“Ukrainians Motivate Me.” Usyk on the Source of His Strength

When asked what keeps him going after achieving nearly everything — championship belts, titles, and global recognition — Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs), the unified WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO Heavyweight Champion, made it clear that his drive comes from something deeper than accolades.

“My motivation comes from my people — those who defend my country every day.Who protect me and my family every single day.

The Ukrainian soldier. The Ukrainian mother. The Ukrainian father.

Just Ukrainian people — they are my motivation. My team, which works every day, every night, every morning, nonstop. There are people who inspire me. I inspire myself.

Not money. Yes, money is good. But if you don’t work hard, if you don’t put in the effort — you won’t have the money. First and foremost, it’s your work,” Usyk said.

Earlier, Usyk spoke about his eventual retirement, the number of fights he might have left, and his dream of a farewell bout at NSC Olimpiyskiy in Kyiv.

He is set to face Daniel Dubois on July 19 at Wembley Stadium in London, UK, in a bout for the undisputed heavyweight championship.