Oleksandr Usyk is a legend of Ukrainian boxing, the holder of the absolute world champion titles in both the first heavyweight and super heavyweight divisions. His achievements inspire millions, and his fighting style and character have brought him worldwide recognition.
Path to the top of boxing
Usyk’s sports career began under the guidance of James Ali Bashir in the K2 Promotions company. Already in his first fights, he demonstrated high class, and won the world champion title (WBO) in his tenth fight, defeating Krzysztof Glowacki.
Key moments of his career
- Fight with Mairis Briedis (2018): Oleksandr got the WBC belt after a tough 12-round confrontation.
- Final with Murat Gassiev (2018): in Moscow, Usyk unified all the main titles of the first heavyweight division, becoming the absolute champion.
- Matches with Anthony Joshua (2021 and 2022): after a confident victory in London, Usyk proved his superiority in the rematch.
- Victory over Tyson Fury (2024): in a historic fight, he confirmed his status as one of the strongest boxers of our time.
Childhood and youth
Alexander was born on January 17, 1987 in Simferopol. From an early age, he tried different sports – football, judo, folk dancing. However, boxing became his destiny when, as a teenager, he got into Sergey Lapin’s section.
The first successes were not long in coming: already at the age of 19, Usyk won a gold medal at the Ukrainian Championship and bronze at the European tournament.
Family and personal priorities
Alexander’s wife, Ekaterina, has supported him since his youth. The couple is raising three children: daughter Elizaveta and sons Kirill and Mikhail. Despite intense training and fights, Usyk always finds time for his family, remaining a devoted husband and father.
Oleksandr Usyk: the best knockouts
Hobbies and unusual facts
- As a child, Usyk was involved in folk dancing and even performed the hopak after his victories in the ring.
- A football career could have become his life’s path, but circumstances turned out differently.
- Faith plays an important role in his life, especially after the events that he himself calls a miracle.
- The 2012 Olympic medal remains his most precious award.
Civic position
After the outbreak of the armed conflict in eastern Ukraine, Usyk actively supported the Ukrainian military. In 2022, he joined the territorial defense, and his subsequent victories in the ring became a symbol of the strength of spirit of the Ukrainian people.
Awards and records
- the first holder of the absolute world heavyweight champion title in 25 years (2024).
- World heavyweight champion (since 2021).
- Absolute champion in the first heavyweight (2018).
- Winner of the London Olympics (2012).
- Numerous awards from international boxing organizations.
Oleksandr Usyk is more than a box champion. His story is an example of courage, dedication and devotion to his values. In and out of the ring, he remains a symbol of resilience and inspiration to many.