Oleksandr Usyk is the new undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World.
Usyk defeated Tyson Fury, the WBC Heavyweight Champion, by split decisions across 12 rounds in a thrilling fight on Saturday, allowing him to unify the WBO, WBA, IBF, and WBC championship belts.
The fight was scored 115-112 to Usyk, 114-113 to Fury, and 114-113 to Usyk by judges Manuel Palomo, Craig Metcalfe, and Mike Fitzgerald respectively, resulting in a win for Usyk.
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Despite being at a size disadvantage, Usyk produced a strong performance in Saudi Arabia’s desert. Usyk’s onslaught in the 9th round was particularly notable, causing Fury to lean on the rope on multiple occasions and stagger across the ring.
An emotional Usyk, bruised and stitched up, dedicated the victory to his late father. “I miss my father. I know he’s here,” Usyk said, breaking down in tears.
Usyk had previously defeated Nigerian Anthony Joshua twice, first by unanimous decision and then by split decision to win the WBO, WBA and IBF belts.
Usky’s victory in Riyadh means he has outboxed the two top heavyweight fighters in his journey to unify the belts, despite the size disadvantage.
Fury disclosed his eagerness to activate the rematch clause in the fight contract, saying “His country is at war so people are siding with someone whose country is at war. I won that fight.”
