Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk have signed to fight in Saudi Arabia, delivering on a promise made to fans one year ago.
The clash will see Fury put his WBC title on the line against Usyk’s IBF, WBA, and WBO belts to crown the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis.
Following initial reports that the fight was signed to take place in Saudi Arabia this December or next January, both sides confirmed it to be true.
As with Fury’s next fight against MMA fighter, Francis Ngannou, the even is under the Riyadh Season banner and is a co-promotion between Queensberry, Top Rank, K2 and Usyk17.
‘The Gypsy King’ took to social media to share the news. In an accompanying message he sent a message directly to Usyk: “You can’t run rabbit run anymore.”
— TYSON FURY (@Tyson_Fury) September 29, 2023
Fury’s UK promoter, Frank Warren, said that it was the biggest fight in the sport.
“Delighted to finally get this fight signed. This is the biggest fight that could possibly be made in our sport. The heavyweights always spark the imagination of the fans, and I have no doubt this will be the biggest boxing event of the century. I look forward to Tyson reclaiming the three belts that he never lost in the ring. Huge thanks to His Excellency and the GEA.”
The WBC champion’s promoter across the pond, veteran Bob Arum, believes the bout crowns the greatest of a generation.
“Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are the two greatest heavyweights of their generation, and I can’t wait to see what happens when they step into the ring in Riyadh. They are special talents worthy of competing for the greatest prize in sports. I would like to thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and everyone involved in helping make this legendary night a reality.”
And Alex Krassyuk, who promotes Usyk, branded it the biggest heavyweight fight of the century.
“I can’t believe that it’s happening but it is. Difficult to express my admiration for being part of the biggest heavyweight fight of the century. Gratitude to the KSA and his excellency Turki Al-Sheikh for making it happen, respect to Tyson for his courage and thank the Lord for all he gives us.”
Final details on the date, broadcast and undercard are to follow.