Tears streamed down Oleksandr Usyk's face as he achieved what many thought was impossible. On a historic night at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the 37-year-old Ukrainian southpaw dethroned Tyson Fury by split decision, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion of this century and of the four-belt era.
The Clash of Titans
Usyk, who reigned supreme in the cruiserweight division, entered the ring with the Ring Magazine, WBA, IBF, and WBO belts. His opponent, Tyson Fury, brought the WBC title into the match. The bout was a thrilling spectacle, with Usyk (22-0, 14 knockouts) edging out Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) thanks to a crucial technical knockdown in Round 9.
Judges Manuel Oliver Palermo (115-112) and Mike Fitzgerald (114-113) scored in Usyk’s favor, while judge Craig Metcalfe had it 114-113 for Fury. This split decision reflected the closely contested nature of the fight, where each round brought new twists and turns.
Early Rounds: Usyk Takes the Lead
In the opening minutes, the fighters tested each other’s defenses. Fury used his size to jab at Usyk, but Usyk responded with a sharp left in the final seconds of the first round. Usyk’s tactical approach became evident in the second round as he landed quick combinations and smartly navigated Fury’s reach.
By the third round, Usyk’s aggression started to pay off. He closed the distance effectively and landed several significant shots, despite Fury's attempts to dominate with his jab and uppercuts.
Middle Rounds: Fury Fights Back
Fury began to find his rhythm in the fourth round, using his jab and powerful uppercuts to create openings. A slip by Usyk and a well-placed right uppercut signaled that Fury was gaining momentum. By the sixth round, Fury appeared to have taken control, landing body shots and uppercuts that seemed to slow Usyk down.
Round 9: The Turning Point
The ninth round proved pivotal. Usyk landed a substantial left hook that rocked Fury, who staggered into the ropes. The referee ruled it a technical knockdown, which turned the tide in Usyk's favor. This round was Usyk’s best since the early part of the fight and set the stage for his final push.
Final Rounds: Usyk Seals the Victory
Usyk maintained his aggression in the tenth and eleventh rounds, stalking Fury and landing precise shots. Despite Fury's attempts to counter, Usyk's relentless pressure and superior conditioning shone through.
In the final round, both fighters, exhausted but determined, exchanged blows. As the final bell sounded, Usyk fell to his knees, looking to the heavens, overwhelmed with emotion.
A Historic Achievement
“It is a great time, a great day,” Usyk said, reflecting on his historic win. This victory not only crowned him the undisputed heavyweight champion but also symbolized hope and resilience for his war-torn homeland.
Usyk's achievement is a testament to his skill, strategy, and unyielding spirit, inspiring fans worldwide and cementing his legacy in boxing history.
