At the first heavyweight title fight on U.S. soil in 16 years, American boxing fans got treated to a legendary bout, even if the decision didn’t offer much in the way of resolution.
In the end, reigning WBC champion Deontay Wilder retained his crown on Saturday night after fighting to a split draw against British challenger Tyson Fury in front of 17,698 fans at Los Angeles’ Staples Center. But the fight itself was a dramatic, unforgettable give-and-take between two giants, with Fury somehow surviving being knocked down in both the ninth and the final round to reach a stalemate.
Even though he didn’t win, the performance was nevertheless an incredible vindication for Fury, who, just a year ago, weighed more than 400 pounds and was struggling to overcome drug and alcohol addiction. In an incredible display of discipline, Fury willed and worked himself back into shape to earn his shot at the title.
The draw leaves both fighter’s professional careers unblemished by a loss: Wilder’s record is now 40–0–1 and Fury’s is 27–0–1.
Rematch, anyone?
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