On Saturday night, August 20, Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk confirmed his place at the top of the heavyweight division with a rematch victory over British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua at the King Abdullah Sports City Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, glamsquad reports.
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Usyk outpointed Joshua over the course of 12 rounds, winning on a split decision, 116-112 and 115-113 on two cards. The third judge scored Joshua 115-113.
During the fight, Joshua displayed a different side of himself, applying plenty of pressure and landing body shots on Usyk, a significant improvement over their first meeting in September.
In the ninth round, Usyk (who helped defend Ukraine during Russia’s invasion) was nearly broken by body punches.
Usyk then displayed outstanding character in the tenth round, clipping Joshua with heavy counterpunches to end the fight.
Usyk deservedly won and could face WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in December for the title of undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
Usyk said after the fight, through a translator:
“This is already history,” he says. “Many generations will watch this fight, especially the [10th] round, when someone tried to beat me hard, but I stood up to it and turned it around.” Thank you, God.”
Usyk was asked if he thought he won the fight despite the protests from Joshua’s corner. “Of course,” he replied.
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When asked about the one major heavyweight title he doesn’t have: Tyson Fury’s WBC belt, Usyk responds:
“I’m sure Tyson Fury isn’t done fighting,” Usyk says. “I’m certain. I’m sure he wants to fight me. I want to go up against him. And I’m not fighting unless I’m fighting Tyson Fury.”
“Only God knows whether or not I will.” But all of these gentlemen here, my team, are going to help me.”
