In a commanding performance, Oleksandr Usyk secured a unanimous decision victory against Tyson Fury in their heavyweight championship rematch, cementing his status as an undefeated champion across two divisions.
The Ukrainian, known for his precise left hook, dictated the pace throughout the match, leading all three judges to score the bout 116-112 in his favour on Saturday night. This win advances Usyk’s record to 23-0, including 14 knockouts, and furthers his legacy alongside Olympic gold and titles in the cruiserweight division.
Usyk praised Fury’s formidable challenge, reflecting on the intense 24 rounds that have marked a significant phase of his career. This victory reiterates his standing among boxing legends like Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis, particularly after defeating Fury in May when he became the undisputed heavyweight in the four-belt era.
🚨 AI Judges have scored Oleksandr Usyk as the winner in the rematch vs. Tyson Fury for 118-112.
This is the first time in history that AI judging has been used, but was not an official contributor towards the final decision. pic.twitter.com/Kz26X74H8p
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 21, 2024As a result, Fury holds a record of 34 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, and doubts about his career direction, particularly following a short retirement in 2022. While he maintains that he won both fights against Usyk, Fury is considering his next moves in boxing, voicing disappointment with the decisions made but hesitating to reveal his future intentions.
The rematch, part of Saudi Arabia’s investment in major sporting events, was as much a cultural spectacle as it was a contest of strength and strategy. After donning a festive outfit, Fury made a memorable entrance to Mariah Carey’s holiday classic, while Usyk appeared in traditional Cossack attire, emphasizing his cultural heritage.
Usyk defeated Tyson Fury in a rematch! Daniel Dubois challenged Usyk, and the Ukrainian accepted! 🥊
pic.twitter.com/dGWNWs7VQC
— tether.bet (@tether_bet) December 21, 2024Throughout the match, both fighters had their moments, with Fury using his reach advantage early on but Usyk taking control with aggressive tactics as the rounds progressed. The climax came in the 11th round when Usyk delivered a decisive combination, culminating with a sharp left hook to Fury’s face.
The victory was more than a personal triumph for Usyk; it resonated deeply with his homeland, Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly celebrated Usyk’s victory as a symbolic win for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts with Russia, underscoring the fight’s broader geopolitical significance.
Read: Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury to Become Undisputed Heavyweight Champion
The fight highlighted Usyk’s boxing prowess and showcased the lucrative nature of high-stakes boxing, with Usyk poised to receive the majority of a $190 million purse. This event also contributes to the ongoing debates about Saudi Arabia’s sports investments and the implications for its international image.
As Usyk and Fury contemplate their next moves, the boxing world watches eagerly, recognizing this match as pivotal in heavyweight boxing history.
