The unified world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, in a recent candid interview, returned to the topic of the war in Ukraine, sharing his personal experiences and harsh assessment of the position of those who justify the actions of Russia.
The Ukrainian boxer stated that although he did take up arms in the early days of the full-scale invasion, he never shot at people. “Perhaps I took up arms, but that does not mean that I would use it. I have never shot anyone,” the champion emphasized.
Usyk noted the profound influence of Orthodox upbringing, which forbids judging others. However, he couldn’t contain his emotions towards the supporters of the war: “I was brought up in the Orthodox faith, which teaches us not to judge others. But for me, someone who supports the war is a schizophrenic, a sick person.”
According to the athlete, it is especially difficult to watch the suffering of loved ones during shellings. “It is terrible when your family runs to hide in the basement when the alarm is heard,” he added, describing the everyday horror that families in Ukraine endure.
Let us remind you that Usyk will have his next fight against Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven on May 23 in Giza (Egypt) near the pyramids — a special WBC belt will be on the line.
