Oleksandr Usyk (37) emerged victorious over Tyson Fury (35) by split decision on Sunday, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the world in nearly 25 years. The Ukrainian clinched the title in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with judges scoring the bout 115-112, 113-114, and 114-113 in his favor after a decisive knockdown in the ninth round.
Usyk’s victory marks the first time since Lennox Lewis in 1999 that a boxer has unified the heavyweight belts. “I feel good. A lot of people prayed for me, I love you,” Usyk said post-fight. “I’m very happy. My people will be very happy, I think. It’s a big win, not only for me but for my country and for the soldiers defending it.”
By adding Fury’s WBC belt to his WBA, WBO, and IBF collection, Usyk handed Fury the first defeat of his 16-year professional career. Despite the loss, Fury immediately called for a rematch. “I believe I won that fight. I believe he won a few rounds, but I won more of them,” Fury asserted. “We go back to our families and we run it back in October.”
The bout began with a clear size difference between the two fighters. Usyk, light on his feet, evaded Fury’s early advances. Fury entertained the crowd, moving his hips while Usyk remained focused. In the second round, Usyk landed a one-two combination that Fury shrugged off before responding with his own solid shots.
As the fight progressed, Fury’s confidence grew, especially after a heavy uppercut in the sixth round that forced Usyk to retreat. However, the eighth round saw both fighters exchange heavy blows, with Usyk causing cuts to Fury’s nose and head.
The ninth round proved pivotal as Usyk battered Fury around the ring, leading to a knockdown call from the referee. Usyk maintained control, inflicting further damage without seeking a knockout. The final round saw both fighters throw heavy punches, ending with Fury raising his hand while Usyk celebrated with his team ahead of the judges’ decision.
