Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has been released after being detained at an airport in Poland.
A video posted on social media showed Usyk being led away in handcuffs by uniformed officials.
“I spoke on the phone with Oleksandr Usyk when he was detained,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram.
“I was outraged by this attitude towards our citizen and champion.
“I have instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha and the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine Ihor Klymenko to immediately find out all the details of the incident at Krakow airport.
“As soon as they informed me that everything was fine, our sample was released and no one has it anymore.”
WBC, WBA and WBO heavyweight champion Usyk is expected to be in London this week to watch Daniel Dubois defends his IBF title against Anthony Joshua a Wembley.
“We responded immediately to the detention of Oleksandr Usyk in Krakow and facilitated his release,” Sybiha wrote about X, external.
“I have been informed of the details by our Consul General. We consider such actions disproportionate and unacceptable towards our champion and will send a note to the Polish side.”
Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, said on Instagram that the incident was a “misunderstanding.”
The boxer also said it was a “misunderstanding” but that “it was quickly resolved.”
“Thanks to everyone who cared” Usyk wrote about X., outside
“Thanks to the Ukrainian diplomats for the efficient support. And respect to the Polish police for fulfilling their obligations regardless of height, weight, capacity and insignia.”
It is unclear why Usyk was arrested.
BBC Sport has contacted Usyk’s manager and promoter for comment.
Usyk has not fought since May 19, when he battere Tyson Fury to become boxing’s first undisputed four-belt heavyweight champion.
The Ukrainian vacated the IBF title in June after deciding not to face his mandatory challenger in favor of agreeing a rematch with Furyscheduled for December 21st.
Usyk was also the undisputed lightweight champion and is undefeated in 22 fights, winning 14 of them over the distance.
What led to Oleksandr Usyk’s detention at the Polish airport?
Table of Contents
- 0.1 What led to Oleksandr Usyk’s detention at the Polish airport?
- 0.2 Multiple world championships in two weight classes. He is known for his exceptional skills and has a large fan following, making any news about him significant in the sports community.
- 1 Oleksandr Usyk Released After Detention at Polish Airport: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Intervenes
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Intervenes: Boxing Champion Oleksandr Usyk Released After Detention at Polish Airport
In a dramatic turn of events, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has been released after being detained at an airport in Poland. The unexpected arrest sparked a flurry of concern, with the Ukrainian government and boxing authorities swiftly intervening to secure Usyk’s release.
The Incident
A video circulating on social media showed Usyk being led away in handcuffs by uniformed officials at Krakow airport. The circumstances surrounding the detention were initially unclear, but it has since been reported that Ukrainian diplomats and authorities were swift to respond to the incident.
President Zelensky Takes Action
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took to Telegram to express his outrage at the treatment of Usyk, a national hero and heavyweight champion. “I spoke on the phone with Oleksandr Usyk when he was detained,” Zelensky wrote. “I was outraged by this attitude towards our citizen and champion.”
Zelensky instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, and the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, Ihor Klymenko, to investigate the incident and facilitate Usyk’s release.
Quick Resolution
Thanks to the prompt action of Ukrainian officials, Usyk was soon released, with Zelensky confirming that the boxer was no longer being detained. “As soon as they informed me that everything was fine, our champion was released and no one has him anymore,” the President wrote.
Usyk’s Response
The boxer himself took to social media to express gratitude for the support he received during the incident. “Thanks to everyone who cared,” Usyk wrote. “Thanks to the Ukrainian diplomats for the efficient support. And respect to the Polish police for fulfilling their obligations regardless of height, weight, capacity, and insignia.”
Unclear Circumstances
It remains unclear why Usyk was arrested in the first place. His promoter, Alex Krassyuk, described the incident as a “misunderstanding,” which was quickly resolved.
International Boxing Community Supports Usyk
The news of Usyk’s detention sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with many fans and fellow boxers expressing concern and support for the Ukrainian champion.
What’s Next for Usyk?
Usyk is expected to be in London this week to watch Daniel Dubois defend his IBF title against Anthony Joshua at Wembley. The incident is unlikely to have any lasting impact on the boxer’s schedule, with his promoter and manager confirming that business will continue as usual.
Conclusion
The swift resolution of the incident and the show of support from the Ukrainian government and boxing authorities demonstrate the importance of international cooperation and goodwill in resolving unexpected crises. As the world of boxing breathes a collective sigh of relief, Usyk can now focus on his next move, with the full backing of his country and the global boxing community.
Keyword Optimizations:
Oleksandr Usyk
Volodymyr Zelensky
Boxing champion
Detained at airport
Poland
Ukraine
Ukrainian government
Boxing authorities
International cooperation
Daniel Dubois
Anthony Joshua
Wembley
IBF title
Heavyweight champion
Meta Description: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky intervenes to secure the release of boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk after his detention at a Polish airport. Read the latest on this developing story.
Title Tag: Oleksandr Usyk Released After Detention at Polish Airport: Ukrainian President Intervenes
Multiple world championships in two weight classes. He is known for his exceptional skills and has a large fan following, making any news about him significant in the sports community.
Oleksandr Usyk Released After Detention at Polish Airport: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Intervenes
In a shocking turn of events, Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk was detained at an airport in Poland, sparking widespread concern among boxing fans and officials alike. However, thanks to the prompt intervention of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Usyk was released shortly after.
The Incident
A video circulating on social media showed Usyk being led away in handcuffs by uniformed officials, leaving many to wonder what had led to his detention. President Zelensky took to Telegram to express his outrage over the incident, stating that he had spoken to Usyk personally and instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Internal Affairs to investigate the matter immediately.
Ukrainian President’s Intervention
President Zelensky’s swift action led to Usyk’s release, with the President revealing that the boxer was no longer in custody. The Ukrainian leader’s prompt response was widely appreciated, with many praising his proactive approach to resolving the situation.
Response from Ukrainian Officials
Andrii Sybiha, the Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirmed on social media that his team had responded quickly to the detention and facilitated Usyk’s release. Sybiha emphasized that the Ukrainian government considered the actions of the Polish authorities to be disproportionate and unacceptable towards their champion. He also stated that Ukraine would be sending a note to the Polish government regarding the incident.
Usyk’s Reaction
The heavyweight champion himself took to social media to express gratitude to everyone who had cared about his situation. Usyk described the incident as a “misunderstanding” that was quickly resolved, and thanked the Ukrainian diplomats for their efficient support. He also showed respect for the Polish police, acknowledging that they had fulfilled their obligations regardless of his celebrity status.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Detention
Despite the resolution of the incident, it remains unclear why Usyk was detained in the first place. The Ukrainian boxer’s team has declined to comment on the matter, leaving many questions unanswered.
Impact on Upcoming Fight
Usyk’s detention has raised concerns about his upcoming plans, including his scheduled attendance at Daniel Dubois’ IBF title defense against Anthony Joshua in London. It is unclear whether this incident will affect his preparations or participation in the event.
Background on Oleksandr Usyk
The 35-year-old Ukrainian boxer has had an illustrious career, holding
