Tyson Fury Heavyweight Champion Of The World

In one of the greatest upsets in heavyweight boxing history the 27-year-old Tyson Fury, perhaps the most aptly named heavyweight champion in history, defeated Wladimir Klitschko; and in doing so derailed the boxing dynasty that had dominated the heavyweight ranks since the turn of the millennium.

Fury became the eight British heavyweight champion in boxing history, after: Bob Fitzsimmons; Michael Bentt; Herbie Hide; Frank Bruno; Henry Akinwande; Lennox Lewis; and David Haye. By beating Klitschko: Fury became Lineal, WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO and The Ring magazine unified heavyweight champion. He has a perfect record as a professional (25-0). Wladimir Klitschko held the heavyweight championship for 4382 days over two reigns, and was therefore the longest reigning heavyweight champion in history. At 39, Klitschko was in peak physical condition and had not been defeated for eleven years; most thought he would retire undefeated and could not be beaten, in light of the spectrum of professional heavyweights worldwide.

Fury is a straight-talking, god-fearing, singing, Lancashire-based fighter of traveller descent: who has taken the heavyweight boxing world by storm; under the guidance of his trainer Uncle Peter and his father John.

Fury stands at 6’9″ and with a reach of 85″. Klitschko unusually, therefore, had to face a bigger man; but moreover a unique heavyweight who can switch comfortably between an orthodox and a southpaw stance. To most observers, Fury dominated the fight in Klitschko’s adopted German hometown; and looked relaxed throughout the fight of his life. Indeed, he regularly dropped his guard completely and goaded Klitschko to attack; which the Ukranian rarely did. Fury topped off his twelve round unanimous points victory with a rendition of Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing,” dedicated to his wife Paris and his fans throughout the world.

Whilst, one of the greatest British sporting achievements/upsets in history has not yet received the recognition it deserves: this writer believes Fury will go on to even greater things. In the short to medium term: a rematch against Klitschko is his first hurdle. Unifying and reigning over the heavyweight division again (including reclaiming the IBF title which he did not lose in the ring) will undoubtedly be his long term mission. Tyson Fury could indeed live up to his name and become one of the greatest heavyweights in boxing history.

MQ Bismil is a writer and thinker; with a personal and professional interest in sports; and interest in Heavyweight boxing. His views are his own and unrelated to his profession.

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This post was written by MQ Bismil