Oleksandr Usyk has firmly established himself among boxing’s elite. The Ukrainian fighter’s recent victories over Tyson Fury have drawn the attention of legendary trainer and commentator Teddy Atlas, who now heralds Usyk as one of the greatest heavyweights in history.
Usyk’s journey to the summit has been nothing short of extraordinary. He claimed Olympic gold in London in 2012, setting the foundation for a professional career that saw him dominate two weight divisions. In 2018, he became the undisputed cruiserweight champion. Fast forward to 2024, and he has achieved the same status in the heavyweight division—all in just 23 professional fights.
The boxer’s recent victories over Tyson Fury have solidified his status. In May 2024, Usyk secured a split decision win against Fury, claiming all four heavyweight belts. He followed that triumph with an even more decisive performance in their December rematch, earning a unanimous decision victory with scores of 116-112 on all cards.
Teddy Atlas shared his insights on Usyk’s accomplishments on his podcast. The esteemed trainer didn’t hold back in his admiration:
"Every challenge along the way he has done it with class and dignity. Anyone who does not agree with this, that he has put himself in the pantheon of great fighters in the sport of boxing as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time."
Atlas went on to compare Usyk to some of boxing’s all-time legends:
"You got a lot of greats, Jack Johnson, Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano, Jack Dempsey, you can go on and on. Usyk has joined that crowd."
With his place in history secured, Usyk now has several options for his next move. He could return to cruiserweight, or he might face Daniel Dubois in a rematch. That fight could happen if Dubois beats Joseph Parker in his IBF world title defense on February 22nd.
Whatever path Usyk chooses, his legacy as one of boxing’s greatest is already assured. His journey from Olympic champion to undisputed champion in two weight classes has been characterized by skill, determination, and class—qualities that have rightfully earned him a place among the sport’s legends.
