Oleksandr Usyk has the chance to become undisputed heavyweight champion when he faces Tyson Fury on February 17 and he’s revealed his motivation heading into the fight.
The unified champion has long sought a bout with Fury and he’s using his country to help get him over the line when the first bell goes later this month.
Usyk heads into the clash after beating Daniel Dubois last August, and although he’s considered an underdog going into the fight, many within boxing expect him to do well.
With his beloved Ukraine currently involved in a conflict after the Russian invasion, Usyk is fully aware of the situation in his homeland, and he’s admitted that he’s fighting for them.
“Every morning when I get up at five to run, the first thing I think about is my country and my people,” said Usyk when speaking to The Ring.
“I think about our people that are fighting on the front lines and the sacrifices they are making for me and my family. I am going right back to Ukraine after the fight. I love my people. I want to give them joy in winning. I am fighting for an entire nation. Tyson Fury fights for himself.”
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