Oleksandr Usyk dominates heavyweight division ahead of Tyson Fury showdown

Oleksandr Usyk cemented his place among boxing’s all-time greats with a masterclass performance that set the stage for his trilogy showdown with Tyson Fury.

What happened?

On 18 October 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk outboxed a prime Fury over 12 grueling rounds to claim the lineal heavyweight title. The judges scored it 115-112, 114-113, and 116-111 in Usyk’s favor. The victory made him the first Ukrainian-and only the third man in history-to hold undisputed titles in two weight classes (cruiserweight and heavyweight). Fury, a three-division titlist himself, absorbed Usyk’s relentless pressure while landing fewer punches. The fight drew 1.2 million pay-per-view buys in the U.S. alone.

How did Usyk get here?

Born in Simferopol in 1987, Usyk turned pro in 2013 after a decorated amateur career that included Olympic gold in 2012. He captured the WBO cruiserweight belt in 2016, then stunned the world by dethroning Anthony Joshua in 2021 to become the first undisputed cruiserweight champion in a decade. A year later, he moved up to heavyweight and stopped Murat Gassiev in five rounds. His trilogy with Fury was announced in March 2025, with the Saudi capital chosen as the neutral venue.

Why this fight matters for Usyk

At 38, Usyk defied age and weight-class odds to become the oldest undisputed heavyweight champion since Evander Holyfield in 1994. His footwork and jab-hallmarks of his amateur days-outclassed Fury’s size and power, proving the Ukrainian’s mastery extends beyond speed. The victory also extended his pro record to 22-0, with 14 knockouts. Promoter Eddie Hearn called it “the greatest night in Ukrainian boxing history.” Usyk’s purse for the trilogy fight topped $15 million, a career high.

What comes next?

Usyk and Fury will meet for a third time on 14 February 2026 in London, live on Sky Sports Box Office. A draw would leave Usyk’s legacy intact but open the door for a potential fourth clash with unified champion Oleksandr Gassiev. Fury hinted at retirement if he loses again. Usyk, meanwhile, has his sights set on breaking Rocky Marciano’s 49-0 record-though he insists he’s not chasing perfection. “I fight to test myself,” he said. “The numbers don’t matter.”