In a masterclass of skill and endurance, Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury by unanimous decision in a thrilling 12-round bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Ukrainian retained his heavyweight title, with all three judges scoring the fight 116-112 in his favor.
A Battle of Styles at the Highest Level
The highly anticipated clash lived up to expectations as two of boxing’s finest delivered a competitive and tactical battle. Fury, known for his size and reach, employed his jab effectively in the early rounds, taking a slight lead. However, Usyk’s precise counters and relentless pressure allowed him to take control in the middle rounds.
Round-by-Round Breakdown
| Round | Key Moments | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 | Fury controlled the early action with his jab and body shots, taking an early lead. | Fury |
| 4 | Usyk landed two big left hands, but Fury responded with powerful uppercuts, edging the round. | Fury |
| 5-6 | Fury landed heavy body shots, but Usyk began finding success with counters and overhand lefts. | Split |
| 7-9 | Usyk’s sustained pressure began to wear Fury down, with the Ukrainian taking control. | Usyk |
| 10-12 | Usyk dominated the championship rounds, using his movement and accuracy to outclass Fury. | Usyk |
Final Round Drama
The 12th round saw both fighters go all out, with Fury landing big shots as he switched to a southpaw stance. However, Usyk’s precise counterpunching and ability to avoid major damage secured the final points needed for victory.
Judges’ Scorecards
- All three judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Usyk.
With this victory, Usyk solidifies his place as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in history. Fury, despite the loss, remains a formidable presence in the division and will likely seek a rematch or a high-profile bout to reclaim his standing. For fans, the fight reaffirmed the brilliance of heavyweight boxing, as two of the sport’s legends delivered an unforgettable night.
