Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk was briefly detained at Krakow airport on Tuesday night but has since been released. A video circulating on social media showed Usyk in handcuffs, prompting widespread concern.
The reasons for Usyk’s detention remain unclear. However, Usyk took to Instagram to clarify the situation, describing it as “a misunderstanding” with the local police. He expressed gratitude towards Ukrainian diplomats and the Polish police for their handling of the situation, stating, “Thanks to all who got concerned. Thanks to Ukrainian diplomats for the efficient support, and respect to Polish Police for conducting their obligations with no regards to height, weight, reach and regalia. Thanks God to everything.”
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky also weighed in on the matter, expressing his displeasure over the treatment of Usyk. In a Telegram post, Zelensky said, “I spoke to Oleksandr Usyk on the phone when he was detained. I was outraged by this attitude towards our citizen and champion.”
He instructed Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybizi and Internal Affairs Minister Ihor Klymenko to investigate the incident promptly. Zelensky confirmed that once he was informed everything was resolved, Usyk was released and no further detentions occurred.
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