Usyk confirmed the trip and his plans in the city.
“Going to Kiev with Anthony Joshua. Already planning a little tour of the city. Excited to show off some of my favorite spots!”
The visit joins Saturday’s “Rising Stars” show, headlined by Daniel Lapin (12-0), who defends his WBO International, WBA Continental and IBF Intercontinental light-heavyweight belts against Kristaps Bulmeistars. The card will be live at 12pm ET Prime Video. The event takes place at Equides Club in Lisnyky and marks the return of Usyk17 Promotions after a break in activity.
Lapin made weight Friday and talked about the importance of fighting at home.
“Fighting in Kiev means everything to me. It’s my home, the place that shaped who I am, not only as a boxer, but as a person.”
He has not been fighting in the city for more than four years.
“I haven’t had the chance to step here in the ring for over four years, so to come back now feels incredibly powerful. To perform in front of my people again, in my city, is something really special.”
The show forms part of Usyk’s plan to build a structure for fighters coming through in Ukraine. Lapin is expected to play a central role in that setup.
“I see this as just the first step in the development of this company here in Ukraine,” he said. “We’re building something meaningful, and in the future I believe you’ll see us involved in bigger and bigger shows,” he said Post online
The card also features Oleksandr Khyzhniak, making his professional debut, alongside heavyweight Dmytro Lovchynskyi. This is a clear attempt to build rounds, get fights under their belt and develop through proper opposition
Usyk is building his own promotional circuit while still active at heavyweight, giving him influence over how his fighters are matched up and developed.
Joshua’s presence brings added attention, with a former contender on the grounds, while the card is still built around developing fighters.
