Young Oleksandr Usyk boldly called out Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko to their faces, Wladimir looked unimpressed
Oleksandr Usyk is not known as a braggadocios boxer by means.
The former undisputed cruiserweight king, now unified heavyweight world champion, is famously humble and respectful to the point that he seldom ever even issues direct call-outs to his opponents.
However, back in 2013 when he was preparing to make his professional debut, the young Usyk directly challenged Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko live on Ukrainian TV.
He was just 26 years old at the time and had recently won Olympic gold as an amateur.
Usyk signed a promotional contract with the Klitschkos' company K2 Promotions when he made the decision to turn pro.
As a result, he appeared alongside them on TV and was put in an awkward position by the host who asked him how he would attempt to beat the brothers - who were the reigning heavyweight world champions at the time.
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Usyk replied: "Great, another good question.
"I have signed a contract with K2 Promotions and I think I can get to them very soon.
"And I have a question to Wladimir - I've been at your training camp, I've seen all the preparation, so I know what I'm trying to sign up for.
"When I get to you, do you plan to leave the belts and retire, or will I have to step into the ring against you?
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"And in fact, Vitali is also the champion, and I beg his pardon, but it concerns him as well."
Vitali answered first: "A wonderful question Oleksandr, I can say only that you will never have a fight with me.
"We will do our best for you to have a duel for the world title belt.
"You should gain experience, and it will take one or two years.
"And Wladimir will surely reply for himself."
Wladimir did indeed answer: "I would like you to know that I like you very much - this lad who is the Olympic champion.
"Regardless of what he's watched at my training camp, or my sparring practices and me working in the ring, he's extremely courageous officially challenging me now on TV.
"But all I can do is invite him to my sparring practice."
Usyk replied: "I accept the invitation."
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