In a highly anticipated rematch on December 21, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk secured a unanimous decision victory over Tyson Fury, retaining his WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles. The judges scored the bout 116-112 in favor of Usyk, reflecting his superior performance throughout the fight.
Fight Overview
From the opening bell, Usyk showcased exceptional footwork and hand speed, effectively neutralizing Fury’s reach and size advantage. He dominated the early rounds, landing precise combinations and evading Fury’s counters. Fury attempted to assert himself in the middle rounds, but Usyk’s relentless pace and tactical prowess kept him in control.
A pivotal moment occurred in the ninth round when Usyk delivered a powerful left hand, sending Fury into the ropes and earning a knockdown. Although Fury beat the count, he struggled to regain momentum in the subsequent rounds. Usyk maintained his dominance, outlanding Fury in both total punches and power shots, leading to the unanimous decision victory.
Post-Fight Reactions
Following the bout, Usyk expressed gratitude towards his team and country, stating, “Thank you so much to my team. It’s a big opportunity for me, for my family, for my country. Slava Ukraini!”
In contrast, Fury, visibly frustrated by the outcome, exited the ring promptly without participating in post-fight interviews. His promoter, Frank Warren, criticized the judges’ decision, describing it as “crazy” and “impossible” that Fury won only four rounds.
Implications for the Heavyweight Division
Usyk’s victory solidifies his status as one of the greatest heavyweight champions of the modern era. With an unblemished record of 23-0, he has now successfully defended his titles against one of the division’s most formidable opponents. This win opens the door for potential high-profile matchups in 2025, including a lucrative third bout with Fury.
For Fury, this defeat marks his second consecutive loss to Usyk, casting uncertainty over his future in the sport. Despite the setback, discussions about a possible rematch or other significant fights remain, as the heavyweight division continues to captivate boxing enthusiasts worldwide.
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