Tyson Fury Refuses to Accept Rematch Loss to Oleksandr Usyk

Tyson Fury refused to accept his defeat against Oleksandr Usyk in their rematch, claiming the judges gave him a “Christmas gift.” All three judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Usyk securing the Ukrainian’s second consecutive win over Fury. Fury alongside his promoter Frank Warren, was adamant that the Briton had done enough to win. Fury stated, “I feel like I won both fights. I know I had to knock him out, but it’s boxing, and this happens.”

He added that many people including Warren believed he was ahead by at least two rounds. After the fight, Tyson Fury declined to answer questions in the ring, instead opting to speak backstage. He expressed frustration, saying, “I’m not going to cry over spilt milk, but I’ll always feel a little bit hard done by.” Warren continuing his defense of Fury’s performance also criticized the judges, calling their decision baffling. He praised Fury’s jab, footwork and evasiveness throughout the bout.

Usyk remained unshaken by Fury’s claims, extending his unbeaten record to 23-0 and solidifying his status as one of the best of his generation. In response to Fury’s “Christmas gift” remark, Usyk joked, “Uncle Frank, I think he’s blind.” The judges for the bout were Patrick Morley (USA), Ignacio Robles (Panama) and Gerardo Martinez (Puerto Rico).

While all judges scored it 116-112 for Usyk, they did not agree on every round.  The judges unanimously scored rounds 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 11 in Usyk’s favor with each round scored 10-9 and no knockdowns were recorded. Despite the controversy, Usyk’s victory solidifies his place as the unified heavyweight champion.