The tension is palpable as boxing fans turn their eyes to the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, where Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will go head-to-head for the second time on December 21. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, places his WBC, WBO, and WBA belts on the line against Fury, determined to redeem himself after their previous clash ended with Usyk's victory by split decision.
Fury’s quest for revenge is no undercurrent of this event, which many are calling one of the most significant rematches in heavyweight history. Following their first bout, where Usyk shockingly knocked down Fury en route to his split-decision win, Fury has been on the hunt for redemption.
Recent weigh-ins have added another layer to this high-stakes match. Usyk weighed in at 226 lbs, slightly heavier than when he initially defeated Fury, who came in at 281 lbs, increasing his weight significantly by 19 lbs since their last encounter. The extra mass may prove beneficial for Fury, as he needs every advantage when stepping back onto the canvas with the man who previously dethroned him.
While the world focuses on the heavyweight battle of the titans, the event's undercard has drawn interest of its own, featuring several matchups with compelling narratives.
Leading the charge is the super-welterweight match between Serhii Bohachuk and Ishmael Davis. Bohachuk, boasting 24 wins, 23 of which came by knockout, is determined to respond after his recent loss and aims to make his mark with this high-profile opportunity. Meanwhile, Davis swiftly stepped up to replace Israil Madrimov, who withdrew due to bronchitis, demonstrating the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of the sport.
Expectations for the heavyweight bout between Moses Itauma and Demsey McKean run high. Itauma, undefeated and already rumored to be the next big star of heavyweight boxing, will square off against Australia’s McKean, whose only loss brings significant pressure to perform. Both fighters are vying for recognition on such a massive stage, promising fans at least one explosive heavyweight showdown.
Then there’s Johnny Fisher taking on David Allen, another notable matchup. Both fighters hail from the UK, and with Fisher being the rising star on the scene, this contest has caught the attention of boxing enthusiasts. Fisher, heavily favored following his rapid ascent through the ranks, looks to establish himself as more than just hype.
Aside from the established fighters, the undercard features lighter matchups as well, including Rhys Edwards battling Peter McGrail at super-bantamweight and Isaac Lowe clashing with Lee McGregor. The lower weight classes consistently produce some of the most thrilling action, and this card is no exception.
Local hopes will be on Mohammed Alakel, who opens the card, marking only his second professional fight against journeyman Joshua Ocampo. This bout could set the tone for the entire evening, as fans explore the narratives of each fighter on the undercard.
Despite being heavily overshadowed by the Usyk-Fury rematch, the AI judge present for the fights will add a modern twist to the event, which may intrigue or deter traditionalists. While the AI's roles will not influence the outcomes directly, the presence of technology aims to captivate audiences fascinated by the evolution of boxing.
The Usyk-Fury rematch and accompanying undercard are powered by their respective legacies and the significant narrative arcs of the fighters involved. With tensions high and anticipation running rampant, boxing fans worldwide prepare for what promises to be yet another historic chapter inscribed within the sport.
Watch the entire event live on DAZN Pay-Per-View, set at £24.99 for UK viewers and $39.95 for US audiences. The broadcasting platform ensures easy access for spectators eager to witness the historic clashes, alongside the myriad of unique viewing experiences offered.
Come December 21, boxing will be about more than just titans colliding; it will encompass aspirations, legacies, and history— MMA has gone from strength to strength, and this fight night aims to continue its trend as the sport showcases elite talent.
