On a historic night in Saudi Arabia, Oleksandr Usyk emerged as the first-ever four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion in boxing history, defeating Tyson Fury via split decision.
Briton Fury had a strong start on a monumental stage on a night that would define his legacy, but after a Usyk onslaught in round nine, he was given a standing 10 count and saved by the bell.
The scorecards gave 115-112 and 114-113 decisions in favour of the Ukrainian, with a third judge scoring it 114-113 to Fury.
As a result, Fury, 35, suffered his first defeat in his 16-year professional career. With a rematch scheduled for later this year, he will have an instant chance to exact revenge.
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“I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority,” a defiant Fury said in the ring.
“It was one of the daftest decisions in boxing. I’ll be back.”
Usyk takes the WBC belt from Fury, to add to his WBA, WBO and IBF collection.
The 37-year-old is still undefeated and the first boxer to hold the title of only heavyweight world champion in the sport for nearly 25 years.
“Thank you so much to my team. It’s a big opportunity for my family, for me, for my country. It’s a great time, it’s a great day,” Usyk said.
“Yes, of course. I am ready for a rematch.”
