Oleksandr Usyk first defended Ukraine with weapons. Now he is going to get into the boxing ring.
Oleksandr Usyk will face Anthony Joshua in a boxing ring. AOP
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk, 35, returned to his homeland after Russia launched an offensive war, but has now left the war behind.
Heavyweight World Champion and Olympic champion Usyk left the front to prepare for a rematch Anthony Joshua against.
He said at a press conference in the Czech Republic that he had received a lot of support from the Ukrainians for his decision. He had a month to defend the arms of Ukraine.
– I remember, for example, how my children ran into the basement every time they heard the sound of a whistle. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, not even my enemy, Usyk told the Czech isportin by.
In Ukraine, men between the ages of 18 and 60 are not allowed to leave the country without a special permit. Usyk was apparently allowed to leave because parents with at least three children under the age of 18 can leave without special permission. Usyk has three children, all under the age of 18.
According to Usyk, his friends and older combat comrades also said his fighting was in sports, not on the front lines.
– They said: “you should go so that our flag is visible and everyone hears about Ukraine. That’s how you help us too. ”
Usyk was in London when he heard about the war of aggression launched by Russia. His wife sent a text message saying the war had begun.
Usyk traveled a total of 48 hours before reaching Kiev.
– Eventually I saw my family and I was relieved when I got to them. I also had friends in my home from Mariupol whose homes were completely bombed.
Wouldn’t talk to Putin
Some Russian athletes have publicly given their support to the war of aggression launched by Vladimir Putin.
One of them has been boxer Aleksandr Povetkin.
– As an Orthodox Christian, I have been raised not to judge anyone, not to curse anyone. But he who supports war is only mentally ill. He can’t be described in any way other than as a sick person, Usyk said.
Usyk was also asked what he would say to Putin if he had a chance to talk to him.
– Nothing. I have nothing to say to a person like that.
Usyk will not be long in the Czech Republic as Usyk flies to a finishing camp in the Middle East, either in Saudi Arabia, Qatar or Dubai.
Joshua and Usyk may meet next summer in late June in Saudi Arabia.
The duo faced in September last year, when Usyk took the victory with all the votes. The victory was a surprise, as Joshua was considered a pre-favorite.