Tyson Fury felt he was robbed of victory against Oleksandr Usyk before appearing to accuse the judges of using Ukraine's war with Russia to favour the 37-year-old.
The Gypsy King was the slight favourite heading into the clash due to his size, but it was Usyk who came out the blocks in the early rounds.
Fury soon settled into a rhythm as Usyk struggled to figure out a second plan.
That was until the ninth round when Usyk suddenly rocked Fury with a brutal left hand that left him staggering around the ring.
Oleksandr Usyk won via a split decision
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Fury's eyes were gone, but referee Mark Nelson refused to step in and stop the fight there and then.
It was ruled a knockdown as Fury needed the ropes to try and stay on his feet, but he ended up being saved by the bell.
The 35-year-old was able to recover enough to stay in the fight and trouble Usyk in the latter rounds, but the damage appears to be done.
The close fight was reflected in the scorecards as Usyk was crowned undisputed heavyweight champion via split decision.
But Fury didn't agree with the scores from the judges.
"I believe I won that fight," Fury said.
"I believe he won a few rounds but I won more of them.
"His country's at war so people are siding with the country at war.
Tyson Fury was nearly knocked out in the ninth round
GETTY
"Make no mistake I won that fight and I'll be back.
"We go back to our families and we run it back in October.
"I'm not going to sit here and cry and make excuses."
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Usyk was visibly emotional after being crowned undisputed champion as he burst into tears during his interview in the ring.
He paid tribute to his late father, who passed away just days after he won gold at the London 2012 Olympics.
"I'm very happy," he said.
"My people will be very happy I think, it's a big win, not only for me, it's a big win for my country, for soldiers who now defend my country.
"I think my father now is watching over me and is very happy. Dad, I love you. I can, you told me I can."
