Published on December 23, 2024, in Benue, Nigeria
By Inyima Nicholas Sunday
The highly anticipated rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury took place on December 21, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Usyk successfully defended his unified heavyweight titles, defeating Fury by unanimous decision. All three judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of the Ukrainian champion. This decisive victory solidifies Usyk’s place among boxing’s all-time greats and marks Fury’s second consecutive loss to his rival.
You may like to read: The Result Of The Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury Rematch
The bout delivered an electrifying clash of styles and strategies. Fury initially used his size and reach advantage, landing powerful jabs and right hands to control the early rounds. However, Usyk’s agility, speed, and focus on body shots began to wear Fury down. By the later rounds, Usyk’s precise left hand dominated the exchanges, as Fury struggled under the relentless pace. Statistically, Usyk landed 179 of 423 punches (42% accuracy), while Fury connected on 144 of 509 attempts (28% accuracy). Usyk’s efficiency proved pivotal in swaying the judges’ verdict.
This victory comes seven months after their first meeting, where Usyk edged out Fury by split decision. With this rematch, Usyk has further cemented his legacy as the reigning WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO heavyweight champion. Reflecting on his win, Usyk praised his opponent, stating, “Tyson is a great fighter and a tough challenger. These 24 rounds have been some of the toughest of my career.”
For Fury, the back-to-back losses mark a significant turning point in his career. Having remained unbeaten for over a decade before his initial defeat to Usyk, questions now loom over his future in the sport. Despite the outcome, Fury maintained that he believed he had controlled much of the fight. “I still feel I did enough to win,” he remarked during a post-fight interview.
The rematch has reignited speculation about a potential trilogy. Both fighters have delivered thrilling performances that captivated fans worldwide, with each bout considered a contender for Fight of the Year. As the heavyweight division evolves, Usyk’s remarkable adaptability and resilience stand as a testament to boxing’s enduring competitive spirit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Who Won the Rematch Between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury?
Oleksandr Usyk emerged victorious in the highly anticipated rematch against Tyson Fury, solidifying his dominance in the heavyweight division. The fight took place on December 21, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Usyk won by unanimous decision. The judges scored the bout 116-112 across the board, reflecting Usyk’s control of the fight. This marked Usyk’s second consecutive victory over Fury, following their initial encounter earlier in the year, where Usyk secured a split-decision win. In this rematch, Usyk’s speed, agility, and precise counterpunching allowed him to outclass Fury, particularly in the later rounds. The victory further cemented Usyk’s reputation as one of the greatest boxers of his generation and a master tactician in the ring.
2. What Was the Outcome of the Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury Rematch?
The rematch concluded with Oleksandr Usyk retaining his WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles through a unanimous decision victory. While Tyson Fury showcased his renowned resilience and skill, Usyk’s precision and conditioning ultimately secured the win. The judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Usyk, a score that reflected his ability to adapt and control key moments of the match. Usyk’s superior accuracy and footwork allowed him to outmaneuver Fury in the later rounds, even as Fury attempted to use his size and reach to his advantage. The outcome further established Usyk as the dominant force in the heavyweight division and reaffirmed his mastery over one of the most skilled heavyweights of the era.
3. When and Where Did the Usyk vs Tyson Fury Rematch Take Place?
The Usyk vs Tyson Fury rematch was held on December 21, 2024, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This state-of-the-art venue, known for hosting high-profile sporting events, provided an ideal setting for one of the most anticipated boxing matches of the year. Riyadh has become a focal point for international sports, and the fight attracted fans and analysts from around the world. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators witnessing a clash between two heavyweight titans in a luxurious and modern arena that showcased the grandeur of boxing at its highest level.
4. How Did Oleksandr Usyk Defeat Tyson Fury in the Rematch?
Usyk defeated Fury through a combination of speed, accuracy, and relentless pressure. In the early rounds, Fury used his size and reach effectively, landing strong jabs and controlling the distance. However, Usyk adjusted quickly, targeting Fury’s body to sap his stamina. By the middle rounds, Usyk began to dictate the pace of the fight, using his superior footwork and counterpunching skills. His left hand became a decisive weapon, landing clean shots as Fury tired under the Ukrainian’s relentless attack. In the later rounds, Usyk dominated the exchanges, outlanding Fury with precision punches. His tactical brilliance and superior conditioning ultimately led to a unanimous decision victory.
5. What Were the Judges’ Scores in the Usyk vs Fury Rematch?
The judges unanimously scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Oleksandr Usyk. These scores reflected Usyk’s ability to control key moments of the fight, particularly in the later rounds, where his precision and endurance overshadowed Fury’s early successes. While Fury had strong moments, particularly in the first half of the fight, the judges’ scores acknowledged Usyk’s cleaner punches, superior accuracy, and strategic dominance. This unanimous decision highlighted Usyk’s mastery over Fury in their rematch.
6. How Many Rounds Were in the Usyk vs Tyson Fury Rematch?
The rematch lasted 12 rounds, the standard for championship boxing matches. Both fighters pushed through the full distance, delivering a thrilling and competitive bout. While Fury started strong in the early rounds, Usyk’s superior stamina and tactical adjustments allowed him to take control in the later stages. The 12 rounds showcased the resilience and skill of both fighters, with Usyk ultimately emerging as the victor through a unanimous decision.
7. What Strategies Did Oleksandr Usyk Use Against Tyson Fury?
Oleksandr Usyk’s strategy centered on speed, accuracy, and sustained pressure. He neutralized Fury’s size and reach advantage by focusing on body shots in the early rounds, wearing down Fury’s stamina. Usyk’s footwork was critical, as he constantly moved to create angles and avoid Fury’s power punches. By the later rounds, Usyk shifted his focus to precision punching, using his left hand to land clean, impactful shots. His relentless pace and ability to adapt to Fury’s tactics ensured his control of the fight and ultimately secured his victory.
8. How Did Tyson Fury Perform in the Usyk Rematch?
Tyson Fury started the fight strong, utilizing his size and reach to land powerful jabs and control the early exchanges. However, as the fight progressed, Fury began to tire under Usyk’s relentless pace and body shots. While Fury displayed moments of brilliance and resilience, he struggled to maintain his momentum in the later rounds. His accuracy dropped, and he was unable to effectively counter Usyk’s speed and precision. Despite his best efforts, Fury ultimately fell short in the judges’ eyes, losing by unanimous decision.
9. What Were the Punch Statistics in the Usyk vs Fury Rematch?
Punch statistics played a crucial role in highlighting Usyk’s dominance. He landed 179 of 423 punches thrown, achieving an accuracy rate of 42%. In comparison, Fury landed 144 of his 509 punches, with an accuracy rate of 28%. These numbers demonstrate Usyk’s efficiency and precision, particularly in the later rounds where his clean punches swayed the judges. Usyk’s superior accuracy and volume were pivotal in securing the unanimous decision victory.
10. What Impact Does the Rematch Have on Usyk’s Legacy?
The rematch further solidifies Oleksandr Usyk’s status as one of the greatest heavyweights in boxing history. By defeating Tyson Fury for the second time, Usyk proved his ability to adapt and excel against a larger, more physically imposing opponent. Retaining his WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO titles reinforces his dominance in the division. This victory, coupled with his undefeated record and success across multiple weight classes, cements Usyk’s legacy as a versatile and formidable champion.
11. Did Tyson Fury Announce Retirement After the Usyk Rematch?
Tyson Fury has not officially announced his retirement following the rematch, but speculation about his future in boxing is growing. The back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, including the unanimous decision in the rematch, have sparked debates among fans and analysts about whether Fury will continue his career. Fury, who had previously retired and made a comeback, expressed frustration with the outcome of the fight but did not commit to any decision about his next steps. While some believe Fury still has more to prove and could aim for redemption in a potential trilogy with Usyk, others feel the defeats might prompt him to retire from the sport for good. The coming months will likely determine whether Fury continues his legendary career or steps away from the ring once and for all.
12. Will There Be a Trilogy Fight Between Usyk and Fury?
A trilogy fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury is a strong possibility, given the compelling rivalry between the two fighters. With Usyk winning both encounters, Fury may seek redemption and an opportunity to reclaim his place in the heavyweight division. Fans and promoters alike are eager for another showdown, as both bouts have delivered high drama, strategic brilliance, and intense competition. However, a trilogy fight depends on several factors, including Fury’s willingness to return to the ring and Usyk’s future plans. Usyk’s camp may also consider other challengers in the heavyweight division, making the timing of a potential third fight crucial. Regardless, a trilogy would likely draw massive global interest and could cement this rivalry as one of the greatest in boxing history.
13. How Does Usyk’s Second Win Over Fury Compare to the First Fight?
Usyk’s second win over Fury was more decisive than their first encounter. In their initial fight, Usyk secured a split-decision victory, with one judge scoring the bout in favor of Fury. The rematch, however, ended in a unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring it 116-112 for Usyk. This difference underscores Usyk’s ability to adapt and refine his strategy. In the rematch, Usyk was more precise, landing cleaner punches and dominating the later rounds. Fury, while competitive, struggled with fatigue and could not sustain the early momentum he had in the first fight. Usyk’s superior conditioning and tactical adjustments highlighted his growth as a fighter and his ability to cement his dominance over Fury.
14. What Titles Did Oleksandr Usyk Retain After the Rematch?
After defeating Tyson Fury in the rematch, Oleksandr Usyk retained the WBA (Super), WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles. These prestigious belts affirm Usyk’s position as the reigning unified heavyweight champion. Retaining these titles against a formidable opponent like Fury solidifies Usyk’s standing as one of the most dominant figures in the heavyweight division. In addition to his titles, Usyk’s victory adds to his legacy as a fighter who has conquered multiple divisions and remained undefeated throughout his professional career.
15. What Did Usyk and Fury Say After Their Rematch?
After the fight, Oleksandr Usyk expressed gratitude for his victory and praised Tyson Fury as a skilled and tough opponent. “He’s a great fighter, and these 24 rounds are some of the toughest in my career,” Usyk remarked. He also thanked his team and fans for their support. Tyson Fury, on the other hand, was visibly frustrated with the outcome. In a post-fight interview, Fury stated that he believed he had done enough to win the fight and expressed disappointment with the judges’ decision. Despite his frustration, Fury acknowledged the competitiveness of the bout, hinting that he might not be done with the rivalry.
16. Was the Usyk vs Fury Rematch a Fight of the Year Contender?
Yes, the Usyk vs Fury rematch is widely regarded as a Fight of the Year contender for 2024. The bout delivered on its promise of high stakes and intense competition, showcasing the contrasting styles and strategies of two elite heavyweights. From Fury’s powerful start to Usyk’s precise and relentless performance in the later rounds, the fight kept fans on the edge of their seats. The technical brilliance and physical resilience displayed by both fighters made it a memorable event in boxing history. Its dramatic narrative and global impact further solidify its status as one of the standout bouts of the year.
17. What Were the Most Memorable Moments in the Rematch?
The rematch between Usyk and Fury was filled with memorable moments that thrilled fans. One standout moment was Fury’s early dominance, where he effectively used his size and reach to land powerful jabs and combinations. However, the tide began to shift in the middle rounds when Usyk’s body shots slowed Fury down. Another key highlight was Usyk’s precision with his left hand in the later rounds, which consistently landed cleanly and visibly frustrated Fury. The dramatic intensity of the final round, where both fighters pushed their limits, was another unforgettable aspect of the fight. These moments encapsulated the skill, heart, and determination of both boxers.
18. How Did Fans and Analysts React to the Usyk vs Fury Rematch?
Fans and analysts widely praised the Usyk vs Fury rematch for its tactical brilliance and competitive spirit. Many applauded Usyk’s performance, noting his superior conditioning and ability to adapt to Fury’s initial game plan. Fans were impressed by the high level of skill on display, with some calling it one of the best heavyweight fights of recent years. However, reactions to Fury’s performance were mixed. While some commended his resilience and early success, others criticized his inability to maintain stamina and adjust to Usyk’s relentless pace. Overall, the fight was celebrated as a spectacle that lived up to its massive hype.
19. What Does the Rematch Mean for Tyson Fury’s Career?
The rematch has significant implications for Tyson Fury’s career. Once considered invincible, Fury’s back-to-back losses to Usyk have shaken his standing in the heavyweight division. The defeats raise questions about whether Fury can reclaim his dominance or if his best days are behind him. Despite the setbacks, Fury’s legacy as a former world champion and one of the most charismatic figures in boxing remains intact. A potential trilogy with Usyk or a fight against another top contender could provide an opportunity for redemption. However, if Fury chooses to retire, his career will still be remembered as one of the most impactful in heavyweight history.
20. Why Is the Usyk vs Fury Rivalry Important in Heavyweight Boxing?
The Usyk vs Fury rivalry represents one of the most significant matchups in modern heavyweight boxing. It showcases a clash of styles—Usyk’s speed, precision, and technical skill versus Fury’s size, power, and unorthodox approach. Their bouts have not only delivered high-level competition but also reignited global interest in the heavyweight division. With both fighters boasting impressive legacies and contrasting personalities, their rivalry has drawn massive attention from fans worldwide. This rivalry has elevated the sport, highlighting the strategic and physical demands of heavyweight boxing while providing fans with unforgettable moments.
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