Oleksandr Usyk defended his unified world heavyweight title with a close victory over Tyson Fury in their rematch at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday.
The Ukrainian champion, 37, retained his WBA (Super), WBC and WBO belts after all three judges scored the fight 116-112 in his favour.
Having overcome Fury by a split decision in their first bout in May, Usyk once again showed his tactical brilliance and resilience to overcome the Briton, who used his physical advantages to make an early impact.
Strong start by Fury
Fury, 36, made his presence felt in the early rounds, landing powerful shots, including a key jab in the second that briefly rocked Usyk. With a six-inch height advantage and a four-stone weight difference, Fury seemed to dominate with his size and aggression.
However, Usyk’s accurate combinations and bodywork allowed him to regain control in the middle rounds. Two left hooks in the fourth and a clean overhand left in the sixth were standout moments in his revival.
Usyk finishes strong
Fury found a second wind and won the ninth round, but Usyk closed the fight strongly, landing a superb combination in the 11th that left Fury momentarily vulnerable.
After the decision was announced, Fury, visibly disappointed, left the ring without giving an interview. Backstage, he claimed to have won the fight by “at least three rounds”.
Gentle in victory
Usyk praised his opponent in a post-fight interview. “He [Fury] he is a great fighter and a great opponent. Those were two incredible races for my career,” he said.
The rematch, described as “igniting”, attracted high-profile spectators including boxing legends Lennox Lewis and Roberto Duran, as well as actor Jason Statham and model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
What’s next for Fury and Usyk?
The result leaves Fury at a crossroads in his career, with back-to-back losses to Usyk tarnishing his previously unbeaten professional record.
Meanwhile, Usyk faces potential challenges from IBF champion Daniel Dubois, who entered the ring after the fight to demand a rematch and a possible move to cruiserweight.
Usyk’s legacy as one of the best fighters of the era is secure, but with few credible opponents remaining, his next steps could redefine his illustrious career.
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