Oleksandr Usyk retained his unified heavyweight world titles, defeating Tyson Fury by unanimous decision in their highly anticipated rematch in Saudi Arabia.
The 37-year-old Ukrainian proved his mettle once more at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, outboxing Fury over 12 rounds to secure a second consecutive victory against the British fighter.
Having handed Fury his first career loss via split decision in May, Usyk once again demonstrated his superior boxing IQ and relentless determination.
Despite Fury’s strong start and some eye-catching moments, Usyk’s volume of punches and precision carried the day.
The judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of the undefeated champion, who now boasts a flawless professional record of 23 wins.
“Tyson Fury is a great fighter and an incredible opponent. These 24 rounds will stay with me forever. Thank you,” said Usyk, the Olympic gold medallist and former undisputed cruiserweight champion, after the fight.
Fury, 36, was visibly frustrated after the decision, claiming backstage that he had won the fight by “at least three rounds.” Despite the setback, his record remains impressive, with 34 wins, one draw, and only two losses—both to Usyk.
In the aftermath, Fury left the ring without speaking to the media, while IBF champion Daniel Dubois entered the ring to issue a challenge to Usyk. Dubois, who has a history with the Ukrainian after a controversial stoppage loss, expressed his desire for a rematch.
The fight, billed as “Usyk vs. Fury: Reignited,” lived up to its billing as a showcase of elite heavyweight boxing. Fury’s theatrical entrance as Father Christmas, complete with Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” contrasted with Usyk’s no-nonsense demeanor as he entered the ring in warrior-like attire, reciting a prayer.
The action unfolded cautiously in the early rounds, with Fury initially leveraging his physical advantages—six inches in height, eight inches in reach, and a four-stone weight difference.
However, Usyk’s superior technique and relentless bodywork began to tell as the fight progressed.
Fury found some success in the middle rounds but struggled to maintain his momentum as Usyk picked up the pace.
The Ukrainian landed clean, powerful shots, including a stunning overhand left in the sixth and a flurry in the 11th that visibly hurt Fury.
As the fight wore on, Usyk’s conditioning and accuracy shone through, while Fury appeared increasingly desperate.
Promoter Frank Warren acknowledged the disappointment, praising Fury’s effort but conceding the narrow loss.
While Fury faces questions about his next steps, including a possible long-awaited clash with Anthony Joshua, Usyk remains firmly in control of the heavyweight division.
The champion’s options include a potential rematch with Dubois or a return to cruiserweight in pursuit of new challenges.
With his latest victory, Usyk cements his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of his generation, though credible opponents in the heavyweight division are becoming increasingly scarce.
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