Russian former heavyweight boxing champion Denis Lebedev has expressed strong disapproval of Alexander Usyk's recent appeal to Donald Trump, in which the Ukrainian boxer urged the former US president not to follow Russia's lead in the ongoing conflict.
In an interview with Russian sports media, Lebedev questioned Usyk's involvement in political matters, suggesting the Ukrainian boxer should focus exclusively on his sporting career.
"What does Usyk have to do with Trump or politics? They should make Usyk president of Ukraine. They already put one [entertainer] in that position," Lebedev stated, referring to current Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "Being president requires education and lifelong dedication to governing a country. Usyk should not interfere in these matters."
The Russian boxer continued his criticism with references to religion: "He should silently focus on his profession! He claims to be Orthodox Christian, so he should live according to God's commandments, that's all. He knows and promotes this himself."
According to Statbet analysis, the tension between boxers from Russia and Ukraine has increased significantly over the past two years, with many athletes becoming vocal about their political positions regarding the conflict.
Usyk has previously warned about potential global consequences if Western nations fail to halt Russian aggression against Ukraine. The Ukrainian champion, who holds titles in multiple weight categories, has been vocal about what he claims Russia has taken from him and his country.
In recent statements, Usyk also outlined what he considers Ukraine's primary objective in the face of Russian military actions, maintaining his position as not only a sports figure but also as a voice for his nation during the ongoing conflict.
