The first in history! Usyk defeats Fury and becomes the absolute heavyweight champion

Ukrainian WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO champion Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) defeated British WBC titleholder Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs) and became the first ever absolute champion in the heavyweight division in the four-belt era. The fight at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) ended with a split decision of 115:112, 113:114, 114:113.

In addition, Usyk, having defeated Fury, became a linear champion: a unique title is passed on in a row (linearly) from the loser to the winner.

The first round began with a kind of reconnaissance. Both boxers took the center of the ring without forcing the situation. The anthropometric advantage of the Briton was clearly visible. At the end of the round, Fury, huddled in the corner, began to joke around. Usyk hit his opponent in the head several times.

The second three minutes began with twi hits by Usyk. Fury kept Oleksandr at a distance, working more for the public than for the result. For the first time, the British fighter also worked the body. Tyson wasn't afraid to be cornered, taking all the attacks of our compatriot and waiting for a counterattack. Just before the bell, Oleksandr almost missed an uppercut.

In the third round, Fury turned on his footwork. Usyk had to constantly jump up to strike. Tyson's attacks looked much more dangerou, passing through the defense several times.

Tyson led the fourth segment. He tried to push the Ukrainian back with doubles, but then the fight returned to its usual rhythm as Usyk hunted for his opponent. Oleksandr missed a very nasty uppercut.

By the fifth round, Tyson Fury's strategy became clear: he relied on a punch from the bottom, waiting and aiming as much as possible. Gradually, the Ukrainian's side bodies brought results. In the last seconds before the gong, the Gypsy King threw two hooks at our fighter without defense.

By the fight's equator, Tyson was increasingly dominating the ring. Uppercuts and very heavy punches to the body knocked the Ukrainian out of breath. Our compatriot received a cut, and the katman demanded constant movement from the Crimean.

Both boxers chose the 7th round for a short rest without much development. Only at the very end of the round Oleksandr managed to punch the Briton.

In the 8th three minutes, both boxers started with powerful side kicks. Usyk was unable to develop combinations, but he did not give up. One of the Ukrainian's jumps finally reached the goal. Our boxer continued to develop the initiative, breaking nose to blood.

The 9th round was a real masterpiece from Usyk. Oleksandr got hit in the head and just started beating Fury. The latter was just saved by the ropes. The referee did not have time to count the knockdown.

In the 10th round, the fighter from Simferopol took a short break. It was obvious that his strength was not unlimited.

The championship rounds were difficult for both boxers. Oleksandr did not give up his attempts to knock out his opponent.

The judges deservedly appreciated all the work of the Ukrainian champion, giving him a split decision victory.

Immediately after the victory, Oleksandr was congratulated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko.

"Today, Usyk not only unified all the belts of professional boxing in the super-heavyweight division, winning the title of absolute world champion. Oleksandr proved once again that he is a fighter and showed the world that Ukrainians are capable of defeating a strong opponent. In a difficult fight. Congratulations, Oleksandr! This victory is very important for Ukraine today! Glory to Ukraine! Glory to those who defend it! And to those who glorify it!" Vitalii wrote. .

"Ukrainians hit hard! And in the end, all our opponents will be defeated. Oleksandr Usyk is the absolute world champion! A tough battle that proves that Ukrainian endurance and strength give birth to a Ukrainian victory. Congratulations, champion! Congratulations, country! Glory to Ukraine!!!" our president wrote.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!