Usyk to pay Ukraine boxers Olympic prize money

2024-07-31

Olympian Usyk's Generous Pledge: Rewarding Ukrainian Boxers' Podium Triumphs

As the world's eyes turn to the Paris Olympics, Ukrainian boxers have an added incentive to excel on the global stage. Former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has pledged to personally reward his compatriots with substantial prize money if they can secure medals at the prestigious event.

Usyk's Unwavering Support: Fueling Ukrainian Boxers' Olympic Dreams

Usyk's Commitment to His Countrymen

Oleksandr Usyk, the renowned Ukrainian boxer and Olympic gold medalist, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting his fellow Ukrainian athletes as they compete on the world's biggest sporting stage. Usyk, who himself triumphed at the 2012 London Olympics, has pledged to personally provide financial incentives to any Ukrainian boxers who manage to secure a spot on the podium in Paris.

Ukraine's national boxing coach, Dmitry Sosnovsky, revealed the extent of Usyk's generosity, stating that the former heavyweight champion has been actively involved in supporting the Ukrainian boxers in various ways. "He helps our boxers a lot, in different ways. He supports them financially. He helps them with money," Sosnovsky told Reuters.

Usyk's pledge to his compatriots is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his desire to see Ukrainian athletes succeed on the global stage. The former champion has promised to personally provide substantial cash prizes to any Ukrainian boxers who manage to win medals in Paris, with the top prize being ,000 for a gold medal, ,000 for silver, and ,000 for bronze.

Usyk's Presence and Inspiration

Usyk's support for the Ukrainian boxers extends beyond just financial assistance. The former champion has also made a point of being present at the Olympic events, offering words of encouragement and advice to the athletes as they prepare for their bouts.

Sosnovsky recounted Usyk's visit to the North Paris Arena, where he went to the dressing room of super heavyweight boxer Dmytro Lovchynskyi before his fight against Australian Teremoana Junior. "He was here on Monday and he went to the dressing room, before the fight, he went to say that everything will be okay," Sosnovsky said, highlighting Usyk's personal investment in the success of his fellow Ukrainians.

Usyk's presence and words of wisdom have been invaluable in inspiring the Ukrainian boxers as they strive to make their nation proud. The former champion's unwavering support and belief in their abilities have undoubtedly provided a significant morale boost to the athletes as they compete on the world's biggest stage.

Additional Prize Money from the IBA

While Usyk's personal pledge is a significant incentive for the Ukrainian boxers, they will also be eligible for additional prize money from the International Boxing Association (IBA). The IBA has announced that it will be awarding substantial cash prizes to the medalists in the boxing competition, with 0,000 going to gold medalists, ,000 for silver, and ,000 for bronze.

This additional financial support, combined with Usyk's generous pledge, has created a powerful motivation for the Ukrainian boxers to strive for the podium. The opportunity to not only represent their country with pride but also secure significant financial rewards has undoubtedly fueled their determination and drive to succeed at the Paris Olympics.

As the world watches the boxing events unfold in Paris, the Ukrainian boxers will undoubtedly be carrying the weight of their nation's hopes and Usyk's unwavering support on their shoulders. With the promise of substantial financial rewards and the inspiration provided by their former champion, these athletes are poised to make a lasting impact on the Olympic stage.

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