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          A new champion: Reactions to Oleksandr Usyk's victory against Anthony Joshua

          • William E. Ricks
          Sep 25, 2021, 07:06 PM ET

          Oleksandr Usyk walked into enemy territory and took down hometown hero Anthony Joshua to become unified heavyweight world champion. Usyk topped Joshua with a tremendous performance that resulted in a unanimous decision victory over the defending champion.

          Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, caught Joshua a number of times and kept him on his toes with his slick, agile movement and strong jabs. Neither fighter hit the canvas, but Joshua was rattled a number of times throughout the fight.

          The boxing world was impressed by Usyk's victory, and the scene of nearly 70,000 fans created a memorable fight environment.

          Former boxing trainer and current ESPN analyst Teddy Atlas congratulated Usyk for his victory and even gave the judges a nod for grading the fight correctly.

          Andre Ward, a former lightweight heavyweight champ, also showed love to Usyk, even explaining how the Ukrainian boxer won his bout with Joshua.

          More people from the boxing world chimed in on Usyk's upset. Shawn Porter, who has 31 knockouts on his résumé, enjoyed the action, summarizing it in a three-word tweet. Danny "Swift" Garcia, a champion boxer in two divisions, offered high praise to Usyk after his exceptional performance.

          NBA star Damian Lillard was active on Twitter throughout the fight, and he believes Usyk will be an even tougher match for Joshua the next time they fight -- if that happens.

          Pro boxing trainer Joe Gallagher knows a thing or two about the sport, and he made sure to congratulate Usyk for what he called a "class performance."

          Usyk already has a fighter who wants to challenge him for his new belts. Joe Joyce, a British boxer who is the WBO International and European champion, called out Usyk shortly after the fight, saying that he wants his shot at the championships.

          Oscar De La Hoya sent a message to both fighters on social media, congratulating Usyk on his victory, and encouraging Joshua to keep working despite the defeat.

          Even though he was on the losing side of this title fight, Joshua was in good spirits postmatch. He thanked the London crowd for its support and aims to stay positive until his next opportunity arises.