Eddie Hearn reveals Tyson Fury's final fight is imminent
- Oleksandr Usyk defended his heavyweight titles against Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Usyk won the fight by a unanimous decision, with scores from all three judges reflecting a decisive victory.
- Both fighters must now consider their future in boxing, as the sport can be unforgiving to aging fighters.
In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 23, 2024, the heavyweight boxing rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury concluded with Usyk winning by unanimous decision. All three judges scored the bout 116-112 in favor of Usyk, solidifying his position as the WBA, WBC, and WBO champion. This fight not only showcased the mastery of Usyk as a tactician in the ring but also highlighted some declining elements in both fighters' performances. Throughout the 12 rounds, Usyk utilized his superior footwork and timing to repeatedly outmaneuver Fury, outpacing him with punches that led to a decisive victory. Tyson Fury, known for his size and skill, struggled to adapt to Usyk's rhythm and found himself unable to capitalize on his usual strategies. Although Fury's output decreased in the latter part of the bout, he maintained a steady pace and fought with resilience, believing he had won. Prominent figures in boxing, including Fury's promoter Frank Warren, expressed disbelief at the scoring, arguing it was a tighter contest than suggested by the judges. Despite the loss, Eddie Hearn, the promoter for Anthony Joshua, indicated that a fight between Fury and Joshua could still be a significant event in British boxing, even with both fighters recently suffering defeats. The aftermath of the fight left both Usyk and Fury contemplating their futures, as they navigated a sport known for its disregard toward the legacies of fighters. Both men displayed visible signs that their careers could be nearing a turning point, requiring each to consider their potential exit strategies. With the possibility of future bouts still on the table, the boxing world remains keen on the decisions these heavyweights will make next.