In a revealing conversation with Mario Lopez this October, unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk shared insights into his diverse martial arts training regimen, which extends far beyond traditional boxing.
The Ukrainian champion, known for his exceptional footwork and fluid movement in the ring, explained how he incorporates various combat sports into his training routine to enhance his boxing prowess.
“It’s good. Our wrestling, our jiu-jitsu, Judo, sambo. Good mechanic. Your right hips. It’s good punch. Turn it over,” Usyk explained to Lopez, emphasizing how these disciplines contribute to his overall performance.
The champion’s holistic approach to combat sports training sets him apart from many of his peers. “Because a lot of people have only hands. I’m playing Judo, Kickboxing,” he added, highlighting the advantage of his multi-disciplinary background.
This comprehensive training philosophy has proven successful for Usyk, who remains undefeated in his professional boxing career. His mastery of various martial arts has contributed to his unique style, combining exceptional footwork with precise striking ability.
Usyk praises son’s judo achievements and jokes they promised to take him down
Oleksandr Usyk revealed a heartwarming moment with his sons following his victory over Tyson Fury in their heavyweight championship rematch in Saudi Arabia.
The Ukrainian champion shared that his sons had achieved success in their own sporting endeavors on the same day as his second bout with Tyson Fury, with both boys winning judo competitions. His sons secured new belt rankings, with one earning an orange belt and the other advancing to green belt level.
“Today my boys win competition. [One son] take orange belt, [the other] take green belt,” Usyk said during the press conference. He then shared a touching conversation with his sons, who playfully challenged their champion father: “Hey papa, you next!”
Usyk joked that he responded to their challenge by successfully claiming two belts of his own – winning both the WBC and Ring Magazine heavyweight titles in his victory over Fury.
The moment highlighted the close family bond of the Ukrainian champion, who also mentioned during the press conference his desire to return home to spend time with his family, including his 10-and-a-half-month-old daughter Maria.
After his historic victory, Usyk expressed his intention to take some time away from boxing to rest and enjoy family life, stating “Now I want to back home, rest… and play with my children.”
