Heavyweight boxing:

Usyk successfully defends belt against Fury

Oleksandr Usyk (r.) remains heavyweight world champion.

(Bild: AP ( via APA) Austria Presse Agentur/ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Oleksandr Usyk remains the measure of all things in heavyweight boxing. The 37-year-old Ukrainian also won the rematch against Britain's Tyson Fury unanimously on points and successfully defended his WBC, WBA and WBO world titles. Usyk, now undefeated in 23 professional fights, was once again able to rely on his boxing class and physical fitness in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh.

However, Fury, who sported a full beard, proved to be a tough challenger who was also able to land a few punches on the favorite. The 36-year-old then thought he was the winner. "I can only fight with all my strength and do my best, but I will always believe until the day I die that I won the fight."

However, the judges saw it differently. Seven months after winning their first duel, Usyk also caused Fury's second defeat in his 37th career fight. Former boxing stars Wladimir Klitschko and Lennox Lewis were also among the spectators.

Selenskyj and Witali Klitschko congratulate
Usyk received congratulations from home. "Victory! So important and so necessary for all of us now," wrote President Volodymyr Selenskyj on Telegram. By defending his world championship belt, Usyk had demonstrated that the Ukrainians would not give up what belonged to them, the president explained in his congratulatory letter. Former heavyweight champion Vitaly Klitschko, who is now the mayor of Kiev, spoke of a "worthy and brilliant victory". It was one of the most spectacular rematches in the history of boxing.

Tyson Fury (l.) and Oleksandr Usyk

(Bild: AFP/APA)

In May, following his victory against Fury, Usyk was crowned "Undisputed Champion" for the first time since Lennox Lewis more than 25 years ago - he secured all the world titles of the major world associations. However, because he did not defend his title, the IBF belt has since been awarded to Britain's Daniel Dubois.

Quiet criticism of Saudi Arabia
Both boxers were paid millions for the rematch. In addition to the fight purses, the duel was also accompanied by disagreements about the venue. Saudi Arabia, which is criticized for its human rights situation, is also trying to improve its image by hosting major sporting events. In the boxing scene, however, this is viewed less critically.