Fury blames Ukraine war for defeat by Usyk, now first undisputed heavyweight Champion in 25 years

…. Rematch in October

Tyson Fury suffered a split-decision points defeat against Oleksandr Usyk, who has made history by becoming boxing’s first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion. The highly anticipated bout, which took place on a grand stage, saw Fury start strong but face significant challenges as the fight progressed.

Fury, 35, initially performed well but experienced a turning point in the ninth round when he was given a standing 10 count and narrowly saved by the bell after a powerful onslaught from Usyk. The tension in the arena was palpable as the fight went to the judges’ scorecards.

In a dramatic wait for the decision, Fury appeared confident of victory. However, the final scorecards revealed a different outcome: two judges scored the fight in favor of Usyk, with scores of 115-112 and 114-113, while the third judge scored it 114-113 for Fury. This handed Fury his first professional defeat in a 16-year career.

Usyk, 37, who remains unbeaten, was visibly emotional when announced as the winner, breaking down in tears. He took the WBC belt from Fury, adding it to his existing WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, thereby solidifying his place as the undisputed heavyweight champion for the first time in nearly 25 years.

Fury, defiant in defeat, expressed his belief that he had won the majority of the rounds, calling the decision “one of the daftest decisions in boxing.” He vowed to return stronger and mentioned the planned rematch for later this year as an immediate opportunity for redemption.

Usyk, gracious in victory, thanked his team and highlighted the significance of the win for himself, his family, and his country. He also confirmed his readiness for a rematch, setting the stage for another highly anticipated clash between the two heavyweights.

TYSON FURY REACTS TO THE DEFEAT

Fury attributed the judges’ decision to the ongoing war in Ukraine, suggesting that sympathy for Usyk’s home country influenced the outcome. He stated, “I believe I won that fight, I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority of them. We both put on a good fight. His country is at war, so people are siding with the country at war.” Fury also expressed his intention to exercise the rematch clause, saying, “We run it back in October. Well done, Oleksandr.”

Usyk, on the other hand, expressed deep gratitude and emotion following his victory. He dedicated his win to his supporters, his country, and the Ukrainian soldiers and families affected by the war. Reflecting on his long-term preparation for this moment, Usyk said, “Since 2008 I was planning for this. It’s not for my win, it’s for my God, my supporters, my country, the Ukrainian soldiers, Ukrainian mothers and fathers, children. I want to go to my home, I want to rest, a break, I want to eat, sleep, kiss my wife.”

The rematch between Fury and Usyk is scheduled for October 12th/13th, promising another exciting chapter in their rivalry.