Boxer Usyk prohibited from kissing a cross during fight with Fury
Oleksandr Usyk after his victory. Photo: Champion
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk, the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO world champion, was prohibited from kissing a cross gifted to him by a Greek monk during his rematch with Tyson Fury, Hromadske reports. The fight organizers explained the decision as a measure to prevent potential rule violations.
In a previous fight with Fury in May, which Usyk won, spectators noticed him bringing an object to his lips between rounds. This sparked rumors of him allegedly using an inhaler. The athlete denied these accusations, clarifying that he was kissing a cross, which he said gave him strength.
“This cross gives me strength and leads me to victory. I feel the love of God the Father from Paradise. I am a sinner, and I need help to overcome my sins,” Usyk told the British publication Mirror.
However, Tyson Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, stated that the Ukrainian champion would now be allowed only a water bottle, with any other item subject to inspection for rule violations. There was also speculation that the cross could contain a vial of stimulants, which led to the ban.
Following his victory, Usyk raised over his head the original saber of Ivan Mazepa. This historical artifact is adorned with an image of the Virgin Mary with the Child and the inscription: “I place all my hope in you, Mother of God, protect me under your mantle!”
As reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Luke remarked on Usyk, calling him a courageous boxer but a cowardly Christian.
Read also
Common Easter date with Orthodox still a long way off – Vatican rep
The Vatican’s ambassador to Ukraine said that dialogue on synchronizing the calendar is ongoing, but no tangible progress has been made.
Persecuted UOC сommunity сelebrates its patronal feast in Mali Dorohostai
In the Rivne Eparchy, the persecuted community of the Church of St. Spyridon of Trimythous marked its patronal feast.
Catholic monastery in Germany to open escape room for visitors
The Norbertines of Roggenburg have devised a way to attract visitors as the abbey prepares to celebrate its 900th anniversary.
Cherkasy court extends preventive measure against Metropolitan Theodosiy
The judge left unchanged the preventive measure imposed on the UOC hierarch in four criminal cases.
UOC parish in Lisbon celebrates 5th anniversary of its founding
The community of the Church of St. Spyridon of Trimythous in Lisbon marked its patronal feast and the fifth anniversary of its founding.
Pope says true Christians can have no enemies
Pope Leo XIV reflects on martyrdom as a “birth into heaven” and on Christmas joy a the choice of "justice even at great cost,” making celebration possible even amid suffering.