Oleksandr Usyk’s victory over Tyson Fury in Riyadh goes unnoticed globally despite its importance

In an era where heavyweight title fights used to captivate the world, Oleksandr Usyk’s unanimous decision win over Tyson Fury in Riyadh on Saturday seemed to barely register. Aside from pockets of enthusiasm in Ukraine and Britain, the bout passed with little fanfare, particularly in the United States, where the fight was scheduled to air against the first round of the College Football Playoff tournament. This unfortunate timing reduced the media spotlight and decreased pay-per-view sales, making Usyk’s significant victory almost a whisper in the sports world.

This lack of attention is puzzling given the importance of the fight. For many, the Usyk-Fury rematch was more than just another heavyweight contest—it was a defining moment for the sport. Usyk’s triumph over Fury—arguably the most dominant heavyweight of his era—was not just a sporting achievement but a statement of his remarkable journey from cruiserweight champion to heavyweight king.

The fight itself was compelling, with Usyk continuing to defy expectations. Known for his technical skill rather than brute strength, Usyk had already achieved the near-impossible by defeating Anthony Joshua twice and Daniel Dubois. In this latest clash, his victory over Fury reinforced his status as one of boxing’s finest tacticians, outboxing a man whose size and strength have often intimidated opponents. Yet despite the drama and significance of the contest, it failed to capture the kind of widespread interest expected from a marquee fight.

Much of the attention that Tyson Fury has garnered over the years is tied to his larger-than-life persona. Standing at 6ft 9in and weighing 280lb, Fury commands attention—not only for his physical presence but also for his boisterous, mercurial character. Known for his unpredictability and profane outbursts, Fury has cultivated a persona as a chaotic force in boxing. In contrast, Usyk, the quieter, more humble figure, carries none of that same media magnetism. Outside of his native Ukraine, Usyk remains relatively unknown.

His unassuming nature contrasts sharply with his prowess in the ring. Usyk has long been known for his ability to overcome obstacles. He has defeated much larger opponents, including the formidable Fury, through sheer skill and determination. His victories over Joshua and Dubois were also marked by tactical brilliance rather than brute force. But unlike Fury, Usyk has yet to generate the same level of public intrigue beyond his homeland.

This fight, however, was about more than just the two boxers. The implications for both men were significant. For Usyk, it was a chance to cement his legacy as one of the sport’s greats, to stand as the best in an era often dominated by larger, more aggressive fighters. For Fury, the defeat casts doubt on his continued reign at the top of the heavyweight division, a defeat that will likely force him to reassess his future in the sport.

Despite the muted reaction, those who followed the fight understand its importance. It’s a stark reminder that sometimes the greatest achievements occur without the global recognition they deserve. As the dust settles on Usyk’s victory, the real question may not be whether his career will continue to shine, but whether the sport will give him the recognition he so clearly merits.