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Oleksandr Usyk has ascended to the throne of the boxing world, marking a historic achievement. The Ukrainian fighter became the third in the four-belt era to hold undisputed titles in two different weight classes, clinching a split-decision victory over Tyson Fury on Saturday night. Usyk added Fury's WBC and lineal heavyweight titles to his own WBA, WBO, and IBF belts, a feat last accomplished by Lennox Lewis in 1999 when only three major titles existed.
The journey to this triumph was arduous. Early in the fight, Fury's superior reach and flashy style kept Usyk at bay. However, Usyk persevered, shifting the momentum in the later rounds. The pivotal moment came in the ninth round when Usyk's left hook visibly stunned Fury, sending the giant staggering across the ring before he
eventually hit the canvas. Though Fury managed to continue, he was visibly shaken for the remainder of the bout. A high-stakes rematch is expected later this year, but the undisputed status will be affected as Usyk is set to lose his IBF title due to overdue mandatory defenses.
In other matches, Jai Opetaia reclaimed the cruiserweight title he had never lost in combat, defeating Mairis Briedis for the IBF title at 200 pounds. Opetaia remains unbeaten with a record of 25-0, including 19 knockouts. Additionally, Anthony Cacace delivered a major upset by stopping Joe Cordina to seize the IBF super featherweight title. Cacace dominated early, severely hurting Cordina, and maintained relentless pressure until the fight was halted.
Usyk, now a devoted father of four, shared an emotional reflection on his journey and his late father’s influence. Speaking through tears, he recalled a dream in which he conversed with his father, expressing the deep emotional struggle he feels when thinking of him. Usyk also recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to his father, revealing the personal motivations behind his victory.
After a grueling nine-month training camp, Usyk plans to return to his homeland, which remains in conflict. Before celebrating his victory, he intends to show gratitude in a moment of personal reverence, something he couldn’t do in the ring against Fury. His poetic words encapsulate his journey: "I know you are leading me the way you think is best for me. And, if I really deserve this, please grant me this victory."
Usyk reflected on his father's influence after the fight, saying, “He didn't come to me because the last time he came to me in my dream. I miss my father. I said to him, you live there, I live here, please don't come to me, I love you. For me, it's hard when my father comes to me because I remember how my life... I know he is here.”
SunSport reporter Wally Downes Jr asked Usyk about his father, prompting an emotional response. Usyk explained his grief, with many reporters in the room also moved to tears. Before departing to spend time with his family, Usyk shared a poem he had hinted at during the press conference: “I'm thankful you are here and thankful you are giving me the opportunity. I know you are leading me the way you think is best for me. And, if I really deserve this, please grant me this victory. I am not the principle, you are the principle and this is all for you, in your glory.”
As the former undisputed cruiserweight champion and now the undisputed heavyweight champion, Usyk has completed his mission. Before enjoying his victory, he intends to show his gratitude and respect in a way he never could against Fury: by surrendering to the higher power that guided him.
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