In a stunning showdown in Saudi Arabia, Tyson Fury suffered a split-decision points loss, paving the way for Oleksandr Usyk to secure boxing’s first four-belt undisputed heavyweight championship.
The high-stakes battle saw Fury dominate early on, but an intense assault from Usyk in the ninth round left Fury staggering, saved only by the bell.
Amid palpable tension, the scorecards were revealed, with Usyk clinching victory with scores of 115-112 and 114-113, while a third judge scored it 114-113 in favor of Fury.
For Fury, 35, it marked his first defeat in a 16-year professional career. However, he remains undeterred, with plans for an immediate rematch later this year.
“I believe I won the majority of the rounds,” Fury asserted defiantly. “It was one of the most absurd decisions in boxing. I will return.”
Usyk’s triumph means he adds the WBC belt to his existing WBA, WBO, and IBF titles. At 37, he remains undefeated and holds the distinction of being the sport’s sole heavyweight world champion, a feat not achieved in nearly 25 years.
Expressing gratitude to his team and acknowledging the significance of the moment for himself, his family, and his country, Usyk affirmed his readiness for a rematch, stating, “Yes, of course. I am ready for a rematch.”
