Zelenskyy rages after Polish police handcuff Ukraine’s world champion boxer Usyk

KYIV — A major diplomatic incident was narrowly averted Tuesday, after Polish law enforcement handcuffed Ukraine’s undisputed world heavyweight champion boxer Oleksandr Usyk at Krakow airport — before later releasing him.

“I was outraged by this attitude towards our citizen and champion,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a Telegram statement late Tuesday, adding that he talked to Usyk after his detention and ordered Kyiv’s foreign ministry to investigate the situation.

Ukraine said its diplomats had been in touch with Polish authorities over Usyk’s detention.

“A misunderstanding took place. It was quickly resolved,” Usyk said in a post on X. “Thanks to all who got concerned. Thanks to Ukrainian diplomats for the efficient support. And respect to Polish Police for conducting their obligations with no regards to height, weight, reach and regalia.”

According to Polish news website Onet, citing local boxing promoter Andrzej Wasilewski, Usyk came to Krakow by car to board a plane for a training camp in Spain, but his associate was not allowed to board the aircraft. The boxing champ took issue with the decision and both were handcuffed.