Oleksandr Usyk is the undisputed heavyweight champion after just six fights in the division, a journey marked by taking some of the hardest punches in boxing. Formerly a four-belt ruler at cruiserweight, the Ukrainian champion moved up and made an impressive entrance with a stoppage win over Chazz Witherspoon. He followed this with a hard-fought points victory over Derek Chisora, who pushed him to his limits over twelve rounds.
Usyk then faced Anthony Joshua, defeating him by unanimous decision to become the unified champion. Their rematch ended in a closer split decision, but Usyk retained his titles. He made his second title defense against 26-year-old Daniel Dubois, whom he stopped in the ninth round following a controversial low-blow incident that many felt should have awarded Dubois the win.
The pinnacle of Usyk’s heavyweight career came with his bout against Tyson Fury. Fury found success with uppercuts in the middle rounds, but Usyk’s resilience and skill led to a knockdown in the ninth round. Usyk ultimately won by split decision, securing the fourth and final belt and solidifying his legacy in heavyweight boxing.
In an appearance on the 3 Knockdown Rule podcast, Usyk acknowledged that Fury gave him his toughest test yet but named Derek Chisora as the hardest puncher he has faced. “Listen, I have respect for Tyson Fury. A fighter, a great man, but my opponent. Very hard man. Very smart … [Hardest fight] I think yes. Punch? I think no. Derek Chisora. Very tough guy. Derek – right hand, left hand, I’d like block… ‘Oh my God! Oh move Alex, this is dangerous,’” said Usyk.
Chisora’s relentless aggression and powerful punches left a lasting impression on Usyk. Despite tiring Chisora out with his movement, Usyk was well aware of the danger posed by his opponent’s punches. Chisora, known for his criticism of other fighters like Joshua, Dubois, and Fury for their lack of aggression, seemed to have a point, given Usyk’s assessment.
Looking ahead, Usyk is set for a rematch with Fury on December 21, promising another thrilling chapter in his illustrious career.
