Oleksandr Usyk‘s second victory over Tyson Fury has solidified his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats. While debates about his place among the heavyweight legends persist, his achievements and skill make a strong case for a top-ten spot since the 1950s. This article explores his journey and why he belongs alongside icons like Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, and George Foreman.
Usyk’s Career Highlights Oleksandr Usyk began his career in the cruiserweight division, making history as the first to hold all four major cruiserweight titles. A 2012 Olympic gold medalist, his professional transition was swift and dominant, with undefeated records and wins over Mairis Briedis, Tony Bellew, and Murat Gassiev solidifying his legacy in a competitive division.
Heavyweight Success Usyk faced skepticism moving to heavyweight due to his smaller 6’3″, 220-pound frame against towering opponents like Tyson Fury (6’9″, 270 pounds). However, his exceptional technique and boxing IQ proved size isn’t everything. In 2021, he defeated Anthony Joshua to claim multiple titles, showcasing his ability to outclass larger opponents. A rematch in 2022 saw Usyk retain his titles with another dominant win. He would follow that up beating Daniel Dubois a young up and comer at 27 who is currently ranked 2nd in the heavyweight division.
Defeating Tyson Fury Usyk’s debated but critical win over Fury cemented his status among the elite. Beating an undefeated champion regarded as one of the best heavyweights highlighted Usyk’s adaptability, technical brilliance, and resilience. Fury had the resume to back up a case for himself beating Deontay Wilder (twice) and Wladimir Klitschko
The Case for Top 10 All-Time Transitioning seamlessly from cruiserweight to heavyweight, Usyk conquered the division with wins over top names like Joshua, Dubois ,and Fury. His rise most resembles Michael Spinks to me, and under rated fighter/heavyweight himself. At 37, his success despite a late heavyweight start and significant size disadvantages underscores his mastery, though time is not on his side.
Usyk’s Place Among the All-Time Greats
With wins over Joshua (Twice), Dubois ,and Fury (Twice) he sits a top this era of the heavyweight divison. Here are the Ring Magazine ranks of each.
Usyk
Fury
Wilder
Joshua
2024
2023
1
2
10
3
2022
1
2
3
4
2021
2
1
4
3
2020
1
3
2
2019
1
2
3
2018
2
3
1
2017
1
3
2
2016
1
3
6
2015
1
4
11
2014
4
7
2013
6
11
2012
11
Rank
Top Modern Heavyweight Fighters
Years Active
Record (Wins – Losses – Draws)
Years Held Title
1
Muhammad Ali
1960 – 1981
56 – 5 – 0
1964 – 1967, 1974 – 1978
2
Lennox Lewis
1989 – 2004
41 – 2 – 1
1993 – 1994, 1997 – 2001, 2001 – 2003
3
George Foreman
1969 – 1997
76 – 5 – 0
1973 – 1974, 1994 – 1995
4
Larry Holmes
1973 – 2002
69 – 6 – 0
1978 – 1985
5
Joe Frazier
1965 – 1981
32 – 4 – 1
1970 – 1973
6
Vitali Klitschko
1996 – 2012
45 – 2 – 0
1999 – 2000, 2004 – 2012
7
Oleksandr Usyk
2013-2024
23-0
2020-2024
8
Evander Holyfield
1984 – 2011
44 – 10 – 2
1990, 1993 – 1994, 1996 – 1999, 2000 – 2001
9
Mike Tyson
1985 – 2005
50 – 6 – 0
1986 – 1990
10
Riddick Bowe
1989 – 2008
43 – 1 – 0
1992 – 1993
Ken Norton, Wladimir Klitschko, Tyson Fury, and Michael Spinks were some of the next names considered.
Conclusion: Usyk’s Legacy and Future
In the context of the modern heavyweight division, Oleksandr Usyk has already accomplished what many thought improbable: he has become a champion in two divisions and defeated some of the biggest names in boxing. His victory over Tyson Fury only strengthens his case as one of the top heavyweights of all time IMO and if he were to retire today I think he has to be ranked there. While he may not yet surpass the all-time legends like Muhammad Ali or Lennox Lewis, Usyk’s place in the top 10 is undeniable, and his career is far from over. With his unique blend of skill, resilience, and intelligence, Usyk has already etched his name among the best of the best, and his future looks just as promising although it’s probably a short window of greatness at 37.
