Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk tearfully recalled his late father following his historic victory over Tyson Fury. Usyk discussed his sacrifices during training and hinted at a break before a rematch. This marks Fury’s first defeat in his 36-fight career.
Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk broke down in tears during a post-fight news conference when asked about his late father. Usyk, 37, claimed a split decision victory against Tyson Fury to become the first four-belt era undisputed heavyweight champion. The Ukrainian boxer lost his father shortly after winning gold at the 2012 Olympics, and he emotionally recounted that his father last visited him in his dreams.
“I miss my father and I said to him, ‘You live there and I live here, please don’t come for me, I love you’,” an emotional Usyk shared. He explained that it's hard for him when his father appears in his dreams, as it brings back memories of their life together. “I know he is here, maybe sitting out there [in the press room].”
The fight, initially scheduled for February 17, was postponed due to a “freak” cut Fury suffered earlier that month, leading Usyk to extend his training camp for nine months. “I don’t think about boxing now, please,” Usyk said when asked about a rematch. He highlighted the sacrifices he made, including missing family events and holidays to focus on the fight.
This defeat marks the first of Fury’s 36-fight career, a setback that will require time to process. BBC Sports reports that both fighters had agreed to an immediate rematch clause, but there is a reluctance to commit to a rematch immediately. Usyk and Fury hinted at needing time to recuperate before deciding on future bouts.
Fury, at his post-fight news conference, stated, “I’m going home to eat some food, have some drinks, have some family time, walk the dog, go to the tip and then me and Frank [Warren] will talk about what is going to happen in the future.”
