OLEKSANDR USYK looks stronger than ever, according to Alex Krassyuk, his promoter.
After signing up to the Ukraine war effort following the Russian invasion, the Ukrainian 35-year-old spent some time in the ring.
Alex Krassyuk, his promoter, says that Oleksander Usyk has never been stronger.
Krassyuk likened his fighter to a Cyborg
Usyk is flying Ukraine's flag
Many have predicted that Anthony Joshua will lose to Usyk once again
Krassyuk believes that Usyk's "hell" has strengthened him and made him stronger as he prepares to face Anthony Joshua.
Sky Sports' Krassyuk said: "We look at his recent videos and realize that he looks like an alien cyborg."
"He was through hell in the last three months. It didn't kill him, but it made him stronger. He is more determined than ever before.
"Not many champs can experience the same thing as going through the war, and then making it to the ring to defend their heavyweight crown. It was a difficult assignment. He seems to have done it well."
Usyk is also motivated to defend his WBA and WBO heavyweight title belts. He is also flying the flag of Ukraine.
Krassyuk said that AJ is a fighter who has the blessings of the Ukrainian people.
The promoter stated that he made the decision to rematch the match in these circumstances after receiving massive support from the Ukrainian military.
"He kept in touch with high-ranking officers and visited hospitals with wounded combatants. He also spoke with fans, and he received words of support and blessings in every conversation.
People want him to fight. People want him winning. All of them want the Ukrainian flag raised and the Ukrainian national anthem heard all over the globe.
"The entire world must know that Ukraine is a country of free, transparent and strong people. These messages are not easily delivered by many men. Usyk is one of them, and he does it through sports.
"Let history decide how exceptional he is."
Mike Tyson, a boxing legend, believes Usyk will have problems in Saudia Arabia with his speed and jab. He tips Usyk to win unless AJ is able to land a knockout.
Tyson Fury expects Usyk will win again because he is "too great a boxer" to fight Joshua. Joshua does not have the ability to press Usyk for 12 rounds, according to the Gypsy King.
