Oleksandr Usyk pens four-word post posing with Tyson Fury's WBC belt for the first time on social media
Oleksandr Usyk etched his name in boxing history, defeating Tyson Fury by a split decision to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999.
The fight lived up to its billing, with momentum shifting dramatically throughout the twelve rounds. Fury appeared dominant early, utilizing his size and reach to control the fight with a long jab. However, Usyk never faltered, landing clean punches throughout.
The turning point came in a dramatic ninth round. Usyk landed a left hook that sent Fury reeling and nearly resulted in a stoppage. Despite being saved by the bell, Fury never fully recovered. Usyk pressed his advantage in the final rounds, ultimately securing a narrow victory on the judges' scorecards (115-112, 113-114, 114-113).
Following the win, Usyk celebrated on social media, posting a picture of himself holding Fury's WBC belt with the caption:
"Welcome to the family."
Check out Oleksandr Usyk's post below:
Oleksandr Usyk breaks down in emotional tribute to late father after historic win
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk's emotions ran high following his victory over Tyson Fury. In a tearful post-fight press conference, Usyk paid a heartfelt tribute to his late father.
During the interview, Usyk's voice cracked as he spoke of his father.
"I think my father is watching me now and is very happy," he said, looking towards the sky. "Daddy, I love you. I can do it, you told me."
Usyk had previously revealed that his late father visits him in dreams before important fights. However, the press conference took an emotional turn when he was asked if his father appeared before the Fury fight.
"I say to my father, 'Hey listen, you live in death, I live here, please don't come for me. I love you… For me, it hurts when my father comes for me because I remember all my life. I know he is here, maybe like out there," he added, pointing towards the media stands.
The 37-year-old Ukrainian boxer suffered the loss of his father just days after his gold medal win at the 2012 London Olympics. His victory over Fury extends his undefeated record to 22-0 while handing Fury his first career defeat.
Check out Oleksandr Usyk's post-fight conference below: