“Thank you so much... It’s a big opportunity for me, for my family, for my country... It’s a great time, it’s a great day,” Usyk said in a post-fight interview in the ring.
His victory is particularly notable as it unifies the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles, a feat that has eluded many greats in the heavyweight division and has never been achieved since these titles were concurrently recognized in 2007.
He is also the first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis' reign ended in April 2000.
This triumph not only underscores Usyk’s supreme skill, but also his ability to transcend typical boxing norms as he moved up from being an undisputed cruiserweight champion.
The fight itself was a tactical showcase, with the Ukrainian fighter employing his renowned agility and technical skill to counter Fury’s significant size and reach advantage.
Fury, known for his charismatic and unpredictable style, brought his usual flair to the fight, but it was Usyk’s discipline and precision that ultimately won the day.
Key moments in the fight included a critical ninth-round standing eight count, similar in gravity to a knockdown, that seemed to shift the momentum firmly in Usyk’s favor.
Usyk’s win also sets the stage for a potential rematch, as both boxers already have expressed their willingness to participate in a second fight.
Post-fight controversy
The fight did not go without its portion of controversy, as right after the fight, during his post-fight interview, Tyson Fury said that in his mind he won the match and that Usyk was chosen as the winner because of his Ukrainian nationality.
Tyson said: “I believe I won that fight, I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won a majority of them.”
He added: “We both put out a good fight, best we could do. And you know his country is at war, so people are siding for the country at war. Make no mistake I won that fight in my opinion, and I’ll be back, I’ve got a rematch clause.”
However, in a rare moment of unity, both fighters in their respective interviews, expressed their Christian faith, thanking Jesus Christ for everything that he has done for them so far.
