Usyk Defeats Fury to Claim Undisputed Heavyweight Championship
Oleksandr Usyk emerged victorious in a dramatic split decision over Tyson Fury, becoming the undisputed heavyweight boxing world champion in an electrifying bout at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh early Sunday morning.
Despite being significantly smaller than his formidable opponent, Usyk demonstrated remarkable resilience. After a challenging middle phase, he mounted a powerful comeback, forcing Fury to take a standing count in the ninth round, ultimately securing his historic win.
The 37-year-old Ukrainian’s triumph marks him as the first boxer to hold all four major heavyweight belts simultaneously, and the first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis in April 2000.
Usyk dominated the initial rounds, but Fury found his rhythm in the fourth, displaying his trademark showmanship and landing punishing body shots. However, Usyk’s relentless counterattacks reminded everyone of his formidable power.
The turning point came in the eighth round, setting the stage for a near stoppage in the ninth as Usyk’s headshots left Fury staggering. The previously undefeated Briton managed to last until the final bell but struggled in the concluding rounds, with Usyk’s relentless pursuit tipping the judges’ scorecards in his favour.
“Thank you so much. It’s a big opportunity for me, for my family, for my country. It’s a great time, it’s a great day,” an emotional Usyk said post-fight, promising Fury an immediate rematch.
In the co-main event, Australia’s Jai Opetaia claimed the vacant IBF cruiserweight title with a unanimous decision over Latvia’s Mairis Briedis. Additionally, Ireland’s Anthony Cacace retained his IBO super-featherweight title and secured the IBF belt with a TKO victory over Wales’ Joe Cordina.
