Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

Sporting ExcitementSporting Excitement

Boxing

Oleksandr Usyk throws Anthony Joshua rematch in doubt by admitting Ukraine and ‘pride are more important than a belt’

, Oleksandr Usyk throws Anthony Joshua rematch in doubt by admitting Ukraine and ‘pride are more important than a belt’

OLEKSANDR USYK has cast huge doubts on his rematch with Anthony Joshua taking place amid Ukraine’s war with Russia.

The star defeated AJ back in September to become the WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO heavyweight champion.

Oleksandr Usyk is back in Ukraine on the frontline defending them against Russia’s invasion

The heavyweight champ has now cast doubt on his rematch with Anthony Joshua

The pair are contracted to an immediate rematch.

But the crisis in Ukraine leaves their second fight in doubt – although Joshua, 32, has sent his support to Usyk, 35.

It comes following the news Usyk has taken up arms in Ukraine’s desperate fight against Vladimir Putin’s Russia.

Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.

Now Usyk has revealed that defending his country is his main priority instead of focusing on his re-run with AJ.

He said: “I really don’t know when I’m going to be stepping back in the ring.

“My country and my pride are more important to me than a belt.”

Joshua told iFL TV: “I’ve learned sports and politics go hand in hand. They are powerful voices and it is good they are speaking up.

“They are not pushing for war, they are saying let’s find peace so good luck to them.”

Usyk has joined the Kyiv Territorial Defence and slung a machine gun over his giant shoulder.

He has joined best friend and Vasiliy Lomachenko and legendary boxing brothers Wladimir and Kyiv mayor Vitali in swapping gloves for guns.

Usyk flew into London last week to watch Chelsea beat Lille on Tuesday night and visit Sheffield on Wednesday.

Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.

He also met with Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn for talks on a date and venue for the heavyweight rematch.

But the fearless southpaw returned straight back into the warzone and posted a string of emotional videos to Putin and the invading Russian hordes, before finally arming himself on Monday.

The AJ rematch, which Hearn has been hoping to stage in late May or early June, now seems certain to be delayed.

, Oleksandr Usyk throws Anthony Joshua rematch in doubt by admitting Ukraine and ‘pride are more important than a belt’
Anthony Joshua was beaten by Oleksandr Usyk back in September

Advertisement
Advertisement

Latest

Premier League

Ozil's Gym Transformation Former Arsenal player Mesut Ozil, who retired at 34, has been hitting the gym hard, showcasing a significant body transformation and...

Premier League

Gareth Southgate Explains Palmer's Absence Gareth Southgate has shed light on why Cole Palmer didn't make an appearance in England's recent friendlies against Brazil...

Premier League

Former Football Stars Turned Coaches Cesc Fabregas has been predicted to join the ranks of successful managers like Mikel Arteta, Thierry Henry, and Patrick...

Premier League

Guardiola's Headache Manchester City is facing a massive injury crisis with seven key players at risk of missing the crucial showdown against Arsenal. Defensive...

Premier League

ARSENAL and West Ham are on the brink of securing an extra Champions League spot for English clubs in 2024-25 by potentially eliminating German...

Premier League

Sir Jim Ratcliffe making changes at Old Trafford Manchester United is gearing up for a major shake-up as Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the British billionaire...

Advertisement
Advertisement

Facebook

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement