Anthony Joshua has touched down in Ukraine for the very first time, with former rival Oleksandr Usyk welcoming him at the airport in Kyiv.
The British heavyweight was visibly thrilled upon arrival, declaring: "Ukraine! For the first time in my life."
Usyk, the reigning world heavyweight champion, responded warmly whilst sporting a Stone Island jacket and beige cap: "It's good. I show you, I show you Kyiv."
Joshua enthusiastically replied: "Let's go! We go to see Kyiv."
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The 39-year-old Ukrainian shared footage of their reunion on social media, writing he was "already planning a little tour around the city" and was "excited to show some of my favorite spots."
Following their airport meeting, Usyk wasted no time in guiding his former opponent through the Ukrainian capital, sharing his most cherished locations around the city.
The pair later posted a photograph together, with Usyk captioning it simply: "Welcome to Ukraine."
Their cultural immersion extended to experiencing traditional Ukrainian music, with both heavyweight fighters captured clapping along as a group of performers entertained them – three women singing whilst two men played instruments.
Anthony Joshua has touched down in Ukraine for the very first time
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Usyk shared this moment with his followers, proudly noting they were "fully immersed in Ukrainian culture".
The visit marks a remarkable display of camaraderie between two fighters who have previously met twice in the ring.
The two boxing stars have travelled to the war-torn capital for Saturday's Rising Stars professional boxing night, an event organised by Usyk's promotional company.
Headlining the card is Ukrainian fighter Daniel Lapin, 28, who will face Kristaps Bulmeistars in what amounts to a homecoming bout despite Kyiv remaining a conflict zone.
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The British heavyweight was visibly thrilled upon arrival
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Lapin last competed at Wembley Stadium during the summer, where he defeated Englishman Lewis Edmondson on the undercard of Usyk's rematch victory over Daniel Dubois.
Both Usyk and Joshua are expected to watch proceedings from ringside as emerging talent takes centre stage at the event.
Usyk acknowledged the challenge of balancing his promotional duties with his own fight preparations.
He noted on Instagram he could not miss such an occasion "even with training in full swing and my preparation for the May fight ramping up."
Anthony Joshua has failed to beat Oleksandr Usyk twice during his career | GETTYThe undisputed heavyweight champion described the Rising Stars event as a platform "where new names rise and their big journey begins."
He predicted it would be "loud," "electric" and "definitely unforgettable".
Following his hosting duties in Kyiv, Usyk will return his focus to his forthcoming bout against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven.
The fight is scheduled for May 23 in Egypt.
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