Oleksandr Usyk’s promoter Alexander Krassyuk revealed how the fighter prepared for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Usyk returned to his country in early 2022 when Russia began its war with Ukraine, and like other major figures, the boxer was ready to take up arms.
The Ukrainian has been pictured on the frontlines, and was also part of the territorial defence force, a section of the country’s armed forces.
Speaking to Sky Sports , Krassyuk described the situation in the country.
"He is Ukrainian, we are all Ukrainians. At the time the invasion started we all slept with machine guns," his promoter Krassyuk said.
"We didn't know what was going to happen in the morning. Maybe we would have to face the enemy at our door, the entrance door to our houses.
"So at that time we all did that and he was not an exception. Immediately the same day he [Usyk] took hold of his weapons and joined the forces in his region."
Usyk has been a public supporter of the Ukrainian armed forces, and a point of pride for the country, and because of that and his sporting success, he is popular figure.
"He is the diamond of Ukraine, he is the national hero of Ukraine, he is the so-called idol, the character who makes new generations follow his road. An icon," Krassyuk added.
"Not because he is a good fighter, because he is a charismatic personality, that's because [of] his principles of life.
"He is pushing some narratives, some very proper narratives that inspire people, that lead people to success, that lead people to a good life."
Usyk now fights Tyson Fury on Saturday, May 18, live on DAZN PPV .
The winner will become the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era.
Live on DAZN PPV: Fury vs. Usyk on May 18. Click here for details .