A highly anticipated rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk has been officially scheduled for December 21, 2024. This follows Fury’s shocking first professional loss to Usyk on May 18, which crowned the Ukrainian as the new undisputed heavyweight champion. The split decision in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, saw scores of 115-112 for Usyk, 114-113 for Fury, and 114-113 for Usyk. Despite nearly being defeated in the ninth round, Fury fought back in what was described as a bloody spectacle.
Fury, determined to reclaim his WBC heavyweight world title, activated his rematch clause against Usyk. The second bout will also take place in Riyadh as part of a significant financial deal. Saudi Arabian boxing chief Turki Alalshikh announced the rematch, expressing commitment to boxing fans and promising another historical fight. Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, anticipates the rematch to be even better than the original fight, as both fighters will use their previous encounter to strategize for victory.
The upcoming fight is not without complications. Usyk, currently holding the WBC, WBO, WBA, and IBF titles, may be stripped of his IBF belt due to a medical suspension until June 2, following injuries from the first fight. Meanwhile, Fury faced controversy post-fight by attributing Usyk’s win to sympathy for Ukraine amid its war. During an interview with DAZN, Fury stated, “I believe we both put on a good fight – best we could do. And, you know, his country is at war. People are siding with the country at war. Make no mistake, I won that fight in my opinion.”
Despite these issues, the rematch is set to be a major event, with both fighters eager to prove themselves once more in the ring. Fans are excited about the rematch, believing it could surpass the intensity and drama of the first fight. As anticipation builds, the boxing community is buzzing with speculation on how each fighter will approach the bout given their newfound insights and strategies.
The event’s location in Riyadh during the Riyadh Season underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in hosting major sporting events. The rematch not only promises a thrilling spectacle for boxing enthusiasts but also highlights the global nature of the sport and its ability to draw attention and viewership from around the world. As December approaches, all eyes will be on Fury and Usyk as they prepare for what could be one of the most significant boxing matches in recent history.
