Usyk dethrones Joshua in London
September 26, 2021
Oleksander Usyk has outclassed Anthony Joshua to become the new unified heavyweight world champion. He picked up the WBO, IBO, IBF and WBA titles.
The former unified cruiserweight champion went the distance with Joshua who was the favourite heading into the blockbuster match-up. Although the Ukrainian won on each of the judges’ scorecards (117-112, 116-112, 115-113).
What a moment for Oleksandr Usyk 👏#JoshuaUsyk pic.twitter.com/ySQhkrQloA
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) September 25, 2021
It was a disappointing performance for Joshua.
He started the fight slowly, trying to figure out his opponent’s southpaw style. It was obvious the boxing IQ at Usyk’s disposal was too much for the Brit.
Joshua did find some success in the middle rounds and looked to have the Ukrainian on the back foot, finding his punches and pushing Usyk onto the ropes.
Unfortunately for Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn, it was too little too late as Usyk found a second wind and cruised to victory – even catching Joshua in the final stages of the 12th round.
Joshua signed a career-long deal with Hearn’s Matchroom Sport in the week leading up to the fight but he now moves to 24-2 following the decision loss.
In a post-fight interview, the Ukrainian admitted he wasn’t at his best as he became the third heavyweight champion from the country – after the Klitschko brothers.
“You didn’t see the best Usyk, I can be much better,” Usyk said.
Oleksandr Usyk becomes the third Ukrainian heavyweight champion in history 🇺🇦
The Klitschko brothers were the first two. pic.twitter.com/kBapIcqBu7
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) September 25, 2021
Joshua can activate an immediate rematch clause with Usyk but it now means the mega battle with fellow countrymen Tyson Fury is off the cards.
Fill In The Form Below To Receive Our UFC Previews, Tips & News Straight To Your Email!
November 29, 2021
Kambosos Jr: Australia's best ever boxer?
Sydney\'s George Kambosos Jr stunned the boxing world on Sunday afternoon (AEDT) when he outpointed then-undefeated Teofimo Lopez to win the WBA, IBF, WBO, WBC franchise and ring lightweight titles Read MoreNovember 22, 2021
Where is Terrence Crawford on the P4P list?
Sunday’s match-up with Shawn Porter has seen many questions raised over Terrence Crawford’s position in boxing’s pound for pound list The 10th round knockout saw Crawford move to 38-0 and a Read MoreNovember 18, 2021
Tszyu outclasses Inoue in 12 round battle
Tim Tszyu returned to Sydney with one of the best performances of his career While taking Japan\'s Takeshi Inoue the full 12 rounds, the Australian showcased his constant pressure which suffocated Read More