Rita Odafe
[wpcc-script type=”ab8d0fae6302c3903fbddbca-text/javascript”]
Tyson Fury experienced a split-decision points loss on a thrilling evening in Saudi Arabia, resulting in Oleksandr Usyk becoming the first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion in boxing history.
[wpcc-script type=”ab8d0fae6302c3903fbddbca-text/javascript”]
On a momentous stage and during a night that would define legacies, Fury started strong but faced a standing 10 count and was saved by the bell following an Usyk onslaught in the ninth round.
As the tension mounted while awaiting the scorecards, Fury seemed confident of his victory until a stoic Usyk burst into tears upon being declared the winner.
The judges’ scores were 115-112 and 114-113 in favor of the Ukrainian, with a third judge scoring it 114-113 for Fury.
This loss marked the first defeat in Fury’s 16-year professional career at the age of 35. A rematch is already in the works for later this year, offering Fury a chance at redemption.
“I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority,” a defiant Fury said in the ring.
“It was one of the daftest decisions in boxing. I’ll be back.”
Usyk takes the WBC belt from Fury, to add to his WBA, WBO and IBF collection.
The 37-year-old remains unbeaten and is the first boxer in almost 25 years to stand tall as the sport’s sole heavyweight world champion.
“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,” Usyk said.
“Yes, of course. I am ready for a rematch.”
[wpcc-script type=”ab8d0fae6302c3903fbddbca-text/javascript”]
