Oleksandr Usyk shows true colours by admitting one fighter is better than him
The Ukrainian is widely regarded as one of the best fighters of his generation - but has surprisingly named the one fighter who is currently better than him
Oleksandr Usyk has admitted Terence Crawford is the current pound-for-pound No.1 in the sport.
The Ukrainian is widely regarded as one of the best heavyweight boxers of this generation. Prior to making his professional debut, it was evident that the 38-year-old was destined for big things in the sport after winning the World Championships in 2011 before winning Olympic gold a year later in London.
In 2013, Usyk finally turned pro and was quick to become a real household name in the sport. Within three years, the Ukrainian was already a world champion. That said, he was hungry for more. Five years after turning pro, the 'Cat' became an undisputed cruiserweight champion defeating Murat Gassiev on points.
Usyk made the decision to move up to heavyweight in 2019 and scored impressive victories over Chazz Witherspoon and Derek Chisora. In just his third fight at the aforementioned weight class, he became a world champion after defeating Anthony Joshua. He then beat the Brit for a second time before defeating Daniel Dubois. Last May, the 38-year-old became a two-division undisputed champion after beating Tyson Fury on points.
The Ukrainian would go on to beat the 'Gypsy King' for a second time back in December. Despite his accomplishments, Usyk was quick to praise Crawford, telling DAZN: 'For me, pound-for-pound No.1 is Terence Crawford. I like this man, he's a great fighter. For me, maybe I'm No. 17.'
Usyk's comments showed his real colours - proving that he really is all class both in and outside of the ring. Crawford won all the titles at super-lightweight before repeating the breathtaking achievement at welterweight in July 2023 when he toppled Errol Spence. He has since moved up again to claim another title at 154lbs and, in September, he faces the toughest test of his glittering career so far.
On September 13, he will take on Canelo Alvarez for the undisputed super-middleweight titles. Crawford will be looking to keep his perfect record intact, but faces a tough ask against the multi-weight ruler. As for Usyk, the Ukrainian is preparing for his return to competitive action.
The 38-year-old is scheduled to rematch Dubois next month at Wembley Stadium for the undisputed heavyweight world titles. The pair first met back in 2023 - with the Ukrainian going on to stop the Brit towards the back end of the contest. However, the fight was not without drama after Usyk was sent crashing to the canvas following a shot to the body that was eventually deemed a low blow - much to the frustration of Dubois' team.
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