Oleksandr Usyk Drops Bombshell: Why Boxing in Saudi Arabia Feels Like Home

Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion, has made a shocking revelation that has stirred the boxing world. While most fighters view Saudi Arabia as a lucrative but unfamiliar battleground, Usyk has publicly stated that the Middle Eastern kingdom feels like home to him.

This declaration has raised eyebrows among boxing fans and analysts alike. What makes Saudi Arabia such a comfortable venue for Usyk? Is it just about the financial incentives, or does the Ukrainian champion see something deeper in the country’s boxing culture?

As Usyk prepares for yet another blockbuster showdown in Saudi Arabia, let’s dive into why he feels at home, what this means for boxing’s future in the region, and how this shift is reshaping the sport’s global landscape.

The Rise of Saudi Arabia in the Boxing World

Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has rapidly become a powerhouse in hosting elite boxing events. Backed by massive financial investments from the Saudi government and figures like Turki Alalshikh, the country has drawn some of the biggest names in boxing to its venues.

Major fights held in Saudi Arabia include:

• Anthony Joshua vs. Andy Ruiz Jr. II—a historic rematch that marked the country’s entry into hosting global-level boxing matches.
• Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou—a high-profile crossover bout that attracted worldwide attention.
• Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev: A highly anticipated showdown between two dominant champions.
• The upcoming Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk fight—the first-ever undisputed heavyweight title fight in decades, set to take place in Riyadh.

With such a strong lineup, Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as the new home of boxing’s biggest fights, replacing traditional venues like Las Vegas and London.

But what makes Usyk feel so comfortable fighting here?

Usyk’s Perspective: Why Saudi Arabia Feels Like Home

1. Unparalleled Hospitality and Treatment

Usyk has praised the hospitality of Saudi Arabia, describing it as one of the most welcoming places he has ever fought in. Fighters who compete in Saudi Arabia are treated like royalty with top-tier accommodations, security, and facilities.

During his past visits to the country, Usyk has been met with great respect from local fans and the event organizers. He has mentioned in interviews that the energy and admiration from Saudi boxing supporters remind him of the passion he experiences in his home country, Ukraine.

• “They treat me with so much respect, like a brother,” Usyk stated in a recent interview.
• “The people here love boxing and appreciate the sport in a way that makes me feel truly welcomed.”

Unlike the often-hostile reception fighters receive in other countries, Usyk has experienced nothing but warmth and admiration in Saudi Arabia.

2. The Spiritual Connection to the Region

Beyond the hospitality, Usyk has also hinted at a deeper spiritual connection with Saudi Arabia. Known for his strong Orthodox Christian faith, Usyk has frequently spoken about the importance of spirituality and discipline in his boxing journey.

Saudi Arabia, being a deeply religious country, resonates with his personal values of faith, discipline, and mental strength. The calm and disciplined environment of the country allows him to focus completely on his training and fight preparation without distractions.

• “There is a special energy here. It’s different from fighting in Europe or the United States,” Usyk said in an interview.
• “The people are very focused on faith and discipline, which is something I respect deeply.”

3. A Financial and Career Boost

Let’s not ignore the financial aspect—Saudi Arabia has changed the game in terms of fighting purses. The country offers record-breaking payouts for boxers willing to compete on its soil.

For example, Usyk’s upcoming fight against Tyson Fury is expected to be one of the biggest paydays of his career, with reports suggesting he could earn upwards of $50 million from the bout alone.

But Usyk has insisted that it’s not just about the money. The financial support from Saudi Arabia has allowed him to invest in his home country, support Ukrainian boxing, and continue his mission to inspire the next generation of fighters.

• “Of course, the financial rewards are incredible, but this is also about legacy,” Usyk stated.
• “By fighting here, I am securing a future for my family and my country’s boxing scene.”

Saudi Arabia’s investment in boxing has created a win-win situation—fighters get career-defining paydays, while the country cements itself as a global boxing hub.

How Saudi Arabia is Changing Boxing’s Future

Usyk’s embrace of Saudi Arabia reflects a larger trend—the sport’s biggest fights are shifting away from traditional venues and toward the Middle East.

1. A New Global Center for Boxing

With massive financial backing and the ability to attract top-tier fighters, Saudi Arabia is challenging the dominance of Las Vegas and London as boxing’s premier fight destinations.

Promoters are now prioritizing Saudi Arabia over traditional locations because of:

• Higher fighter payouts
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Massive worldwide viewership

This trend shows no signs of stopping, and fighters like Usyk fully support the shift.

2. Bigger and Better Fights

With Saudi Arabia funding major fights, fans are getting dream matchups that might not have happened otherwise.

For years, the boxing world waited for a heavyweight unification bout—something that financial disagreements and promotional politics delayed. But now, thanks to Saudi Arabia’s involvement, the Usyk vs. Fury fight is finally happening.

With money no longer being an obstacle, Saudi Arabia is making sure that fans get the biggest fights possible.

3. A New Generation of Boxing Fans

By hosting these events, Saudi Arabia is also creating a new fanbase for boxing. Young fans in the Middle East are being introduced to the sport, and the popularity of boxing is growing rapidly in the region.

• Training centers and boxing gyms are increasing.
• More Middle Eastern fighters are gaining recognition.
• The sport is becoming a bigger part of the culture.

For fighters like Usyk, being part of this movement means helping to shape boxing’s future in a new part of the world.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Usyk and Boxing

Oleksandr Usyk’s shock statement about Saudi Arabia feeling like home may have surprised many, but it reflects a deeper truth—the Middle East is becoming the new heartbeat of professional boxing.

For Usyk, Saudi Arabia offers:
Unmatched hospitality
A spiritual and disciplined environment
Financial security for his career and his country
A chance to be part of boxing’s future in a new region

As he prepares for the biggest fight of his career against Tyson Fury, Usyk is not just fighting for belts—he’s embracing a global shift in the sport.  Boxing’s future is being rewritten, and Saudi Arabia is at the center of it.  Now, the question remains: Will Usyk’s journey in Saudi Arabia end with a historic victory? The world will be watching.