Oleksandr Usyk, a name synonymous with excellence in the world of boxing, is not only a two-time world champion but also a devoted family man. Hailing from Ukraine, Usyk has captured titles in two weight classes: the unified WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles, as well as the undisputed cruiserweight title. As he prepares to defend his heavyweight titles against former champion Anthony Joshua in a highly anticipated rematch, we take a closer look at his family, specifically his three children—Yelizaveta, Kyrylo, and Mykhailo Usyk.
The Man Behind the Champion
Before diving into Usyk’s role as a father, it’s essential to understand the man himself. Born on January 17, 1987, in Simferopol, Crimea, Usyk has had a remarkable journey, from playing football in his youth to becoming a world-renowned boxer. His parents, both from northern Ukraine, played a crucial role in shaping his character. His father served as a military officer in Afghanistan and later worked as a security guard, while his mother was employed in construction. The values instilled in him from a young age have contributed to his discipline and determination inside the ring.
Usyk’s journey in boxing began at the age of 15, and he later attended the Lviv State University of Physical Culture. His rise to fame was not just marked by victories; it was also shaped by the strong foundation of family values he received from his parents.
A Private Life: Oleksandr and Yekaterina Usyk
Oleksandr Usyk is married to Yekaterina Usyk, a union that has lasted since 2009. Despite being married to a world champion, Yekaterina leads a remarkably private life. She rarely appears on social media, which adds an air of mystery to her persona. This choice reflects a desire to keep their family life shielded from the public eye, allowing their children to grow up away from the constant spotlight.
Together, Oleksandr and Yekaterina have three children: Yelizaveta, born in 2010; Kyrylo, born in 2013; and Mykhailo, born in 2015. The family currently resides in Kyiv, Ukraine, where they navigate life together amidst the challenges presented by the ongoing conflict in their homeland.
The Usyk Children: Growing Up in a Tumultuous Time
The Usyk children are still in their formative years, with Yelizaveta being 12, Kyrylo 9, and Mykhailo just 8 years old. Although they are the offspring of a global sports icon, the children have enjoyed a relatively normal upbringing, which is a testament to their parents’ commitment to providing a stable environment despite the pressures that come with fame.
Given the political turmoil in Ukraine, Usyk has made the conscious decision to keep his children’s images off social media. For security reasons, he prioritizes their safety and privacy over public exposure, which reflects his protective instincts as a father.
A Family Torn Apart: The Impact of the Russia-Ukraine War
The Russia-Ukraine war has dramatically affected the Usyk family. In the early days of the invasion, Oleksandr, Yekaterina, and their children were forced to leave their home in Vorzel, Bucha, as Russian soldiers took control of the area. The fear and uncertainty that came with such a displacement were palpable, and Usyk has openly discussed the questions his children posed during this traumatic time.
“My children are asking: ‘Daddy, why do they want to kill us?’” Usyk recalled, highlighting the emotional burden the conflict has placed on his family. Although they were able to escape unharmed, they lost many cherished belongings and faced the heart-wrenching reality of their friends and family remaining in a war-torn country.
Despite these challenges, Usyk maintains a strong connection with his homeland, expressing his desire to return once the situation stabilizes. His commitment to Ukraine is evident, as he remains in touch with friends and family, seeking updates on the situation in the country he loves.
Answering the Call of Duty: A Boxer Becomes a Soldier
In a profound display of patriotism, Usyk made the decision to join the Ukrainian army as the conflict escalated. Prioritizing his country’s needs over his boxing career, he stated, “I really don’t know when I’m going to be stepping back in the ring. My country and my honour are more important to me than a championship belt.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Oleksandr Usyk—not just as a champion in the ring but as a true hero for his people.
The war took a toll on him physically and mentally; he lost weight and showed signs of distress, as revealed by his wife, Yekaterina. Despite the hardships, Usyk remains steadfast in his belief that fighting for his country is of utmost importance.
The Road Ahead: Boxing and Family
As Oleksandr Usyk prepares to face Anthony Joshua once again on August 20, 2022, the world watches not only for his performance in the ring but also for the resilience he has shown as a husband and father. Their rematch, which takes place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is not just a fight for titles but a continuation of Usyk’s journey as a champion.
In their previous bout, Usyk emerged victorious, claiming the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles, solidifying his status as the unified world heavyweight champion. This upcoming match is critical for his career, but even more so, it is a moment to inspire his children and show them the importance of perseverance and strength in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Oleksandr Usyk’s story is not just about boxing; it’s about family, resilience, and patriotism. As he faces the challenges of both his professional and personal life, Usyk exemplifies what it means to be a champion, not just in the ring, but in the hearts of his children and his country.
