Patriotic fervour the spur for Ukrainian boxing legend Oleksandr Usyk

Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk said that his late father, who fought in the Soviet Army, was the seminal influence on his career. PHOTO: AFP

UPDATED Mar 28, 2025, 12:19 PM

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PARIS – Ukraine’s boxing icon Oleksandr Usyk said he will stay in the sport “a little longer” so he can provide “financial support to our army and civilians” and also achieve his goal of again being undisputed heavyweight world champion.

The 38-year-old, who holds all the belts except the IBF (International Boxing Federation) version which belongs to Daniel Dubois, has been galvanised by the war ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in late February 2022.

His exploits – two memorable victories over British opponent Tyson Fury plus others over Anthony Joshua and Dubois – have helped keep his beleaguered country very much in people’s minds.

In an interview, Usyk said his father, who fought in the Soviet Army, was the seminal influence on his career.

He says he has been inspired by “both the heroes of the past and the modern Ukrainian heroes who are now defending our homeland in the armed forces”.

“Representing Ukraine on the global sports stage, spreading the truth about the war, and providing financial support to our army and civilians – this is also a powerful motivation for me to stay in professional boxing a little longer,” he said.