OLEKSANDR USAK has been training relentlessly for his big heavyweight rematch against Anthony Joshua. But a stuffed donkey could be his key to success.
As a Disney donkey, the Ukrainian powerhouse is never far from Disney.
Oleksandr Usyk has a not so secret weapon: a toy stuffed donkey
Now Usyk has shared the heartwarming story behind his secret weapon.
Learn why...
Why is Oleksandr Usyk carrying the stuffed donkey?
Oleksandr Usyk, a boxing legend, left Ukraine after a terrible civil war to train for his defense of the world title. He was separated from his daughter Yelizaveta.
Yelizaveta was aware that her father would be traveling to Saudi Arabia to face Anthony Joshua. Yelizaveta felt the need for protection and decided to send Eeyore, a character from Winnie-the Pooh.
Usyk acknowledged that Yelizaveta had renamed Disney's donkey Liolia, and it is now a key part of Team Usyk.
What has Oleksandr Usyk to say about the stuffed donkey?
According to the Ukrainian heavyweight, his 12-year-old daughter insists that Liolia go wherever he goes.
Yelizaveta, Usyk's child, gave Liolia to her father for protection
Usyk stated that it was her daughter. It was her talisman and she gave it to me. It was purchased when we were all together at Disneyland Paris.
My daughter gave me this toy when we left Ukraine together, but our roads were separated in Europe. She said that she wanted it to be next to her.
Win with William Hill - Oleksandr Usyk at 40/1 or Anthony Joshua at 25/1
"It sleeps beside me, is always near to and she told I to bring it to my media event.
"I'm not sure if it will be in my corner. She is a lady, so she might get scared. But she will certainly be in my dressing area."
What time is Joshua vs Usyk II?
- Joshua vs Usyk 2, will be held Saturday August 20, 20.
- The fight will be held in Jeddah (Saudi Arabia).
- The start time is 10.54 pm for UK viewers.
AJ vs Usyk 2, confirmed fight time, TV and live streaming info for Saturday's blockbuster
