Usyk's Unrecognized Brilliance, According to Quijano
In the world of boxing, Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated Ukrainian boxer, currently stands as one of the sport's most formidable figures. With a 24-0 record, an Olympic gold medal, and the undisputed champion in both cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, Usyk's prowess is undeniable. However, his name is not yet synonymous with the all-time greats in heavyweight boxing.
This discrepancy can be attributed to several factors. Usyk has only fought 8 times at heavyweight, a smaller number compared to the decades-long careers of other heavyweight legends. His marquee wins, including victories over Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, have occurred primarily in the last few years, leaving his legacy still in the process of being cemented.
Usyk's style, highly technical, fast, and southpaw, produces fewer highlight-reel moments than some previous heavyweight stars. His subdued and systematic fighting approach, often behind a sharpshooting stance, may also limit broader mainstream reverence.
Moreover, some big marquee fights, such as challenges against Tyson Fury, were delayed or stalled, impacting Usyk's opportunity for higher-profile unification or ring dominance that typically generates GOAT-level buzz.
In the recent rematch against Daniel Dubois, a French boxer, Usyk countered Dubois effectively during exchanges. Dubois, who was the aggressor from the opening bell, was dropped by Usyk with a short right to the temple in the 5th round, leading to another victory for the undisputed champion. It's worth noting that in their first match, Dubois had previously been defeated by Usyk in the 9th round.
Usyk's list of victories includes notable names such as Marco Huck, Tony Bellew, Derek Chisora, Anthony Joshua, Dubois, and Tyson Fury. As he continues defending his titles and adding to his resume, Usyk's recognition among the historical greats is expected to increase substantially.
However, the question of Usyk's all-time greatness is one that will be determined by time. His undisputed heavyweight reign, unique achievements, and undefeated record already place him among modern boxing’s elite, but his relatively short tenure at heavyweight and fewer fights so far contribute to why broader all-time greatness reverence is still growing and not yet fully established.
[1] Boxing News (2023). Usyk's All-Time Greatness: A Look at the Factors Influencing Recognition. [Online]. Available: https://www.boxingnews.com/features/usyks-all-time-greatness-a-look-at-the-factors-influencing-recognition/
[2] ESPN (2023). Usyk's Path to Undisputed Heavyweight Champion. [Online]. Available: https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/34169072/usyks-path-undisputed-heavyweight-champion
[3] The Guardian (2023). Usyk's Style: A Technical Masterclass in the Ring. [Online]. Available: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/mar/12/usyks-style-a-technical-masterclass-in-the-ring
[4] BBC Sport (2023). Usyk's Road to Greatness: The Roadblocks and Triumphs. [Online]. Available: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/57298412
- The world of sports underwent a shift when Oleksandr Usyk consistently showed his dominance in the boxing arena, leading to his status as one of the sports' most formidable figures.
- Usyk's current standing within the pantheon of all-time greats in boxing is yet to be solidified, despite his undisputed champion title in both cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.
