered his congratulations: “This victory belongs to the whole of Ukraine.” Wladimir Klitschko, who watched the fight live, called Usyk a “true legend”. Usyk’s victory had symbolic significance for his war-torn homeland.
Dubois challenges Usyk
Immediately after the fight, his next opponent presented himself. IBF world champion Daniel Dubois challenged Usyk to a rematch. The two had already faced each other in the ring in August 2023. Back then, Usyk won by technical knockout. Now Dubois wants to reclaim the title. Usyk is ready: “Organize the fight, I’m in.” Before that, however, he wants to take a break and enjoy time with his family.
Return to cruiserweight?
After his victory, Usyk is considering a return to cruiserweight. He was also the undisputed champion there once before. “I dedicated this victory to my mother,” said Usyk emotionally after the fight. It remains to be seen whether this will actually happen.
Because Oleksandr Usyk no longer has to prove anything to anyone. As an Olympic champion and undefeated undisputed champion in two weight classes, heavyweight and cruiserweight, he is practically guaranteed a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. He should also be financially secure. So why not hang up his boxing gloves at the age of 37?
Text: Andreas Ohlberger