The highly anticipated rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury has reignited debates in the boxing community, as fans and analysts dissect every moment of the intense bout. In a post-fight statement by Turki Alalshikh, the noted figure remarked, “In the fight between Usyk and Tyson, I counted that Usyk has 4 rounds more.” This bold claim has sparked discussions about the scoring, strategies, and overall dynamics of the fight.

The Fight Breakdown

From the opening bell, the clash of styles between the two heavyweights was evident. Usyk, known for his exceptional footwork, precision, and ring IQ, maintained a high level of activity. His punches landed cleanly, and his ability to avoid Fury’s heavier shots was a testament to his technical prowess. Fury, on the other hand, relied on his size advantage and physicality, often using his clinching tactics to wear down the Ukrainian champion.

Despite Fury’s dominance in the clinches and his occasional bursts of power punches, many observers, including Alalshikh, believed that Usyk’s consistency and ring control earned him the majority of the rounds. The remark about Usyk being ahead by “four rounds” reflects a broader sentiment that the Ukrainian’s performance was undervalued by the official judges.

Controversial Scoring

Boxing, as always, remains subjective when it comes to scoring. While the official judges scored the bout narrowly in favor of Fury, Turki Alalshikh’s observation raises questions about potential biases or differing interpretations of effective aggression versus technical skill. Fans who sided with Usyk argue that his clean punching and defensive mastery outweighed Fury’s physical dominance.

The scoring controversy has become a focal point for post-fight discussions, with many calling for greater transparency in judging criteria. Was Usyk’s strategy of outpointing Fury overshadowed by Fury’s imposing presence? Or did the judges overlook key moments where Usyk demonstrated superior boxing?

Usyk’s Strategy: Outclass, Not Outmuscle

Oleksandr Usyk entered the fight with a clear game plan: to use his agility and technique to outmaneuver the larger Fury. At times, it seemed as though Usyk was playing a game of chess, carefully picking his moments to strike and avoiding unnecessary risks. This approach, while not as flashy as Fury’s power-driven style, highlighted the Ukrainian’s deep understanding of the sport.

However, Fury’s ability to lean on Usyk—both literally and figuratively—took a toll. The British heavyweight’s sheer size advantage became a factor as the rounds progressed, limiting Usyk’s mobility and wearing him down in the clinches. While some may argue this was a sign of Fury’s dominance, others view it as a less honorable tactic that detracted from the purity of the competition.

What’s Next for Both Fighters?

The rematch has undoubtedly left a bitter taste for many in the boxing world, with debates about who truly won likely to persist for months. For Usyk, the fight demonstrated his resilience and skill, solidifying his place as one of the greatest technical boxers of this generation. A third fight could be on the horizon, especially given the controversy surrounding this bout.

For Tyson Fury, the victory—though disputed—adds another chapter to his legacy. However, questions about his ability to decisively outbox Usyk remain, as many feel the fight highlighted weaknesses in Fury’s approach against smaller, more technical opponents.

Conclusion

The Usyk vs. Fury II rematch was a clash of titans, each bringing their unique strengths to the ring. While Tyson Fury may have emerged victorious on the scorecards, the controversy surrounding the decision ensures that this fight will be remembered as much for its drama outside the ring as its action within. As Turki Alalshikh’s comments continue to resonate, the boxing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in this heavyweight saga.