Tyson Fury made a stunning allegation against the Judges after suffering a split-decision points defeat on a dramatic night in Saudi Arabia as Oleksandr Usyk became boxing’s first four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion.
In a tense wait for the scorecards to be read out, Fury appeared convinced of victory before a stony-faced Usyk broke down in tears when he was confirmed as the winner.
The scorecards read 115-112 and 114-113 for the Ukrainian, with a third judge scoring it 114-113 to Fury.
In his post-bout comments, Fury attributed the judges’ decision to the ongoing war in Ukraine, suggesting that sympathy for Usyk’s home country influenced the outcome.
READ MORE: Oleksandr Usyk becomes UNDISPUTED Boxing Heavyweight Champion
He stated, “I believe I won that fight, I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority of them. We both put on a good fight. His country is at war, so people are siding with the country at war.” Fury also expressed his intention to exercise the rematch clause, saying, “We run it back in October. Well done, Oleksandr.”
Usyk, on the other hand, expressed deep gratitude and emotion following his victory.
He dedicated his win to his supporters, his country, and the Ukrainian soldiers and families affected by the war. Reflecting on his long-term preparation for this moment, Usyk said, “Since 2008 I was planning for this. It’s not for my win, it’s for my God, my supporters, my country, the Ukrainian soldiers, Ukrainian mother and father, children. I want to go to my home, I want to rest, a break, I want to eat, sleep, kiss my wife.”
The rematch between Fury and Usyk is scheduled for October 12th/13th, promising another exciting chapter in their rivalry.