- Team Usyk has launched a new social media challenge ahead of the rematch
- Usyk returns to the ring on December 21 to face Fury for the second time
- A Benfica footballer is one of many celebrities taking part in the challenge
As Oleksandr Usyk prepares to step back into the ring for one of the most anticipated rematches in boxing history against Tyson Fury, the Ukrainian superstar is not only rallying his team, but uniting the world.
A new social media challenge, ‘I’m Team Usyk’, organized by Ready To Fight, has become a global phenomenon, with famous faces from Ukraine rallying behind the undisputed heavyweight champion.
The challenge is simple but effective: record a video supporting Usyk, post it on social media with the hashtag #TeamUsyk and you could win an exclusive Ready To Fight T-shirt. But beyond the prizes, it’s the star-studded line-up of supporters that has attracted attention.
From Ukrainian Olympic champions Yaroslava Mahuchikh and Daria Bilodid to FC Benfica’s Anatoliy Trubin and even Hollywood actor Liev Schreiber, the campaign has attracted an eclectic mix of high-profile backers.
Usyk will be looking to beat Fury for a second time after stripping him of his WBC heavyweight title in May to become the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-cushion era.
Usyk’s journey to heavyweight superstardom is as unconventional as it is inspiring. A former cruiserweight king who tore through the division to claim undisputed status, Usyk carried his impeccable technique and ruthless work ethic to the heavyweight ranks.
Oleksandr Usyk’s supporters rally behind him as he prepares to step back into the ring for one of the most anticipated rematches in boxing history against Tyson Fury
The 37-year-old’s victory over Anthony Joshua in 2021 cemented his legacy, and his subsequent victory in the rematch proved it was no fluke, making him next in line to face the Gypsy King.
He will face Fury for the second time in Riyadh on December 23. This rematch follows their explosive first meeting earlier this year, where Usyk withstood Fury’s size and bravado to secure a razor-thin decision that sent shockwaves through the boxing world.
For Usyk, this fight is about more than just boxing; it’s about representing Ukraine on the world stage in turbulent times. It’s about proving that technique, intelligence and heart can overcome any challenge, even against a larger-than-life opponent like Fury.
What sets the ‘I’m Team Usyk’ challenge apart is its tone. In an era where trash talk often dominates fight promotions, Ready To Fight and Team Usyk are choosing a different path.
“At Ready To Fight, we understand better than anyone the importance of fan engagement,” said Sergey Lapin, director of Usyk’s team. “However, we avoid nonsense and other unsportsmanlike tactics.”
Lapin – who has known Usyk since they were children – added: “Oleksandr Usyk and his team embody values of solidarity, community and teamwork. This campaign is a reflection of those principles.”
The challenge reflects Usyk’s reputation as a fighter who thrives on respect and sportsmanship. His unorthodox training methods, signature humor and dedication to his craft have endeared him to fans around the world.
As the challenge deadline approaches, anticipation for the rematch reaches fever pitch. Will Fury, known for his larger-than-life personality and clumsy style, reclaim his throne? Or will Usyk’s cerebral approach and dogged determination secure another win?