Zelenskiy salutes champion Usyk’s resilience in his triumph over Fury

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy praised Oleksandr Usyk’s victory over Tyson Fury in Riyadh, stating that the boxer epitomized the fighting character of Ukrainians and successfully defended the WBA (Super), WBO, and WBC world heavyweight titles.

The British two-time world champion was defeated by undefeated Usyk in the rematch by unanimous decision, earning him his second professional loss. Usyk had previously captured Fury’s WBC title in their initial encounter in May.

Achievement and triumph! Zelenskiy, who has been the leader of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia since Moscow invaded its neighbor in 2022, wrote on X, “So important and so needed by all of us right now.”

By defending his championship title, Oleksandr Usyk demonstrates that we are Ukrainians and will not relinquish our rights. Whatever the challenge, we will prevail.

Regardless of whether it is in the ring, on the battlefield, or in the diplomatic arena, we will fight and refuse to relinquish what is ours. In celebration of your triumph, Cossack! “Ukraine, congratulations on your achievements!”

Wladimir Klitschko, a former world champion who enlisted in the Ukrainian military reserves prior to Russia’s invasion, was present at the Kingdom Arena to witness Usyk’s victorious performance.

“You are a true asset to Ukraine.” Klitschko wrote on X, “You are a genuine embodiment of our fortitude–glory to Ukraine.”