Tyson Fury experienced a dramatic split-decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia, as the Ukrainian made history by becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion with four belts.
On this significant night, Fury started strong but faced a standing 10 count in the ninth round after an intense attack from Usyk, saved only by the bell.
The judges’ scorecards read 115-112 and 114-113 in favor of Usyk, while the third judge gave a 114-113 decision to Fury.
This marked Fury’s first defeat in his 16-year professional career at age 35.
A rematch is set for later this year, giving him a chance to reclaim his title.
“I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority,” Fury stated defiantly in the ring. “It was one of the daftest decisions in boxing. I’ll be back.”
Usyk, 37, added the WBC belt to his WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, maintaining his unbeaten record and becoming the first sole heavyweight world champion in nearly 25 years.
“Thank you so much to my team. It’s a big opportunity for my family, for me, for my country. It’s a great time, it’s a great day,” Usyk said. “Yes, of course. I am ready for a rematch.”
Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight world champion, won the bout at Riyadh’s Kingdom Arena, solidifying his status as a potential all-time great.
The undercard was met with little fanfare, typical for a Saudi event, but a crowd of 20,000, including celebrities like Cristiano Ronaldo, roared during the main event.
Usyk entered the arena in a striking all-green traditional Ukrainian outfit, his eyes fixed on the ring. In contrast, Fury sang and danced to Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Holding Out For A Hero,’ playfully taunting Usyk as he entered the ring to the delight of 2,500 British fans.
As the fight commenced, the long-awaited showdown to crown an undisputed champion began. Usyk landed a solid left hook early, but Fury responded with powerful uppercuts to Usyk’s midriff.
Despite Fury’s height and reach advantage, Usyk found his rhythm in the sixth round, landing effective left hands. Fury’s team urged him to work harder as Usyk’s punches began to take their toll.
In the eighth round, Usyk’s relentless left hands left Fury dazed and staggering, needing a 10 count to recover before the bell rang.
Contrary to expectations of a tactical match, the bout turned into a thrilling battle, living up to the hype. Usyk landed another powerful left hand in the 11th, and the pair touched gloves before the final round, with everything still at stake.
Usyk’s spirited performance in the last round may have clinched his historic victory, cementing his place in boxing history.
