‘That’s how I will help my country’ – Oleksandr Usyk confirms plans for Anthony Joshua rematch after leaving Ukraine

Oleksandr Usyk has confirmed he is now preparing for his heavyweight title showdown with Anthony Joshua – believing he can do more for Ukraine in the boxing ring than on the battlefield.

The reigning IBF, WBO and WBA heavyweight champion returned to Ukraine in late February to help defend his country following the Russian invasion.

Usyk joined the Kyiv defence battalion, putting his proposed rematch with Joshua in doubt.

But the 35-year-old has now left his homeland, confirming preparations are underway for the rematch which is expected to take place in June.

‘I’ve decided to start preparing for a rematch with Anthony Joshua,” Usyk said in a 42-second video shared on Instagram.

‘That’s how I will help my country more and it’s better than being in territorial defence and running around Kyiv with a machine gun.

‘Dear friends, many of my friends and close ones called me and supported me in this. Haters, I wish you well and wish you happiness, joy and peace.

‘Everything will be with God’s blessing. Everything will be Ukraine. Wishing everyone well.’

Usyk’s close friend and countryman Vasiliy Lomachenko meanwhile has decided to remain in Ukraine, withdrawing from his summer title fight against George Kambosos Jr in Australia.

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From the world of MMA, Bellator welterweight champion Yaroslav Amosov is another to have taken up arms and decided to remain in Ukraine.

The 28-year-old this week withdrew from his headline fight at Bellator London in May against Michael ‘Venom’ Page.

Amosov was recently pictured alongside