Oleksandr Usyk triumphed over Tyson Fury by split decision, becoming the undisputed heavyweight world champion. The Mirror highlighted Usyk’s dramatic second-half comeback, which secured him the prestigious title.
Fury, who dominated the early rounds with his flamboyant antics, seemed unfazed by the fight’s significance. Despite his early showboating, Usyk’s relentless effort turned the tide in the latter half. In the ninth round, a powerful surge from Usyk left Fury hanging on the ropes, prompting the referee to issue a count.
Struggling to regain control, Fury appeared relieved to hear the final bell. However, his respite was short-lived as Usyk was declared the winner by split decision, making him the division’s first undisputed champion in 25 years.
Fury, defending his world title for the fourth time, entered the ring 40 pounds heavier and six inches taller than Usyk. As they touched gloves, Fury confidently told Usyk he was “going to school.” From the start, Fury taunted Usyk, lying back on the ropes and even punching himself in the head.
The second round saw Usyk land a one-two combination, while Fury targeted the body and ended the round with an uppercut. Fury, often fighting on the back foot, used his size to lean on Usyk. Switching to southpaw in the fourth round, Fury prematurely celebrated after landing a backhand.
Despite Fury’s reach advantage, Usyk struggled to close the distance but persisted. By the sixth round, Fury appeared in control, with Usyk showing signs of fatigue. Fury, now on the offensive, taunted Usyk with his hands behind his back.
Among the 28,000 spectators were Cristiano Ronaldo, Anthony Joshua, Turki Alalshikh, Steven Gerrard, and Neymar, all witnessing Fury’s early dominance.
However, Usyk rallied in the seventh round with powerful left-hand shots. Fury responded immediately but faced increasing pressure. In the eighth round, Usyk chased Fury, demanding a brawl. Usyk’s vigorous efforts peaked in the ninth round when a left hand left Fury stunned and reeling, held up only by the ropes. The referee’s count allowed Fury to continue, but Usyk sensed victory.
Although Fury had previously recovered from knockdowns, he appeared vulnerable. Despite regaining some composure by the penultimate round, Usyk’s momentum remained strong. In the final round, neither fighter took decisive action, leaving the outcome to the judges.
Ultimately, Usyk’s persistence and skill earned him the split decision victory, as reported by The Mirror.