#boxstr
follows is one of the most iconic moments in modern boxing history. A true case of life imitating art.
Tyson Fury had been out of the ring for 2 and a half years following his victory over Wladimir Klitschko, a fight in which he became unified heavyweight champion against the odds. He battled alcoholism and depression and ballooned to 400lbs, before shedding 150lbs after reigniting his career with new trainer Ben Davison.
After two warm up fights, he went straight in against the most feared puncher in the division, WBC champ, Deontay Wilder. The Bronze Bomber had won all 40 fights, 39 by knockout. In fact, the only bout he went to points in was against Bermane Stiverne, who he later recorded a 1st round knockout of.
Many thought that it was a mismatch, and some even believed that it wouldn't go ahead. Fury boxed on the back foot, and, despite hitting the canvas in the 9th, onlookers believed he was on course to record a points win. Until the 12th round, when Wilder uncorked a typically devastating right hand.
There are two videos below, the first being the round in its entirety, and the second, a short which shows Wilder's Apollo Creed style reaction at what unfolded. The fight set the stage for arguably the greatest modern day heavyweight trilogy, one to rival any in history.
