Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk in the ring during their first bout
(Image: Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk rematch sparks outrage with 'disappointing' undercard

by · Manchester Evening News

Boxing enthusiasts have voiced their discontent over the "hugely disappointing" support bouts for the highly-anticipated heavyweight rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. The two titans are set to face off once again in Saudi Arabia on December 21.

Usyk made history in their first bout in May by becoming the undisputed heavyweight world champion, a feat not achieved since Lennox Lewis in 1999. That match in Riyadh handed Fury his first professional defeat, with 'The Gypsy King' now hungering for payback against his formidable adversary.

Following the close defeat by split decision, Fury is eager to secure a conclusive victory that doesn't leave his destiny in the judges' hands. Although the initial duel was for the undisputed championship, the forthcoming clash won't see all titles at stake due to Usyk renouncing his IBF belt.

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Nonetheless, the night still holds the promise of a monumental boxing event - Turki Alalshikh has recently unveiled the complete lineup for the undercard in December. Considered one of the brightest futures of the division, the unbeaten heavyweight Moses Itauma will step back into the ring, taking on Demsey McKean as part of the undercard.

The young prodigy enters following an emphatic triumph over Mariusz Wach, aiming to maintain his unblemished record, reports the Mirror. Also on the undercard, an all-British heavyweight clash between Johnny Fisher and Dave Allen is scheduled.

Dennis McCann is also set to feature, defending his European super-bantamweight title against Peter McGrail. A bout between former 154lb champions Israil Madrimov and Serhii Bohachuk will serve as the co-main event.

Despite the presence of several big names, fans have largely expressed disappointment. One user commented: "S*** card. Absolutely s***. Johnny Fisher vs Dave Allen? FFS.'' Another posted: "Hugely disappointing. I was hoping to see Parker, Bakole, Zhang and Kabayel.

"Allen shouldn't be fighting anymore, he'll have brain damage." While another upset fan added: "Massive disappointment. Worst Riyadh card ever."

While most fans remain unimpressed by the card, a few are excited about the co-main event. "Madrimov Bohachuk is such a good fight," one fan remarked. Another wrote: "Yoooo Serhil vs Madrimov is low key a banger.

"Madrimov vs Bohachuk is an amazing co-main." In a post uploaded to X - formerly known as Twitter - Saudi boxing chief Alalshikh stated: "Before the two giants collide in Fury vs Usyk Reignited, the undercard is set to light up the ring.

"With some of the biggest names in boxing stepping into the ring, these matchups will set the stage for an unforgettable night. Mark your calendars - December 21 is a night you won't want to miss."

Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury II full undercard

Serhii Bohachuk vs Israil Madrimov

Moses Itauma vs Demsey McKean

Johnny Fisher vs Dave Allen

Dennis McCann vs Peter McGrail

Isaac Lowe vs Lee McGregor