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Usyk’s compatriot Vasiliy Lomachenko, a former lightweight champion, similarly returned to Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion. The 34-year-old will remain in the country for the foreseeable future, instead of challenging George Kambosos Jr for the WBA, WBO and IBF belts. Brothers Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko – the latter of whom is mayor of Kyiv – have also been aiding their native Ukraine’s war effort. Both were heavyweight boxing champions before their respective retirements.

In outpointing Joshua, former undisputed cruiserweight champion Usyk handed the Briton the second loss of his professional career. In 2019, Joshua was stopped by Andy Ruiz Jr in a title fight in New York City’s Madison Square Garden, but “AJ” regained the belts in December of the same year with a decision win against Ruiz Jr in Saudi Arabia.

Usyk returned to his home country amid its invasion by Russia

Meanwhile, Usyk moved up to heavyweight in 2019, finishing Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds. The southpaw then outpointed Derek Chisora in 2020, before winning his contest with Joshua last September.

The victor of Joshua and Usyk’s rematch is expected to face Fury with all the major heavyweight titles on the line, unless the “Gypsy King” loses his WBC belt to fellow Briton Dillian Whyte in his next outing.

In December, the undefeated Fury was ordered to defend the gold against mandatory challenger and interim champion Whyte, whom he will face on 23 April at Wembley Stadium.

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