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Oleksandr Usyk has defended his unified heavyweight world titles with a close points victory over Tyson Fury in their rematch at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh on Saturday.
The Ukrainian champion, 37, retained his WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO belts after all three judges scored the fight 116-112 in his favour.
Having edged Fury by split decision in their first bout in May, Usyk once again showcased his tactical brilliance and resilience to overcome the Briton, who used his physical advantages to make an early impact.
Fury’s strong startFury, 36, made his presence felt in the opening rounds, landing powerful shots, including a key strike in the second that briefly wobbled Usyk. With a height advantage of six inches and a four-stone weight difference, Fury looked to dominate with his size and aggression.
However, Usyk’s precise combinations and bodywork allowed him to regain control in the middle rounds. Two left hooks in the fourth and a clean overhand left in the sixth were standout moments in his resurgence.
Usyk finishes strongFury found a second wind and edged the ninth round, but Usyk closed the fight strongly, landing a sublime combination in the 11th that left Fury momentarily vulnerable.
After the decision was announced, Fury, clearly frustrated, left the ring without giving an interview. Backstage, he claimed to have won the fight by “at least three rounds.”
Gracious in victoryUsyk praised his opponent in a post-fight interview. “He [Fury] is a great fighter and a great opponent. These were two unbelievable fights for my career,” he said.
The rematch, billed as “reignited,” attracted high-profile spectators, including boxing legends Lennox Lewis and Roberto Duran, as well as actor Jason Statham and model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
What’s next for Fury and Usyk?The result leaves Fury at a crossroads in his career, with back-to-back losses to Usyk tarnishing his previously undefeated professional record.
Meanwhile, Usyk faces potential challenges from IBF champion Daniel Dubois, who entered the ring post-fight to demand a rematch, and a possible move back to cruiserweight.
Usyk’s legacy as one of the era’s finest fighters is secure, but with few credible opponents left, his next steps could redefine his illustrious career.
