Tyson Fury Claims Sympathy for Ukraine Influenced Oleksandr Usyk’s Heavyweight Win

Heavyweight Tyson Fury (35) suggested that sympathy for Ukraine influenced the judges’ decision to award a split-decision victory to Oleksandr Usyk (37) in their heavyweight title fight on Sunday. The Briton immediately called for a rematch.

After dominating the middle rounds, Fury struggled to recover from a standing eight count in the ninth round, resulting in the judges’ decision in favor of Usyk, making him the first undisputed heavyweight champion in nearly 25 years.

“I believe I won that fight. He won a few rounds, but I won the majority. His country’s at war, and people are siding with the country at war, but make no mistake, I won that fight,” Fury said in a post-fight interview in the ring.

Ukraine has been embroiled in conflict following a Russian invasion that began more than two years ago.

“I’ll be back. I’ve got a rematch clause,” the previously undefeated Fury added, with promoter Frank Warren affirming in the ring that another fight between the two was inevitable.

“That’s what the contract says. It’s what he wants. It’s his call, it’s Tyson’s call. So whatever he wants to do, it’s up to him,” Warren said.

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After an engaging 12-round contest where both fighters had their moments, many boxing fans are eager for a rematch, especially after Usyk’s comeback.

“We’ll go back to our families and I’ll see him again in October. We’ll go back, rest up. I believe I won the fight but I’m not going to sit and cry and make excuses. We’ll run it again in October,” Fury said.

When asked if he was willing to face Fury again, Usyk, who did not directly address Fury’s claim, was unequivocal.

“Yes, of course,” the Ukrainian said.