Fury and Usyk showcased their exceptional skills over 24 thrilling rounds in Riyadh, with their closely contested first encounter in May prompting the need for a rematch.
In their second fight, Fury claimed victory, but the judges awarded Usyk a unanimous decision, highlighting a divergence in perspectives.
The lavish influence of Saudi Arabia on the boxing scene was evident, featuring a dazzling hologram of the fighters and a musical performance by a drummer accompanying Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger."
Despite the opulence surrounding the event, it was Fury and Usyk who remained the focal points, delivering on the anticipation and providing exhilarating heavyweight bouts.
"Tyson Fury makes me strong. Tyson Fury continues to motivate me, he is a great opponent," a bruised Usyk said in the post-fight news conference.
"A big man, a big boxer. He is a great man. I respect Tyson Fury. It is already history."
Boxing is one of the most accessible sports, which explains the global fascination with events like a YouTuber facing a 58-year-old fighter.However, few truly understand its complexities. Fury and Usyk are not only knowledgeable about the sport; they could effectively teach its principles.
Fury began his senior amateur career nearly two decades ago, while Usyk has been involved in boxing since 2006.
After enduring lengthy and challenging careers—marked by intense training camps, emotional struggles, and physical tolls from sparring and fights—they still managed to produce a remarkable performance.
Fury's journey through substance abuse and mental health challenges during a break from boxing, followed by a remarkable weight loss and reclaiming a world title, underscores the extraordinary talent of one of heavyweight boxing's finest technicians.
Usyk is recognized as one of the most astute strategists in boxing—a composed athlete capable of assessing situations, modifying his tactics during a fight, and accelerating his performance when it counts. He has demonstrated this ability twice in just six months on the biggest stage.
While all boxers deserve recognition for their bravery and dedication in the ring, only a select few can be hailed as transformative figures in the sport.
Both Fury and Usyk belong to this elite group. Their legacies are assured, and they will forever be remembered for the era they shaped together.
Iconic heavyweight trilogies, such as Muhammad Ali versus Joe Frazier, Riddick Bowe against Evander Holyfield, and Fury's battles with Deontay Wilder, hold a unique significance in boxing history.
Fury feels he has been wronged and is eager for a third match with Usyk. Given the outcomes of their initial encounters, there is certainly interest in a rematch.
Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois is seeking his own chance at redemption after his defeat to Usyk 18 months ago. The Londoner, who claimed the IBF title by defeating Anthony Joshua, made a bold entrance into the ring on Saturday to challenge Usyk for an undisputed title fight.
However, Usyk believes Dubois should focus on his upcoming defense against former world champion Joseph Parker in February.
"It's too early to mention Daniel Dubois' name," he said.
"Now I want to go back home, rest, turn off my phone, sit and look in the sky and how the trees grow.
"Not think about Dubois [or] Tyson Fury. Just rest and play with my children."
Is the moment finally here for Joshua versus Fury?
Promoter Frank Warren indicated that Fury will take some time to evaluate his options, though there has been no indication from either the fighter or his team that retirement is a possibility.
After years of unsuccessful negotiations, this could be an ideal and realistic opportunity for Fury to engage in an all-British showdown with Joshua.
There are no barriers to this matchup. The absence of world titles is somewhat advantageous, as it means we are not dependent on specific outcomes or mandatory challengers needing to step aside.
Joshua faced a significant defeat against Dubois in September, leading some boxing fans to believe that the opportunity for a Fury-Joshua fight has passed.
However, Eddie Hearn, promoter for the two-time world champion, labels it as the "biggest fight" in Britain.
The definition of "biggest" is subjective.
Fury versus Joshua may no longer represent the pinnacle of boxing, but is it better to have it late than never? The rivalry is rich in history. So what do we stand to lose?
Even the most skeptical fans are likely to be drawn in by the inevitable drama that Fury will bring to a press conference, or when the usually composed Joshua reacts to Fury's provocations.
Their impact and celebrity extend beyond the sport itself.
If 60 million viewers are willing to watch Mike Tyson face Jake Paul, then even versions of Fury and Joshua past their prime—despite their losses—are sure to attract a significant audience.
The loser, or perhaps both fighters, can then enjoy a final lucrative payday as they ride off into the sunset. - BBC Sport