In an announcement on Thursday, organisers confirmed the highly anticipated clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world, scheduled to take place in Riyadh on February 17.
The bout sees Britain’s Fury, the WBC world champion, facing off against Ukrainian Usyk, who currently holds the WBA, WBO, IBF, and IBO belts, both boasting undefeated records.
While initial contracts were signed in September for a proposed December 23 showdown, the date remained unconfirmed, especially after Fury’s close call in a non-title bout against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia on October 28.
Notably, the last undisputed world champion in the heavyweight division was Britain’s Lennox Lewis in 1999. However, this time, the contest puts up for grabs four belts in a heavyweight bout for the first time in a while.
Following the announcement, tensions escalated during a press conference, leading to a heated confrontation between the two boxers, necessitating their separation.
“You’re welcome to be sharing a ring with the future undisputed heavyweight champion—me,” remarked the 35-year-old Fury. “You know what’s coming; you’re getting smashed to pieces. You’re fighting the best British heavyweight there’s ever been.”
In response, 36-year-old Usyk calmly stated that he pays no heed to Fury’s words, concentrating solely on the upcoming match. “When the Lord gives me Tyson in my hands, I will do my job,” he affirmed.
Reflecting further, Usyk saw the upcoming fight as an opportunity to give back to those who supported him. “It’s a big opportunity, being undisputed, for my family, country, and people who now defend my country,” he expressed.
