Famous footballers and Hollywood movie stars join new social media trend supporting Oleksandr Usyk ahead of Tyson Fury rematch
As Oleksandr Usyk prepares to step back into the ring for one of the most anticipated rematches in boxing history against Tyson Fury, the Ukrainian superstar isn’t just rallying his team—he’s uniting the world.
A new social media challenge, ‘I’m Team Usyk,’ organised by Ready To Fight, has become a global phenomenon, with famous faced from Ukraine getting behind the Undisputed Heavyweight champion.
The challenge is simple but effective: record a video supporting Usyk, post it on social media with the hashtag #TeamUsyk, and you’re in the running to win an exclusive Ready To Fight T-shirt. But beyond the prizes, it’s the star-studded lineup of supporters that has captured attention.
From Ukrainian Olympic champions Yaroslava Mahuchikh and Daria Bilodid to FC Benfica’s Anatoliy Trubin and even Hollywood actor Liev Schreiber, the campaign has attracted an eclectic mix of high-profile backers.
Usyk will be looking to defeat Fury for a second time, having stripped him off his WBC heavyweight title in May to become the first Undisputed Heavyweight champion of the four-belt era.
Usyk’s journey to heavyweight superstardom is as unconventional as it is inspiring. A former cruiserweight king who swept through the division to claim undisputed status, Usyk carried his immaculate technique and relentless work ethic into the heavyweight ranks.
Oleksandr Usyk’s supporters are behind him as he prepares to step back into the ring for one of the most anticipated rematches in boxing history against Tyson Fury
The 37-year-old’s victory over Anthony Joshua, in 2021 cemented his legacy, and his subsequent rematch win proved it was no fluke – putting him next in line to face the Gypsy King.
On December 23 in Riyadh, he’ll face Fury for a second time. This rematch follows their explosive first encounter earlier this year, where Usyk weathered Fury’s size and bravado to secure a razor-thin decision that sent shockwaves through the boxing world.
For Usyk, this fight is about more than boxing—it’s about representing Ukraine on the world stage during turbulent times. It’s about proving that technique, intelligence, and heart can overcome any challenge, even against a larger-than-life opponent like Fury.
What sets the ‘I’m Team Usyk’ challenge apart is its tone. In an era where trash talk often dominates fight promotions, Ready To Fight and Team Usyk are choosing a different path.
‘At Ready To Fight, we understand the importance of fan engagement better than anyone,’ says Sergey Lapin, director of Usyk’s team. ‘However, we avoid trash talk and other unsportsmanlike tactics.’
Lapin – who has known Usyk since they were children – went on to add: ‘Oleksandr Usyk and his team embody values like solidarity, community, and teamwork. This campaign is a reflection of those principles.’
The challenge echoes Usyk’s reputation as a fighter who thrives on respect and sportsmanship. His unorthodox training methods, trademark humour, and devotion to his craft have endeared him to fans worldwide.
As the deadline for the challenge draws near, anticipation for the rematch reaches a fever pitch. Will Fury, known for his larger-than-life persona and awkward style, reclaim his throne? Or will Usyk’s cerebral approach and unyielding determination secure another victory?
