Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has extended a bold invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to spend a week in his home in war-torn Ukraine. The Ukrainian boxer’s emotional message comes as part of a continued effort to bring international attention to the daily horrors endured by his country amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Speaking to BBC Sport ahead of his July 19 rematch against Britain’s Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, Usyk shared a personal and passionate response to Trump’s controversial claim that he could end the Ukraine war “within 24 hours” if re-elected.
“I advise American President Donald Trump to come to Ukraine and live in my house for one week,” he said. “Only one week. I will give him my house. Live please in Ukraine and watch what is going on every night. Every night, there are bombs and flights above my house. Bombs, rockets. Every night. It’s enough.”
His comments follow Trump’s continued criticism of Ukraine’s leadership, including blaming President Volodymyr Zelensky for “starting the war” and suggesting a lack of gratitude from Kyiv for U.S. involvement in diplomatic efforts. Earlier this year, Zelensky was asked to leave the White House following a tense exchange with Trump during which the former president demanded more appreciation for American assistance.
Whether Trump would ever accept such an invitation is uncertain, but the boxer believes seeing the devastation firsthand could shift his perspective. “Maybe he’ll understand, maybe he won’t. Ukrainian people are dying. It’s not just military guys, but children, women, grandmothers, and grandfathers. For me, it’s hard. It’s my country. I worry about what happens in my country,” he added
Read also: Usyk vs Dubois: Oscar act or clean Fight?
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has endured relentless airstrikes, displacements, and loss of civilian life.
The 37-year-old became a symbol of resilience when he defeated Anthony Joshua in August 2022 and dedicated the victory to Ukraine. That emotional night marked not just a sporting triumph but a national statement, demonstrating that Ukrainians would not be silenced or diminished.
His upcoming fight against Dubois presents more than just a sporting challenge. A win would make Usyk a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion and solidify his legacy. However, for the fighter-turned-symbol, the title is not his only battle.
“I fight in the ring for my family, for my people, for my country,” Usyk said. “But the real fight is happening every day at home. We need peace. We need support. We need the world to see what’s really happening.”
The rematch at Wembley on July 19 is expected to draw global attention, especially as it pits Usyk’s quest for undisputed glory against Dubois’ chance to make history as the first Englishman to win all four major heavyweight titles.
But no matter the outcome in the ring, Usyk’s most powerful punches may come from the message he continues to deliver outside of it — a plea for understanding, empathy, and global solidarity with Ukraine in its time of need.
