Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk, known for his sporting achievements and active public position, attracted public attention with his recent trip to a Moscow church. The visit took place on August 25, at a Sunday service led by Metropolitan Onufry.
The athlete visited the church in the name of the Monk Agapit Pechersky, located in the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. The service was led by Metropolitan Onuphry.
A photo of Usyk among pilgrims appeared on the Lavra website. In the picture, he stands tall among women in headscarves. The boxer has an earring with a cross in his ear.
Oleksandr Usyk is known for his loyalty to the Moscow Patriarchate. He has previously been spotted attending services at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. In addition, the athlete starred in Oksana Marchenko's propaganda series "Pilgrim".
As a reminder, on August 23, Usyk received the “Legend of Ukraine” award from President Zelensky.
“It is an honor for me to award the true legends of Ukraine today. We glorify all those who strengthen our soldiers, strengthen them daily and inspire them. These are people who glorify Ukraine, strengthening our defense and inspiring all citizens of Ukraine… We are infinitely grateful and very happy to live in a country that has united such respectable and talented people,” Zelenskyy said then.
On August 21, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a law banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP).
