In a sport where the word “legend” is often used lightly, Oleksandr Usyk, in my view, stands out as one of the rare few who truly deserve the title.
His journey, both as an amateur and a professional, is a testament to discipline, courage, pure talent, and an extraordinary commitment to excellence.
Usyk began with an exceptional amateur background: world champion, Olympic gold medalist in London 2012, always facing the global elite. But it’s in the professional ranks that he raised the bar to a rarely seen level. He became the undisputed cruiserweight champion by defeating every titleholder—on their home turf: Glowacki in Poland, Briedis in Latvia, Gassiev in Russia. This achievement speaks volumes about both his technical mastery and mental strength.
Photo: Stone Island / IG – Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk
Then, he moved up to the heavyweight division—a gamble many thought was too ambitious—and yet, he went on to write a new chapter in boxing history. He defeated Anthony Joshua twice, with remarkable tactical and physical superiority. And more recently, he did what no one else had managed to do: beat Tyson Fury twice, including once to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era. This places him in a league of his own: among the rare fighters who have dominated every division they’ve entered, against the best, at the most critical moments.
Photo: Stone Island / IG – Russ Anber and Oleksandr Usyk
He and his compatriot Vasiliy Lomachenko have redefined the meaning of “hard work.” They are training machines, obsessive students of the sweet science, but also men of great humility. Champions inside and outside the ring. Their approach to the sport—professional, respectful, and rigorous—should serve as a model.
Usyk is more than a champion. He is a phenomenon. A man who combines technique, ring IQ, courage, creativity, and an iron will. He never sought the spotlight; he earned it. He never ran from adversity; he embraced it. And he never disrespected the sport—in fact, he honored it.
For all these reasons, I consider Oleksandr Usyk not only one of the greatest of his era, but one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Photo: Sky News – Oleksandr Usyk
