Rematch Scheduled for December
Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will face off in a highly anticipated rematch on 21 December, confirmed Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s general entertainment authority. Usyk, who previously defeated Fury by split decision on 18 May, became the first undisputed champion of the four-belt era.
Date Change and Public Reaction
Initially planned for October, the rematch has been rescheduled to December. Alalshikh expressed excitement, stating, “The world will watch another historical fight again.” This rematch continues Saudi Arabia’s commitment to hosting high-profile boxing events during Riyadh Season, an entertainment festival held every winter since 2019.
Usyk’s Dominance and Unbeaten Record
Usyk, the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999, added Fury’s WBC belt to his collection of WBA, WBO, and IBF titles. The 37-year-old Ukrainian has an unblemished professional record with 22 wins. Although the venue for the rematch has not been disclosed, it will take place during Riyadh Season.
Fury’s Opportunity for Redemption
This rematch offers Briton Tyson Fury, 35, a chance to reclaim his title after his first professional defeat in a 16-year career. However, it is unlikely that all four belts will be on the line, as the IBF plans to strip Usyk of his title for not facing its mandatory challenger. Usyk has requested an exception to retain the belt for the rematch.
Expanding Riyadh Season’s Boxing Portfolio
Riyadh Season has previously hosted several high-profile boxing events, and this rematch between Usyk and Fury further enhances its reputation. The event not only highlights the growing popularity of boxing in Saudi Arabia but also underscores the nation’s commitment to bringing world-class sporting events to its shores.
Potential Future Matchups
If Usyk vacates the IBF title, the winner of the upcoming Filip Hrgovic and Daniel Dubois fight could face Anthony Joshua for the vacant belt. Additionally, if Fury triumphs over Usyk and Joshua secures the IBF title, a future showdown between Fury and Joshua for all titles could be on the horizon, promising more excitement for boxing fans.
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