On Saturday, December 21 – at approximately 11 p.m. our local time, the excitement will hit a peak.

As the gong sounds and the cheers of 27,000 boxing fans resonate through the Royal Arena in Riyadh, the second clash is set to commence – marking one of the most significant bouts in boxing history, featuring the legendary champions Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury.

Six months prior, these two titans faced off for the title of the undisputed heavyweight champion, and the world held its breath for the outcome. Usyk emerged victorious, earning his place atop the throne via the judges’ decision after an exhilarating 12 rounds.

It was evident then that a rematch was on the horizon, and the agreement was reached surprisingly swiftly, underscoring how thrilling the contest was for both fighters as they etched their name in history.

– There was a major clash in May, widely discussed for weeks, but that’s in the past now. This is a new narrative, and I need to approach it with increased focus and intelligence. Every previous encounter with the same opponent concluded in one way – with me knocking them out. I aim for that outcome again. I have trained rigorously, maintained a healthy diet, prioritized rest, followed established routines – now, I leave the rest to divine intervention – stated Tyson Fury.

While Fury has clear motivations for the rematch, Oleksandr Usyk, having transitioned from cruiserweight to heavyweight with undeniable prowess, is focused on defending his belts. Unlike Fury, the Ukrainian has kept a low profile leading up to the rematch.

– What motivates me? I have no specific motive. I adhere to my regimen, engage meticulously in my preparation, and I simply love to fight. Those are my motivations. That’s all – responded Usyk.

In hosting this epic showdown, Saudi Arabia is solidifying its status as the premier locale for extravagant sports spectacles during the ongoing Riyadh Season.

There’s substantial financial incentive involved as reports indicate that the boxers will split a total purse of $190 million. Usyk, having triumphed in the first encounter, will receive 60 percent of that amount – roughly $114 million – while Fury’s earnings will total around $76 million.

The promoters anticipate success in orchestrating this grand event…

– We have two exceptional fighters in the ring, and it doesn’t get better than this. The first match was spectacular, showcasing a level of boxing that only the greatest can deliver. They now possess a deeper understanding of each other, mutual respect, and an intense desire to triumph. This is an extraordinary matchup that will undoubtedly be discussed for years and years to come. I have unwavering faith in Tyson and recognize his capabilities; I’ve known this since the very first time our paths crossed. I’m confident this fight can be his – remarked Frank Warren, Tyson Fury’s promoter.

– Everything that occurred in May holds no relevance now. We are in the present, shaping the future right here, right now. We are privileged to witness the two greatest champions, the top athletes in the world, not just once but twice in the ring. It’s a unique occurrence, a phenomenon; experiencing Usyk vs. Fury twice is a sporting marvel – added Alex Krasyuk, Oleksandr Usyk’s promoter.

Unlike their first bout, the rematch will not determine the undisputed heavyweight champion; instead, it will be for the WBC, WBA, and WBO titles. The IBF title was stripped from Usyk for not defending within the required timeframe, allowing Daniel Dubois to claim the championship.

If Usyk bests Fury again, it’s likely Dubois will be next in line, although it’s uncertain if the Ukrainian will remain motivated to face someone he has previously defeated with ease in the cruiserweight division.

However, should Fury emerge victorious, 2025 could witness a trilogy – a third match to truly establish who reigns supreme.

Revolution – the match to be scored by artificial intelligence

The upcoming bout between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk is set to introduce a groundbreaking change in Saudi Arabia – the event will feature artificial intelligence scoring for the very first time in boxing history.

This was disclosed by Saudi promoter Turki Alalshik, a highly regarded associate of Prince Mohammed bin Salman and a prominent figure in Saudi sports.

The implementation of artificial intelligence is designed to mitigate human error.

However, despite the technological advancements aiding the judges, the official fight decisions will still be determined by three judges who will announce their verdict after 12 rounds, barring any interruptions.

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