Oleksandr Usyk is celebrated as one of boxing’s heavyweight legends, with a decorated amateur career that includes an Olympic gold medal at the 2012 London Games. As a professional, he’s been a force in the ring, reigning as the undisputed cruiserweight champion before ascending to the heavyweight ranks, where he currently holds multiple titles.
The 37-year-old Ukrainian boxer is set for a historic showdown against Tyson Fury, the undefeated WBC and lineal heavyweight champion, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 18, 2024. This battle will determine boxing’s first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis held the title over two decades ago.
A distinctive part of Usyk’s fight night ritual is his entrance music. For some of his most significant bouts, including his clashes with Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, Usyk has walked out to the song “Brothers” by Ukrainian artist Vasyl Zhadan. This anthem reflects Usyk’s deep pride in his heritage and sets a tone of national unity as he steps into the ring.
In September 2021, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, Usyk challenged Joshua for the WBA (Super), WBO, IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles. Accompanied by “Brothers,” he made a memorable entrance wearing a space-themed outfit and an astronaut mask. Usyk’s performance that night was equally stellar, as he secured a victory over Joshua via unanimous decision, claiming multiple heavyweight titles.
Their rematch in August 2022 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was another pivotal moment for Usyk. Once again, he walked out to “Brothers,” signaling his readiness for the high-stakes battle ahead. Despite a closely contested bout, Usyk emerged victorious, this time via split decision, further solidifying his dominance in the heavyweight division.
Usyk’s next defense came against Daniel Dubois in Wroclaw, Poland, in August 2023. For this event, Vasyl Zhadan performed “Brothers” live, adding an electrifying touch to Usyk’s entrance. The fight itself was challenging, with controversy surrounding a low blow incident, but Usyk ultimately triumphed with a ninth-round knockout, maintaining his hold on the heavyweight titles.
As Usyk prepares for the ultimate clash against Fury, it’s anticipated that “Brothers” will once again accompany him into the ring, serving as a powerful anthem that embodies his journey and the spirit of his nation. With a legacy already cemented in boxing history, Usyk aims to add another chapter by unifying the heavyweight division and etching his name alongside the sport’s all-time greats.
