Max Boxing – Sub Lead – Maxboxing 2024 Fighter of the Year

The 2024 Maxboxing Fighter of the Year is a former Olympic gold medalist who turned professional at 26. 

He began his career as a cruiserweight, winning a world title in his 10th fight. The hype was real. He captured a heavyweight title five years later and became undisputed in 2024. 

Even with these accomplishments, Fighter of the Year Oleksandr Usyk has often been the underdog in many fights. The Ukrainian native is the ultimate road warrior. He won his cruiserweight belt in America – his heavyweight world title in England. Several had felt he was too small to campaign in the heavyweight division. 

Many were wrong.

Smaller, yes, but technically more proficient and mentally attuned to what is required. Usyk defeated former champ Anthony Joshua twice. Neither fight was easy. Usyk outfoxed an improved Joshua in the sequel. He stopped Daniel Dubois.  

Next up was towering Tyson Fury, who held the WBC strap. Fury was undefeated – six inches taller and roughly 50 pounds heavier than Usyk. Fury did well in the opening rounds, banking many. He appeared to be leading until Usyk changed the complexion of the fight with one punch. A straight left wobbled Fury. Followup blows had him reeling around the ring. Usyk finished strong to cement the decision in his favor. 

The rematch last month was close. Fury threw more punches, but Usyk landed 35 more. His tight defense and combinations up and down befuddled Fury. Like the first fight, he did better as the fight progressed. 

The verdict was his unanimously.  

As is the decision to name him the Maxboxing 2024 Fighter of the Year.