Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk calls for Azovstal defenders' release at weigh-in with Tyson Fury – photo

Stanislav Lysak — Friday, 20 December 2024, 23:02

Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs), the Ukrainian world heavyweight champion boxer who holds the WBA, WBO and IBO titles, delivered a powerful message during a weigh-in with British fighter Tyson Fury (34-1-1, 24 KOs), unfurling a flag that read "Free Azovstal Defenders" to express his support for the Ukrainian POWs held in Russian captivity.

Source: Champion, a sports news platform within Ukrainska Pravda’s holding company

Details: The Ukrainian boxer has been actively involved in charity work since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, donating over US$10 million to various causes.

Oleksandr Usyk with a flag that read "Free Azovstal Defenders" and Tyson Fury.

Photo: RIYADH SEASON

Ahead of their first fight, Usyk collaborated with DTEK, Ukraine's largest private energy company, to draw international partners' and allies' attention to the dire state of Ukraine's energy system.

Background: The Gypsy King was, as predicted, heavier than the Ukrainian champion, although neither boxer removed their clothing during the weigh-in:

Tyson Fury: 127.4 kg
Oleksandr Usyk: 102.5 kg

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