Usyk on the Hitman Persona and Fury’s Autograph: “A Psychological Step”

Three-time undisputed world champion Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk spoke about how he came up with the Hitman style for the press conference dedicated to his rematch with Tyson Fury. At that time, he asked his opponent to sign a photo showing him hitting the Briton just before the knockdown in their first encounter—Fury agreed.

“I was preparing for my daily training. I’m standing at home. I think, ‘Hm, good idea. Maybe I’ll do a Hitman persona. Great.’ I go into my room and shave. I come down to my team: ‘Alex, what happened?’ I tell them: ‘Wait.’

We are preparing for the press conference. I buy a jacket, a red tie, and a briefcase. I prepare a T-shirt, gloves. I had two photos. One is for me; it’s in my collection. I sold the second one at an auction and helped the Ukrainian people.

But I thought it was a good idea if, at the press conference, I give him these photos and say, ‘Can you sign this?’ It’s like a psychological step. I opened the case and ask: ‘Can you?’ ‘Yes, I can.’ For me, it was a sign: ‘Okay, you are mine,’” Usyk said.

Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) has not boxed since knocking out Daniel Dubois in their rematch, a victory that made him a three-time undisputed champion. Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) announced his retirement after his loss to Usyk in the rematch. His return to the ring and a potential fight against Anthony Joshua are expected in 2026.