Boxer Ukraine, Oleksandr Usykchose to return home after learning his country was under attack from Russia since Thursday (24/2).
Ukraine is known as one of the producing countries for famous boxing athletes. Call it the Klitschko brothers, Vitali and Vladimir. Now Usyk is the next generation of Ukrainian boxing.
Usyk rose to fame after defeating Anthony Joshua in the heavyweight fight and was entitled to the WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO belts in the duel that took place in September 2021.
Had been in England for work a few days ago, Usyk has now returned to Ukraine.
“Someone said I ran away. No, I didn’t run away, I was working and now I’m back. I’m at home,” Usyk said.
“Friends, we must unite because of the difficult situation right now and I am so emotional and worried for my country and our people. Friends, we have to stop this war, we are all together,” he continued.
Ukrainian athletes and ex-athletes have been calling for peace since a few days ago, but they have also expressed readiness to defend their country in the midst of an urgent situation.
Earlier Vitali, who is now the Mayor of Kiev, stated his readiness to take up arms against Russia. While the younger brother, Vladimir is also said to have enlisted in the military earlier this month.
“Right now the Russian president is using war rhetoric. He has clearly stated that he wants to destroy Ukraine and the sovereignty of its people,” Vladimir said. ESPN.
(nva/nva)
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