A shocking video appears to show boxing star Oleksandr Usyk being led away in handcuffs at an airport.
Usyk, 37, was detained in Poland at Krakow airport, according to widespread reports on social media.
A clip of the Ukrainian being led away by officers emerged online, with the fighter’s wife and camp manager responding to the dramatic incident.
‼️ Oleksandr Usyk has seemingly been arrested at Krakow Airport in Poland today, though full information about the situation is currently unknown…
On social media, Usyk’s wife Kateryna said: “Everything is fine, everything is fine. Oleksandr will explain everything later. Nothing criminal, goodnight everyone.”
His friend and camp manager Serge Lapin added: “Don’t worry, everything’s fine. The customs control service is neglecting its duties.”
Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky took to social media to confirm that Usyk was released after being detained.
“I spoke with Oleksandr Usyk on the phone after he was detained,” he wrote on X.
“I was disappointed by this attitude towards our citizen and champion.
“I instructed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, and the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, Ihor Klymenko, to immediately look into all the details of the incident at Kraków airport.
“Now, everything is fine, our champion has been released, and he is no longer being detained. In the photo, he is with our Consul General in Kraków right after being released.”
The boxer himself also penned a statement on social media.
“Dear Friends. A misunderstanding took place. It was quickly resolved,” he said. “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.”
Oleksandr Usyk celebrates his victory over Tyson Fury. Image: Getty
Usyk hasn’t fought since his stunning victory over Tyson Fury, where he won the WBC world heavyweight title to become undisputed champion.
However, he was forced to relinquish the IBF title, with Daniel Dubois being elevated to full champion after capturing the interim belt against Filip Hrgovic.
Usyk will defend his WBA (super), WBC and WBO world titles in the rematch against Fury in Saudi Arabia on December 21.
He is expected to travel to London this week to sit ringside for the IBF world title fight between Anthony Joshua and Dubois, which takes place at Wembley Stadium.