Oleksandr Usyk has secured a split decision victory over Tyson Fury, becoming the undisputed world heavyweight champion on Sunday.
Two judges scored the fight in favor of Usyk with scores of 115-113 and 114-113, while the third judge awarded it to Fury with a score of 114-113.
This victory marks the first undisputed world heavyweight championship in 25 years, a historic achievement in the era of four major boxing belts.
Initially, Tyson Fury was the aggressor, but Usyk gained control as the fight progressed. Fury was staggered in the ninth round but was saved by the bell before making a recovery.
Having been the undisputed cruiserweight champion, Usyk has now achieved the same status in the heavyweight division.
Despite feeling he deserved the win, Tyson Fury is ready for a rematch in October, a challenge Usyk is also eager to accept.
Following his victory, Usyk expressed his gratitude:
"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. Yes, of course. I am ready for a rematch."
Usyk now joins the ranks of boxing legends such as Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson as the undisputed heavyweight champion, the first since the sport recognized four major belts.
With this win, the former undisputed cruiserweight champion solidifies his claim as the best of this era.
The last undisputed heavyweight champion was Britain’s Lennox Lewis, who unified three belts by defeating Evander Holyfield in 1999.
