Oleksandr Usyk has cemented his place among boxing's elite. The Ukrainian fighter's recent victories over Tyson Fury have caught the attention of legendary trainer and commentator Teddy Atlas, who now considers Usyk one of the greatest heavyweights in history.
Usyk's journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. He grabbed Olympic gold in London in 2012, setting the stage for a professional career that would see him dominate two weight classes. In 2018, he became the undisputed cruiserweight champion. Fast forward to 2024, and he's achieved the same feat 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 clinched a split decision win against Fury, claiming all four heavyweight belts. He followed that up with an even more convincing performance in their December rematch, securing a unanimous decision victory with scores of 116-112 on all cards.
Atlas shared his thoughts on Usyk's achievements on his podcast. The respected trainer didn't hold back in his praise:
"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 greats:
"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 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 secure. His journey from Olympic champion to undisputed champion in two weight classes has been marked by skill, determination, and class - qualities that have earned him a place among the sport's legends.
