Oleksandr Usyk has beaten some of the UK’s best boxers, yet they still love him
The first undisputed world heavyweight champion of this century, Oleksandr Usyk, was in attendance on Saturday, September 21, at Wembley Stadium, seated at ringside to watch two of his former foes clash for the IBF belt that he gave up for them.
It was Daniel Dubois – who Usyk stopped in nine rounds last year – who triumphed in the all-British battle for the IBF World heavyweight title, over Anthony Joshua – who Usyk beat twice before.
During the night, Usyk was greeted warmly by the British public, as well as by MMA star Conor McGregor and even by his last victim, Tyson Fury.
One thing that’s clear is that the UK love the Ukrainian fighter and can’t get enough of him, but why? He has beaten half a dozen British boxers, but instead of being the enemy, he is treated like royalty on these shores.
The 37-year-old two-division undisputed champion admitted the feeling was mutual and explained exactly why there’s such a good relationship shared with UK fight fans, “| love UK fans because a lot of UK fans understand boxing.
“I have a big story with UK fighters, yes. Joe Joyce, Tony Bellew, Derek Chisora, Anthony Joshua, Daniel Dubois, Tyson Fury.
“But I love UK fans, the country. This is just sport. I have a community for my opponents. I respect these guys. Message on Instagram. They’re my rivals, but we’re friends.”
And the Eastern European will be continuing to fight Brits for the foreseeable future. Firstly, he has rematch booked in with ‘The Gypsy King’ on December 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
If he wins again, then it’s highly likely he’ll be facing another British boxer next.
The IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois wants revenge, and a rematch will be interesting after the incredible run the ascending 27-year-old has been on in the last nine months, defeating Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic and Anthony Joshua, all be knockout.