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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has been released after being briefly detained at Krakow airport in Poland. A video circulating on social media showed Usyk in handcuffs, escorted by uniformed officials, prompting swift action from Ukrainian authorities.
Zelensky expressed his frustration over the incident, stating on Telegram, “I was outraged by this attitude towards our citizen and champion.” He immediately instructed Ukraine’s foreign and internal affairs ministers to investigate. After being informed that Usyk had been released, Zelensky confirmed that the situation had been resolved.
Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, described the situation as a “misunderstanding,” and the boxer echoed this sentiment on social media, thanking Ukrainian diplomats and the Polish police for their professionalism. Usyk added, “Thanks to all who got concerned.”
It remains unclear why Usyk was detained. The incident has drawn attention as the Ukrainian champion is expected to be in London to attend the IBF title defense of Daniel Dubois against Anthony Joshua at Wembley.
Usyk, who became the first undisputed four-belt heavyweight champion after defeating Tyson Fury in May, is scheduled for a rematch with Fury on December 21.
