Oleksandr Usyk has defeated the British boxing star Tyson Fury and become the boxing’s first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
Fury suffered a split-decision points defeat on a dramatic match in Saudi Arabia although he dominated the opening rounds.
Usyk had 115-112 and 114-113 on two scorecards read, while Fury took the other 114-113.
Usyk’s victory marks the first loss for Fury in a 16-year professional career.
After the final round, there was mutual respect between both fighters who were awaiting the final result of the match.
However, once Usyk was named the victor, Fury saw red.
He could not imagine that he might lose this match. He even disputed his loss after the match, saying: “I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority,” reported BBC.
“His country is at war, so people are siding with the country at war. Make no mistake, I won that fight in my opinion.” Fury shouted.
In a historic moment, Usyk has received the WBC belt from Fury, to add to his WBA, WBO and IBF collection.
Thus, the Ukrainian Usyk became the first boxer to hold all four major heavyweight belts at the same time and the first undisputed champion in 24 years.
“Thank you so much to my team. It’s a big opportunity for my family, for me, for my country. It’s a great time, it’s a great day,” a tearful Usyk said in a post-fight interview in the ring.
This match is part of Riyadh Season‘s events, that captivate sport lovers across the world and attract sponsorships from some of the region’s most prominent companies.
Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia’s Entertainment Authority announced a long-term strategic partnership with UFC to host another UFC event in the Kingdom during the 2024-2025 Riyadh Season.
Furthermore, the Saudi city of Jeddah will host King and Queen of the Ring on May 25, held by WWE.
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