Fight of the Millennium: Usyk’s historic victory over Fury and a symbolic gesture with Mazepa’s saber

On December 21, in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk defeated the British Tyson Fury in a rematch and became the absolute heavyweight champion of the world according to the WBC, WBA and WBO versions. The rematch, which took place at the crowded Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, ended after 12 rounds with a unanimous decision of the judges – three times 116:112. Fans called this match legendary, historic and even “the fight of the millennium”.

Usyk dedicated his victory to his mother and “all mothers of Ukraine”. He also brought to the ring a unique saber of the 17th century that belonged to hetman Ivan Mazepa, symbolizing the connection with the history of Ukraine and reminding the world of the outstanding hetman who fought for the freedom of his state 300 years ago. According to the organizers, this gesture is important for popularizing Ukrainian culture in the international arena.

Photo: suspilne.media

The unique saber of the 17th century was brought to Saudi Arabia under the strict control of museum experts to become part of the ritual in the ring for the first time in the history of boxing. According to the Chernihiv Regional History Museum named after Tarnovsky, this relic is an example of Ukrainian weaponry, which was formed under the influence of Eastern cultures. The saber belonged to Hetman Ivan Mazepa, who presented it to his vassal Savych for his devoted service, and later it became part of Vasyl Tarnovsky’s collection.

The saber demonstration project in the ring was implemented thanks to the cooperation of the Usyk Charitable Foundation, the Ukraine WOW organization, the Chernihiv Historical Museum, the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine, as well as partners from Saudi Arabia. The organizers note that such initiatives contribute to drawing attention to the history of outstanding Ukrainians and their contribution to world culture.

The inscription on the blade of the saber reads as follows: “I put all my hope in you, Mother of God, protect me under your cover!”. It also depicts the crowned Mother of God with a child, which is popularly called the “Unfading Flower”, as well as other symbols of faith.

This event became a unique manifestation of the unity of sports, history and culture of Ukraine.