What surprising request did Fury make to Usyk immediately after the fight?

Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury went into the Riyadh ring knowing two things for sure. One, that the winner of the fight would become the first undisputed champion of the four-belt era, and two, that both their bank balances were going to be getting an extremely huge boost. As it turned out, in what was a tremendous battle right to the end, a split decision gave the win to the Ukrainian with scores of 115-112, 113-114, and 114-113.

Ukraine holiday for Fury-Usyk families?

But before the decision was announced and Usyk’s hand raised, the two fighters embraced at the final bell and some words were exchanged, of a very friendly nature.

‘I’d like to come to Ukraine with my family and have a holiday with your family,” Fury said to the soon-to-be champion, according to reports from sharp-eared reporters with top audio equipment. “And you can come to my house and have a holiday with me,” he added.

“No problem, my friend,” Usyk replied.

Friendly fighters looking for rematch

As well as this potential meeting up in a war torn country – Russia continues on its illegal invasion to overthrow the Ukrainian government – other kind words had been exchanged between the two.

“Good work Oleksandr. You’re a strong man and a very good boxer. Very good, my brother. In Christ,” Fury said holding Usyk’s head in his hands.

“Listen, I started preparing for you when you were boxing in 2008, European champion,” replied Usyk.

“Thank you my brother, you’re a very good boxer. I love it, I love it, good moves,” Tyson continued to which his opponent said, “I’m very proud. We’re a friendly... family.”

All eyes are now on an expected rematch, likely again in Saudi Arabia, and possibly before the end of 2024. Indeed Fury has already demanded a chance to get back the belts. “Yeah, we’ll have it again. Show me the money baby! Show Oleksandr the money!” were his enthusiastic words towards the organisers.