Oleksandr Usyk has twice conquered the heavyweight division, yet one of boxing’s greatest modern champions was able to walk through New York this week without the level of attention many of the world’s biggest sporting icons would expect.
The unbeaten Ukrainian was filmed enjoying time in Manhattan with his wife ahead of his farewell fight, strolling through one of the world’s busiest cities with remarkably little fuss.
For a fighter who has beaten Anthony Joshua twice, Tyson Fury twice and become the first two-time undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era, the contrast was remarkable.
Oleksandr Usyk’s Quiet New York Walk
Usyk has already confirmed he will retire after one final “Last Dance” following his decision to vacate every heavyweight world title and leave the division behind.
When he walks away, the 38-year-old will leave behind one of the strongest heavyweight résumés of the modern era.
Yet despite everything he has achieved, Usyk was able to enjoy the Big Apple with little interruption.
That contrast says a lot about the current state of heavyweight boxing in the United States.
For decades, heavyweight champions such as Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson became household names across America.
Today’s heavyweight king comes from Ukraine and owns one of the finest heavyweight résumés of the modern era, yet his achievements have never generated the same mainstream profile in the United States.
Usyk’s Final Chapter
Usyk has already secured his place among the most accomplished heavyweights of his generation, regardless of how much attention follows him outside the ring.
With one final fight still to come, the Ukrainian has one last opportunity to add another memorable chapter before retirement.
The remarkable part is that a fighter who conquered the heavyweight division twice can still walk through one of the world’s biggest cities with little more than a passing glance.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
