Oleksandr Usyk is a Ukrainian professional boxer who has achieved significant success in the sport.
He is widely recognized for holding multiple world championships in two weight classes, including the unified heavyweight titles since 2021 and the Ring magazine title since 2022.
Usyk was the first boxer in the cruiserweight division to hold all four major world titles simultaneously.
He is considered one of the greatest Ukrainian boxers and cruiserweights of all time, alongside Evander Holyfield.
Notable for his speed in achieving accomplishments, Usyk won his first world title in his tenth fight and became the undisputed champion of his weight class by his fifteenth fight.
As an amateur, he won gold medals at the 2011 World Championships and 2012 Olympics before turning professional in 2013.
Net worth | $15 million |
Profession | Boxer |
Date of birth | January 17, 1987 |
Nationality | Ukrainian |
Background and early life
Usyk was born on January 17, 1987, in Simferopol, Crimean Oblast, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union.
His parents are originally from northern Ukraine, with his mother hailing from the Chernihiv region.
Until 1999, Usyk lived in his mother’s homeland in the village of Rybotyn in the Chernihiv region.
Usyk’s early life involved playing soccer until the age of 15, being part of the academy for SC Tavriya Simferopol.
He began boxing in 2002 and studied at the Lviv State University of Physical Culture.
Usyk is married to Kateryna Usyk, and they have three children.
He is proud of his Crimean heritage and has never intended to change his citizenship from Ukraine to Russia.
In 2018, Usyk signed a multi-year promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, co-promoted by K2 Promotions, founded by Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko.
Net worth
Usyk has an estimated net worth of $15 million.
His significant earnings come from his successful boxing career, with his rematch against Anthony Joshua being a major contributor to his wealth.
Usyk fight purses have seen a substantial increase, with earnings exceeding $10 million for specific fights.
Additionally, he is endorsed by companies like BoxRaw and has a considerable social media following.
Furthermore, Usyk is involved in charitable endeavors through the Usyk Foundation, aiming to support Ukrainians affected by the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Technocom endorsement deal
Usyk’s partnership with Technocom, a leading mobile operator in Ukraine, underscores his status as one of Ukraine’s premier sports icons.
This collaboration has not only bolstered the brand’s reach but has also showcased Usyk’s affable side, endearing him further to his fanbase.
The commercials and promotional campaigns featuring Usyk have not only enhanced Technocom’s visibility but have also highlighted Usyk’s influence and popularity within Ukraine.
This strategic partnership with Technocom goes beyond a mere sponsorship deal, playing a crucial role in shaping Usyk’s image off the ring and providing financial support while boosting his global recognition.
Rival Boxing Gear partnership
Usyk’s partnership with Rival Boxing Gear is a significant collaboration that showcases his dedication to using top-tier boxing equipment.
This partnership was announced through various channels, including a YouTube video, where Usyk expressed his excitement about the collaboration.
The partnership involves Usyk sporting custom RFX-Guerrero Pro Fight gear from Rival Boxing Gear, highlighting the brand’s quality and performance in the boxing industry.
Additionally, Rival Boxing Gear UK is recognized as a top source for quality boxing equipment, emphasizing the credibility and reputation of the brand.
Usyk’s association with Rival Boxing Gear not only benefits him by providing high-quality gear but also enhances Rival’s visibility and credibility through its association with a prominent boxer like Usyk.
Venum collaboration
Usyk’s collaboration with Venum, a premier brand in combat sports equipment and apparel, is a strategic partnership that amplifies his global image.
By donning Venum boxing shorts, he aligns himself with a respected brand recognized worldwide.
This partnership not only enhances Usyk’s reputation but also showcases his commitment to quality and performance in his choice of attire.
Additionally, Usyk’s collaborations with local Ukrainian brands underscore his dedication to his roots and position as a national icon.
Beyond financial benefits, these sponsorships enable him to contribute meaningfully to charitable causes, further enhancing his standing within and outside the boxing community.
Oleksandr Usyk car collection
Usyk’s car collection includes a BMW M8 Gran Coupe, which is part of his impressive array of vehicles.
The BMW M8 Gran Coupe is a stunning coupe model that adds to the allure of his collection.
Additionally, Usyk has been seen acquiring new cars over time, with videos showcasing his interest in cars and his expanding collection.
The Usyk Foundation, a charitable organization he is involved with, has also purchased and equipped cars for various purposes, further reflecting Usyk’s engagement with vehicles beyond personal ownership.
Real estate
Usyk’s real estate and houses have been a topic of discussion due to the impact of the war in Ukraine.
His family home in Vorzel, near Bucha, was taken by Russian forces during the conflict.
Images shared by Usyk on his verified Instagram account showed the devastation caused to his house, which was broken into and destroyed by Russian soldiers.
Despite this, Usyk remained resilient, stating that he had people working on rebuilding the house to restore it to its former state.
The destruction of his home and the subsequent rebuilding efforts highlight the personal toll of the war on Usyk and his family.
Additionally, Usyk has been actively involved in supporting Ukraine during the conflict, showcasing his commitment to his homeland and its people amidst challenging circumstances.
Early career
Usyk began his boxing journey at the age of 15 in 2002 after a successful soccer career.
He quickly transitioned to boxing and excelled in the sport.
Usyk had a remarkable amateur career with a record of 335 wins and 15 defeats.
Notably, he won gold medals at the 2011 World Championships and the 2012 Olympics in the heavyweight division.
In 2013, at the age of 26, Usyk turned professional and signed with K2 Promotions, fighting in the cruiserweight division.
His early professional fights showcased his talent and determination, leading to significant victories that set the stage for his future success in the sport.
Breakthrough
Usyk’s breakthrough in his career came when he successfully unified the cruiserweight division by holding all four major world titles simultaneously.
This achievement marked a significant milestone in boxing history, showcasing Usyk’s exceptional skills and dominance in his weight class.
Additionally, his transition to the heavyweight division and subsequent victories further solidified his status as a top-tier boxer.
Usyk’s ability to adapt to new challenges and continue his winning streak demonstrates his versatility and determination in the sport.
His breakthrough moments have not only elevated his career but have also garnered him widespread recognition and respect within the boxing community.
Fighting style
Usyk’s fighting style is characterized by several key elements that contribute to his success in the ring.
Despite being right-handed, he adeptly uses the southpaw stance to his advantage, allowing him to throw a powerful jab with his strong hand and create unfamiliar angles for orthodox opponents.
Usyk keeps his lead hand in constant motion, using it to control distance, set up punches and deceive opponents.
By disguising his punches through continuous hand movement, he catches opponents off guard and limits their reaction time.
Usyk maintains a relentless barrage of punches, constantly probing for weaknesses in his opponent’s defense with dynamic punch combinations that switch between head and body shots.
His perpetual motion, coordination of head movement with footwork, high guard and slipping techniques make him a difficult target to hit, while his strategic pivots after slipping punches create angles for swift counterattacks.
This combination of strategic footwork, active lead hand control, dynamic punch combinations, fluid movement, defensive prowess and tactical pivots allows Usyk to outmaneuver opponents and maintain control of the fight tempo.
Notable fights
Some of Usyk’s most notable fights include;
Tony Bellew (November 2018): Usyk faced Bellew at Manchester Arena in England.
Despite a slow start, Usyk gained momentum in the middle rounds, ultimately stopping Bellew in the eighth round.
This fight marked the first time a champion defended and won an undisputed cruiserweight title fight, solidifying Usyk’s dominance in the division.
Anthony Joshua (September 2021): In a highly anticipated bout, Usyk faced Joshua in a heavyweight clash.
Usyk’s masterful performance led to a unanimous decision victory over Joshua, where he showcased his skills and power, proving his ability to compete at the highest level in the heavyweight division.
This win was a significant moment in Usyk’s career, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight category.
These fights exemplify Usyk’s talent, determination, and ability to overcome formidable opponents, solidifying his reputation as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Philanthropic efforts
Usyk has demonstrated significant philanthropic efforts through the establishment of the Usyk Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at aiding Ukraine.
The foundation focuses on charitable initiatives to support communities affected by various challenges, showcasing Usyk’s commitment to giving back.
Additionally, Usyk has partnered with organizations like the Ukrainian Food Banks Federation to provide essential support to families impacted by conflict.
His involvement in packing food kits and ongoing collaboration with food banks highlight his dedication to humanitarian causes and making a positive impact in society.
Family
Usyk’s family includes his wife, Yekaterina, and their three children.
They have been together for many years, with Yekaterina playing a significant role in supporting Usyk’s career and success.
The couple got married in 2009 and have three children: Kyrylo, Mykhalio, and Yelizaveta.
Yekaterina is known to keep her personal life private but is popular in Ukraine.
She runs the Usyk Foundation, a charitable organization aimed at helping Ukrainian forces and those affected by Russian aggression.
Despite the challenges they have faced, including fleeing their home due to the conflict in Ukraine, Usyk and his family remain resilient and supportive of each other.
Their bond and dedication to each other reflect a strong family unit that stands by each other through difficult times.