Tyson Fury has refused to accept his unanimous decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in their high-stakes heavyweight rematch, insisting the judges handed the Ukrainian champion a “Christmas gift.” The fight, held at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw all three judges score it 116-112 in favor of Usyk, who defended his unified heavyweight titles for the second time against the British boxer.
Speaking to the media after the bout, Fury expressed disbelief over the decision and insisted he had done enough to win.
“The judges gave him a Christmas gift,” Fury stated. “I feel like I won both fights. I know I had to knock him out, but it’s boxing, and this happens. There is no doubt in my mind I won this fight.”
Fury, 36, skipped the customary post-fight interview in the ring, heading backstage before addressing reporters. Despite his disappointment, he maintained that he wouldn’t dwell on the outcome.
“I’m not going to cry over spilled milk, it’s over now,” Fury said. “I’ve been boxing my whole life, but I’ll always feel a little bit hard done by – not a little bit, a lot.”
Frank Warren, Fury’s promoter, echoed the boxer’s sentiments, criticizing the judges’ decision and praising Fury’s performance in the ring.
“I’m dumbfounded at how they [judges] scored it,” Warren said. “His jabbing was superb, his footwork was superb, he wasn’t slow. He was very evasive.”
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Warren also claimed Fury was ahead in the fight, stating, “I had him three or four rounds up, and a lot of people had him up by at least two.”
Oleksandr Usyk, who extended his undefeated record to 23-0 with this victory, shrugged off Fury’s claims. When asked about Fury’s remarks, Usyk humorously referred to Warren’s comments.
“Uncle Frank, I think he is blind,” Usyk said with a grin. “If Tyson says it is a Christmas gift then OK, thank you God, not Tyson. Thank you to my team.”
The Ukrainian champion remains focused on his achievements, with many now regarding him as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. Usyk has successfully defended his unified heavyweight titles twice this year against Fury, further cementing his place in boxing history.
Fury, whose record now stands at 33 wins, one loss, and one draw, faces uncertainty about his future in boxing. While he has expressed frustration with the outcome of the rematch, he stopped short of announcing any immediate plans.
Fans and analysts alike are now speculating about what lies ahead for both fighters. Usyk’s dominance in the division has made him a formidable champion, while Fury’s determination suggests he may not step away from the sport just yet.
For now, the controversy surrounding the decision ensures the rematch will remain a talking point in the boxing world for weeks to come.