For the first time since David Haye and Evander Holyfield before that, the cruiserweight division tonight was able to say it has a recognized champion at the weight.
Oleksandr Usyk won a comfortable unanimous points decision tonight in the final of the World Boxing Super Series against Murat Gassiev in Moscow, Russia.
Right from the get go Usyk established a piston-like jab. A punch that largely controlled the contest in the end.
Its prolific output kept Gassiev off-balance for large periods and unable to close the distance to get anything consistent off in terms of sustained attacks and combinations.
Having said that, Gassiev had some success with single shots to the body and the head at times in the bout but even when he did, Usyk sucked them up and looked like a man on a mission.
Totally unable to be discouraged by anything from Gassiev.
Usyk landed some strong uppercuts off the jab and boxed beautifully as the fight wore on.
His footwork and speed of foot and hand was just that bit too much for Gassiev. Always a step ahead.
Usyk was able to pivot out of trouble whenever Gassiev got close more often than not.
The left hook – right hand combination also proved a potent weapon for Usyk.
Usyk showed himself to be a complete fighter tonight.
A boxer, a puncher, insane work rate and stamina, all the shots in the book, punch resistance when he needed it and an unquenchable thirst to win.
All in all, a great way to end the cruiserweight WBSS first season tonight in Russia.
