The well-known American journalist Mike Coppinger, famous for his numerous sources, seems to have clarified the “Usyk case,” at least in broad terms. The heavyweight world champion had been filmed in handcuffs while Polish officers took him into custody at Krakow airport, causing great concern among boxing fans.
The case quickly gained international attention, even prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to activate diplomatic channels to seek clarification on the matter and demand assurances of fair treatment for the great champion.
The initial statements from those closest to Usyk, including his wife Kateryna, were not enough to clarify the situation, as they only mentioned a misunderstanding and reassured fans without providing a thorough explanation of what had happened. Usyk’s first words, once he was released, also remained vague.
However, yesterday an article published on ESPN.com by Mike Coppinger provided more details on the incident. The journalist, based on information from an informed source, explained that Oleksandr Usyk and team member Sergey Lapin were deemed unfit to fly by airport staff.
Usyk reportedly protested vehemently, claiming he was just exhausted after the nearly 900-kilometer drive from Kyiv to Krakow. His refusal to accept the decision of the screening staff led to the police’s intervention and the temporary custody of the boxer.
The “Usyk case” is now clarified. With everything seemingly resolved, the Ukrainian will be able to attend this Saturday’s event at Wembley to watch the fight between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua. Ringside will also feature his rival and future opponent, Tyson Fury.