Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are set for a rematch on December 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as announced by Turki Alalshikh on social media. Earlier this month, Usyk defeated Fury in Saudi Arabia, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years and the first in the four-belt era.
The rematch will occur on Saturday, December 21, in Riyadh, confirmed by Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority chairman, Turki Alalshikh.
Usyk secured a split decision victory over Fury in their previous encounter, marking the first time since Lennox Lewis in 1999 that an undisputed heavyweight champion was crowned and the first of the four-belt era.
The contract for the initial bout included a rematch clause, widely discussed before the fight.
Alalshikh wrote on social media: “The rematch is now scheduled for December 21, 2024, during Riyadh Season. The world will witness another historic fight. Our commitment to boxing fans remains strong. Enjoy the event.”
Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, told Sky Sports this week: “I spoke to Tyson after the fight and upon his return to ensure he was okay. He was very disappointed but philosophical.
“The rematch was signed before the first fight, and both fighters expressed their desire for it. We will proceed accordingly. It was an incredible fight, with two gladiators giving their all in what could be considered the most important fight of the 21st century. It was a very close match, and the rematch will be even bigger.”
Fury appeared to control the fight until Usyk’s breakthrough in the thrilling ninth round, which saw Fury receive a standing count.
Warren believes Fury can make the necessary adjustments to avenge his first career defeat. “I think he can, and he believes he can,” Warren said. “In the seventh round, Tyson landed some good uppercuts on Usyk, who was struggling. But Usyk found a second wind, caught Tyson with a solid shot on the nose, which shifted the fight’s momentum, leading to the pivotal ninth round.
“It was a fight of two halves, and both fighters know what they need to do. It will be fascinating to see who is more impacted when the rematch occurs.”