From Football to Boxing: 5 Must-Know Facts About Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk is set to take the heavyweight division by storm. After conquering the cruiserweights, the undefeated Ukrainian plans to take over the heavyweight division. So, who is Oleksandr Usyk? Here are 5 must-know facts about the Ukrainian superstar ahead of his fight against Derek Chisora.

#1 Grew up in difficult circumstances

The Ukrainian was born on his idol Muhammad Ali’s birthday, but early life was tough. He had to work from a young age, even taking up jobs like grazing cattle, collecting fruit, and selling ice creams.

#2 Oleksandr Usyk: The footballer

Prior to finding his passion for boxing, Usyk loved playing football. He was even in an academy of former Ukrainian premier league side SC Tavriya Simferopol. However, at 15 years old, he had to give up the sport due to financial difficulties.

Before switching to boxing, the Ukrainian superstar even tried his hand at other sports like Wrestling, Karate, and others before finding his feet in boxing.

#3 Amateur King

Usyk has one of the most impressive amateur boxing records ever. The Ukrainian has 335 victories and only 15 losses. These 335 victories include Olympic Gold in 2012, World Championships gold medal in 2011, and many more prestigious honors.

#4 Following Vasyl Lomachenko’s footsteps

Oleksandr Usyk was a world champion in his tenth professional fight. The Ukrainian wasted no time in taking over the cruiserweight division after turning pro at 26 years of age. He won the WBO world cruiserweight title by beating Polish boxer, Krzysztof Glowacki, via unanimous decision.

#5 Multiple Gigs

Oleksandr Usyk is a fun-loving character outside the ring. The menacing southpaw has a role in the Ukrainian version of ‘The Stolen Princess.’ He did the voice for one of the characters in the movie. He also loves to dance and regularly displays his fantastic moves.

Despite having only one heavyweight contest under his belt, Oleksandr Usyk is ranked in the top five heavyweights of all the organizations. This shows how highly the authorities think of the Ukrainian.

If he is going to take over the heavyweight division, then his fight against Derek Chisora is crucial. Thus, he has to win and make a statement. The Ukrainian said he has plans of fighting the top heavyweights so keep your eyes peeled on these developments.