Oleksandr Usyk successfully defended his unified boxing heavyweight world titles with a decisive points victory over Tyson Fury on Saturday night at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena.
Usyk from Ukraine showcased his exceptional skill and determination, earning a unanimous decision as all three judges scored the fight 116-112 in his favor.
The bout, a rematch of their split-decision clash seven months ago, saw Usyk solidify his dominance against the previously unbeaten Fury. At 37, Usyk retained his WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO belts in a gripping encounter that highlighted the talent and resilience of both fighters.
Fury, 36, opened strongly, landing several impressive shots in the early rounds. However, Usyk’s superior work rate and precise combinations gradually tipped the contest in his favor. As the fight progressed, the Olympic gold medalist and former undisputed cruiserweight champion finished with a flourish, demonstrating the sharpness and resilience that secured his victory in their initial meeting.
“He [Tyson Fury] is a great fighter, a great opponent. These were unbelievable 24 rounds for my career. Thank you so much,” Usyk said after extending his unbeaten professional record to 23 wins.
Fury, visibly frustrated by the outcome, exited the ring immediately without giving a post-fight interview. Later, backstage, he expressed disbelief, claiming he had won the fight by “at least three rounds.” However, the judges’ unanimous decision underscored Usyk’s cleaner punches and tactical superiority.
The night concluded with IBF world champion Daniel Dubois entering the ring, calling for a rematch with Usyk after his loss to the Ukrainian last year. Despite the challenge, the spotlight firmly belonged to Usyk, whose performance reaffirmed his status as one of boxing’s greatest heavyweights.
The highly anticipated rematch delivered another enthralling 12-round battle, with Fury’s entrance—dressed as Santa Claus and accompanied by Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You—adding spectacle to the event. Though Fury displayed flashes of aggression, he could not overcome Usyk’s relentless pace and precision.
With this victory, Usyk cements his legacy, while questions remain about Fury’s next move in the heavyweight division.
