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
Iranian authorities accuse protesters of setting fire to 350 mosques
According to the head of Iran's Foreign Ministry, the arson attacks on mosques indicate the organized and externally supported nature of the riots.
Romanian Patriarchate opposes prostitution legalization in country
The Church noted that Holy Scripture and Orthodox Tradition consistently testify to the incompatibility of prostitution with spiritual life.
Poroshenko calls to cancel elections and focus on "language and faith"
The former president stated that an election campaign is unacceptable until the end of the war and proposed focusing the state's efforts on ideological priorities.
SBU confirms use of UOC hierarchs as "prisoner exchange fund"
The Security Service stated that UOC clergy were involved in exchanges when returning citizens from Russian captivity.
Report: 2,000 Christians killed and 3,000 attacked worldwide over two years
The report mentions the situation of Christians in Ukraine: it records the destruction of churches and threats to religious freedom.
U.S. Congresswoman appeals to Vatican over UOC persecution
The legislator linked appeals to the Vatican with complaints about UOC persecution and stated that US taxpayers' money should not be directed to a government that persecutes Christians.