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In the tranquil Spanish coastal town of Gandia, far from the echoes of bombs and sirens, Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is preparing for his next monumental fight. Though Gandia may appear to be just another quiet tourist haven, its resemblance to southern Crimea has made it a fitting stand-in for home during these crucial weeks of training. Usyk, however, has more than a championship on his mind. His heart remains tethered to Kyiv, where part of his family resides amid the constant threat of Russian bombardment.
The gym Usyk trains in has been transformed into a vivid homage to his homeland. The walls, painted in the iconic yellow and blue of the Ukrainian flag, reflect a deep-rooted patriotism. Flags, emblems, and war-time memorabilia serve not just as decoration but as a reminder of the battle far more significant than anything fought in a ring. Despite having his two sons with him at camp, Usyk admits it is difficult to concentrate when his wife and daughters remain behind. Yet he draws strength from the Ukrainian soldiers defending his home and maintains close contact with them, receiving real-time updates from the frontlines.
Usyk himself served in Ukraine's Territorial Defense Forces following Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion. This connection keeps him informed and emotionally tied to the ongoing conflict. Even while in training, he receives news—both grim and triumphant. He beams with pride as he praises Ukraine's daring drone strikes and acknowledges leaders like Vasyl Malyuk of the Security Services, extending personal messages of gratitude.
The war has been more than just a backdrop to Usyk's career; it has been a driving force. Since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, the fight for sovereignty has become part of Usyk's own narrative. Through social media, he uses his influence to advocate for Ukraine and fundraise for military and humanitarian efforts. He has even extended an invitation to Donald Trump, urging the former U.S. president to witness the harsh realities of Ukrainian life under siege.
As he prepares to face Britain's Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium on July 19, Usyk remains undefeated, with a flawless 23-0 record. Fourteen of those victories came by knockout. He radiates confidence, declaring himself "100,000,000%" sure of success. His focus, he says, is unshakable when it matters most, knowing that each win brings him closer not only to another title but also to the greater fight of restoring peace to Ukraine.
