Oleksandr Usyk made history as the first undisputed world heavyweight champion of the 21st century, overcoming Tyson Fury in a gripping contest decided by a split decision early Sunday morning.
Usyk added Fury’s WBC title to his collection of IBF, WBA, and WBO belts after the judges scored the bout 115-112 and 114-113 in his favor, with one judge scoring 114-113 for Fury.
The fight was nearly ended in the ninth round when Fury, barely able to stand, was saved by the bell after receiving a standing count of eight.
The match was a display of both technical prowess and raw power, with momentum shifting dramatically in the eighth round.
Usyk’s dominant performance, highlighted by a precise right hook and a powerful left cross, left Fury visibly shaken and bloodied around his nose and left eye.
In the ninth round, Usyk unleashed an astonishing series of 14 consecutive punches, leaving Fury swaying and unsteady on his feet.
The referee, seeing Fury supported by the ropes, initiated an extended eight-count rather than stopping the fight.
Despite the onslaught, Fury demonstrated his renowned resilience in the subsequent rounds, but Usyk’s superior striking secured the 10th and 11th rounds.
Before the final round, Fury acknowledged Usyk’s skill by touching gloves and nodding in respect.
Usyk began the last round with a sharp combination, countered by two strong right hands from Fury.
However, Usyk’s relentless barrage of punches sealed his victory, concluding an exhilarating and masterful contest.
At the fight’s onset, both fighters displayed a moment of solemnity, crossing themselves in their respective corners as they prepared for the intense battle ahead.
The physical disparity was evident, with the taller Fury attempting to use his reach advantage.
Usyk, however, quickly found success with repeated body jabs and a powerful left hand near the end of the first round.
The second round saw Usyk delivering an impressive combination, while Fury landed a solid right uppercut and followed with heavy body shots, prompting roars from the crowd. Usyk maintained a fast pace, consistently pressuring Fury.
Usyk’s agility and skill were on full display as he moved fluidly, delivering quick strikes.
Fury landed a hard body shot in the third round, but Usyk retaliated with sharp punches in the fourth.
Fury’s unorthodox movement and body blows posed a significant challenge, particularly in the fifth round.
In the sixth round, Fury’s right uppercuts seemed to turn the tide, but Usyk’s resolve shone through.
Despite Fury’s dominance in the seventh, Usyk ended the round with precise combinations, setting the stage for his eventual triumph.
Fury, though valiant, suffered his first defeat in 36 professional fights.
Usyk, a 2012 Olympic champion and former undisputed cruiserweight champion, faced the daunting challenge of fighting a significantly heavier and taller opponent in Fury.
Yet, his technical mastery and unwavering determination led him to an undefeated professional record of 22 wins, marking the pinnacle of his illustrious career.
The last undisputed heavyweight champion was Lennox Lewis, who claimed the title by defeating Evander Holyfield in 1999.
Nearly 25 years later, both Lewis and Holyfield were present in Riyadh to witness Usyk’s remarkable victory.
While Fury’s bravery was commendable, Usyk’s performance solidified his place among the legendary heavyweight champions.
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