Tyson Fury found himself uncertain about a potential rematch with Oleksandr Usyk following the loss of his unbeaten record in what many deemed one of boxing’s most significant bouts.
In Sunday’s clash, Fury, hailing from Britain, initially dominated the early rounds of the undisputed heavyweight showdown against the Ukrainian maestro. However, Usyk clinched a split decision victory, almost flooring Fury in the ninth round.
The defeat marked the first and only loss in Fury’s 36 professional fights, in a contest that marked the first heavyweight unification bout since 1999 and the debut in the four-belt era.
While a rematch clause was included in the fight contract, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and resulting in Usyk being crowned as the undisputed heavyweight champion, Fury remained non-committal about his next steps.
Post-fight, Fury, who relinquished his WBC belt to Usyk, already holding the IBF, WBA, and WBO titles, indicated he would deliberate the potential rematch, tentatively set for October, with his family.
“I’ll take a vacation, return home, discuss it with the wife and kids, and then make a decision,” shared the self-proclaimed ‘Gypsy King’ with reporters.
Approaching 36 years of age, Fury reflected on his extensive boxing career, pondering its future trajectory. “I’ve been boxing since childhood, so it is what it is,” he remarked. “Where does it all end? With a hundred fights and brain damage, confined to a wheelchair? I’m not certain.”
Yet, Fury’s passion for the sport persists. “As long as I continue to enjoy the game and have fun in the ring, I’ll keep going,” he affirmed, acknowledging his unpredictable history of retiring and returning to boxing.
While Usyk remains a potential rematch opponent, Fury also hinted at the allure of facing British adversary and former world champion Anthony Joshua. “I commend Oleksandr for the tough fight. It was a close call,” he admitted. “I believe I did just enough, but ultimately, I’m not the judge.”
