A few days ago Oleksandr Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) left his native Ukraine and crossed the Ukrainian-Hungarian border. Now he is in the Czech Republic, where he began the first part of preparations for a rematch with Anthony Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs). Over time, the Ukrainian team plans to move the camp to another place.
Until recently, it seemed obvious that the re-fight Usyk-Joshua would again be held in the UK, but there was information that Saudi Arabia was ready to offer $ 120 million for this fight. The date was even announced - June 25th. Despite this, a football stadium in the UK is still the most likely venue for a rematch. At the turn of June and July, Usyk and Joshua will once again cross gloves and challenge the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight belts.
“I wanted to stay and defend Ukraine, but my friends convinced me that I would achieve more by fighting in the ring, and not by shooting from a machine gun. It was a really hard decision. Now I'm training in the Czech Republic because I have friends here, but I won't stay here for long. I'd better move the camp to where I fight. And immediately after the rematch with Joshua, I will return to my homeland, ”said the former king of the first heavyweight, and today the heavyweight champion in several versions.
“I try to focus mostly on training and don’t follow the news. I only do it sometimes. Family and friends even urged me to turn off my phone and focus only on preparation. I have to show myself well in the ring and thus represent Ukraine. This is not an easy situation, but prayers and appeals to God help me, ”Usyk added.
