Oleksandr Usyk received an enormous cheer from the O2 Arena crowd on Saturday night. The heavyweight champion attended the event to watch his two former rivals, Joe Joyce and Derek Chisora, during his trip to the UK.

Usyk showed up to support Chisora, arriving at ringside midway through the fight night. As soon as he took his seat, he was shown on the live TV broadcast and big screens around the arena. The UK fans gave him a huge cheer, admiring the man who has beaten every top cruiserweight and heavyweight from their country to become the undisputed champion in both divisions. Usyk stood up and saluted the crowd respectfully.

Earlier in the week, Usyk visited the Ukrainian embassy in London, expressing his gratitude for the support and financial aid the UK government has provided to his country amid the ongoing war with Russia.

On Saturday, Usyk took some time to relax and enjoy the boxing event. He headed backstage to wish Chisora luck in his dressing room. Usyk and Chisora have maintained a friendship since their gruelling match in 2020, which was Usyk’s first serious test at heavyweight and prepared him for future victories against Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.

The pair have regularly reunited when Usyk is in the UK, and Chisora has congratulated Usyk on his achievements. Usyk has also fought Joyce in the past, emerging victorious in a semi-pro WSB tournament in 2013 before beginning his legendary professional career.

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The fans’ rapturous reception at the O2 Arena is a testament to Usyk’s impressive career and the respect he commands in the boxing world