Yesterday, unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk was arrested at Krakow airport. The incredible images showing the famous Ukrainian athlete, handcuffed with his hands behind his back and escorted by airport police, have already gone viral, although it’s still unclear what led to the arrest.
Usyk, who has since been released, was at the airport to catch a flight to London, where this Saturday, the highly anticipated derby between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua will take place, with the IBF world title on the line. The belt was recently vacated by Usyk and immediately awarded to Dubois by the IBF.
One of the first people to make a public statement was Usyk’s wife, Kateryna, who reassured fans on social media with the following message:
“Everything is fine, everything is fine. Oleksandr will explain everything later. Nothing criminal, goodnight everyone.”
Shortly after, Usyk’s friend and manager Serge Lapin also commented, urging people not to worry and accusing Polish police of failing to perform their duties.
As mentioned earlier, Usyk is now free and has issued a brief message without revealing specific details of the incident:
“All is well my friends. There was a misunderstanding that was quickly resolved. Thank you to everyone who was worried. Thank you Ukrainian diplomats for your support. And respect to Polish law enforcers, who perform their duties despite height, weight, arm range and regalia.”
In the coming days, further details will likely emerge about this still-mysterious episode.