Derek Chisora has claimed that Oleksandr Usyk's remarkable boxing achievements have become a burden rather than a blessing due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The British heavyweight, who developed an unexpected friendship with the Ukrainian champion following their 2020 bout, shared his perspective on the Split Decision YouTube programme.
According to Chisora, the two-weight undisputed champion's wealth and success cannot be enjoyed whilst his homeland remains under Russian assault.
The 41-year-old Londoner maintains regular contact with Usyk, during which he can hear the sounds of missiles and rockets in the background of their conversations.
Reuters
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Chisora explained the impossible situation facing the 38-year-old champion: "He has made so much money but he can't enjoy it because his country is at war."
“He can’t go around driving a Lamborghini while his friends are having their houses destroyed and they are dying. He is cursed.
“He can’t go on holiday in St Tropez and sunbathe and drink tequila because his friends are in the trenches.
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“He can’t enjoy his money. He can’t because he is all Ukraine has right now."
The conflict has become a driving force behind Usyk's extraordinary performances in the ring.
Since Russia's 2022 invasion, the southpaw has systematically defeated Britain's finest heavyweights, including victories over Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and most recently Daniel Dubois at Wembley.
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Chisora believes the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine has motivated the champion beyond conventional sporting ambition.
"The population is going down because so many people, young men, are dying," he said. "It's so difficult for him but it's also why he is so dedicated, he is doing it for his whole nation."
The British fighter added that Usyk's path appears predestined: "If it's your destiny then it's your destiny. If God says it's your path then nothing will take you away from it."
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Reuters | Oleksandr Usyk became the undisputed champion again after his crushing victoryDespite the personal toll, Chisora firmly places Usyk amongst boxing's elite.
"Usyk is 100 per cent a top-10 heavyweight and he is in my top-five," he declared.
The British fighter listed the Ukrainian's extraordinary achievements: European amateur champion, Olympic gold medallist, undisputed cruiserweight world champion and twice undisputed heavyweight champion.
Chisora questioned what more could be accomplished, stating: "What more else can he do? He has whooped us all. He has taken the p***!"
The 41-year-old's assessment underscores how Usyk has dominated the division whilst carrying the weight of his nation's suffering, creating a legacy defined by both sporting excellence and personal sacrifice.