Introduction
Oleksandr Usyk is one of the greatest boxers of the modern era. The Ukrainian southpaw made history by becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion before moving up to heavyweight, where he defeated Anthony Joshua twice and then beat Tyson Fury to unify all four belts.
Known for his elite footwork, stamina, and adaptability, Usyk is unbeaten and widely ranked among the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. This article explores his life, career timeline, biggest fights, style, and legacy.
Who is Oleksandr Usyk?
• Full Name: Oleksandr Oleksandrovych Usyk
• Born: 17 January 1987
• Birthplace: Simferopol, Crimea (Ukraine)
• Nationality: Ukrainian
• Height: 6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
• Reach: 78 in (198 cm)
• Stance: Southpaw
• Weight Divisions: Cruiserweight (2013–2018), Heavyweight (2019–present)
With his speed, agility, and tactical mind, Usyk has become a symbol of resilience both inside and outside the ring.
Early Life and Amateur Career
Childhood and Beginnings
Raised in Crimea, Usyk initially played football but switched to boxing at 15. His background in sports gave him balance and athleticism that became key to his boxing style.
Amateur Achievements
Usyk compiled over 350 amateur fights, achieving global recognition:
• 2006 European Championships: Bronze medal
• 2008 European Championships: Gold medal
• 2009 World Championships: Bronze medal
• 2011 World Championships: Gold medal
• 2012 London Olympics: Won Olympic gold, defeating Clemente Russo in the heavyweight final
These achievements made Usyk one of Ukraine’s most successful amateur boxers, setting the stage for his professional dominance.
Professional Career Timeline
2013–2018: Cruiserweight Dominance
Rise to Champion
• 2013: Professional debut vs Felipe Romero (TKO).
• 2016: Won the WBO Cruiserweight Title against Krzysztof Głowacki in Poland.
• 2018: Entered the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS), defeating Mairis Briedis (WBC champ) and Murat Gassiev (IBF/WBA champ).
Becoming Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion
By July 2018, Usyk held the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO cruiserweight titles, becoming the undisputed champion.
• November 2018: Defended his titles by knocking out Tony Bellew in Manchester — his final fight at cruiserweight.
2019–Present: Heavyweight Success
Transition to Heavyweight
• 2019: Debuted at heavyweight, beating Chazz Witherspoon (TKO).
• 2020: Outpointed Derek Chisora, proving he could handle bigger opponents.
Anthony Joshua Fights
• September 2021 (London): Usyk defeated Joshua via unanimous decision, capturing the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO titles.
• August 2022 (Saudi Arabia): Rematch — Usyk again won, this time by split decision.
Tyson Fury Showdown
• May 2024 (Riyadh): Usyk faced Tyson Fury for the undisputed heavyweight championship.
• After a tactical and brutal fight, Usyk won by split decision, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era.
What’s Next?
A rematch with Fury is expected in late 2025, with speculation about potential retirement after completing his legacy.
Fighting Style and Strengths
• Footwork: Moves like a middleweight, circling opponents with angles.
• Ring IQ: Reads fights, adapts to different styles, and outthinks rivals.
• Stamina: Maintains relentless pace across 12 rounds.
• Defense: Uses head movement, tight guard, and evasive footwork.
• Southpaw Advantage: Creates awkward angles that frustrate orthodox opponents.
Career Statistics (as of 2025)
• Record: 22 fights – 22 wins, 0 losses
• Knockouts: 14
• Undisputed Cruiserweight Champion (2018)
• Unified Heavyweight Champion (2021–2024)
• Undisputed Heavyweight Champion (2024–present)
Public Image and Legacy
National Symbol
Amid Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, Usyk has become a national hero, often draped in the Ukrainian flag after fights.
Comparisons with Greats
• Compared with Evander Holyfield, the only other man to unify cruiserweight before dominating heavyweight.
• Seen as one of the greatest technicians in heavyweight history.
Philanthropy
Usyk donates portions of his purses to support Ukrainian humanitarian efforts, furthering his role as a public figure beyond sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is Oleksandr Usyk?
A Ukrainian boxer, Olympic gold medalist, former undisputed cruiserweight champion, and current undisputed heavyweight champion. - What is Usyk’s professional record?
As of 2025, Usyk is 22–0 (14 KOs). - Who did Usyk beat to become undisputed heavyweight champion?
He defeated Tyson Fury in May 2024. - Has Usyk ever lost a professional fight?
No, he remains undefeated. - What belts does Usyk hold?
The WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles. - How tall is Oleksandr Usyk?
He is 6 ft 3 in (191 cm) tall with a 78-inch (198 cm) reach. - What’s next for Usyk?
A Fury rematch in late 2025 is widely expected.
Conclusion
Oleksandr Usyk’s career is a story of dominance, adaptability, and history-making achievements. From winning Olympic gold in 2012, to becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion in 2018, and finally conquering heavyweight with victories over Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, Usyk’s journey is unmatched.
He is already one of boxing’s greatest, and with a possible Fury rematch ahead, his legacy could yet grow stronger. For fans and historians alike, Usyk’s place in the pantheon of boxing legends is secure.
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