"I couldn't have asked for more": Tony Bellew recalls undisputed title fight with Usyk

Bellew's quest for undisputed status fell short against the pound-for-pound king

Bellew put up a valiant effort but was ultimately outclassed by Usyk's superior skill and size

Tony Bellew has reflected on his undisputed cruiserweight title fight with Oleksandr Usyk, describing it as the "pinnacle" of his career.

Bellew, who retired from boxing in 2018, challenged Usyk for the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles in November 2018. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Bellew was outclassed by Usyk's superior skill and size, eventually losing by eighth-round TKO.

"It was the pinnacle of my career," Bellew told Sky Sports. "I couldn't have asked for more. To share the ring with someone like Oleksandr Usyk, who I believe is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, was an honour."

Bellew admitted that he was outmatched by Usyk, but he was proud of his performance.

"I knew I was out of my depth," Bellew said. "But I gave it everything I had. I left everything in the ring that night."

Usyk, who has since moved up to heavyweight and won the WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, praised Bellew for his toughness and heart.

"Tony is a true warrior," Usyk said. "He never gave up. He kept coming forward. I have a lot of respect for him."

Bellew's undisputed title fight with Usyk was a defining moment in his career. It was a reminder of his talent and determination, even if he ultimately came up short.