Don King, on Mike Tyson


"Why would anyone expect him to come out smarter?
He went to prison, not to Princeton."



"To me, boxing is like a ballet, except there's no music
and the dancers hit each other."

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Usyk’s Unique and Versatile Training Methods | Full Breakdown



 

Usyk’s Unique and Versatile Training Methods | Full Breakdown
https://youtu.be/FJn7UcxBwFc


Oleksandr Usyk's training routine is rigorous and diverse regimen 
that includes explosive strength training, cardio, and technical boxing drills, designed to enhance his performance as heavyweight 
champion.

Overview of Usyk's Training Regimen


    Training Schedule: Usyk typically engages in three training sessions per day, starting with early morning workouts around 4:30 AM. These sessions focus on building strength, endurance, and technical skills.


    Strength and Conditioning: His strength training is dynamic and explosive, utilizing kettlebells, gymnastic rings, and resistance bands. This approach helps develop not just muscle strength but also coordination and body control, essential for boxing. Usyk incorporates plyometric exercises to enhance explosive power, which is crucial for delivering strong punches in the ring.


    Cardio and Endurance: Usyk's cardio routine includes running, swimming, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). He emphasizes varied exercises to improve his overall conditioning and stamina, ensuring he can maintain high performance throughout long fights.


    Boxing Drills: Technical training is a significant part of Usyk's regimen. He practices shadowboxing, heavy bag work, and sparring with various partners to refine his skills and adapt to different fighting styles. This includes over 250 sparring rounds during training camps.


    Unique Training Methods: Usyk also employs unconventional training techniques, such as underwater exercises to enhance lung capacity and mental focus. His workouts often include CrossFit-style challenges and even sledgehammer workouts to build functional strength.


     
     

    5 Sources
    Key Elements of Usyk's Training
    Explosive Movements: Usyk's workouts are designed to train his body for quick reactions and maximum output, essential for the fast-paced nature of boxing.


    Variety and Adaptability: The diversity in his training prevents injuries and keeps his body adaptable to the demands of high-caliber opponents.

    Mental Toughness: Early morning sessions not only build physical strength but also instill discipline and mental resilience, crucial traits for a champion.

    Usyk's comprehensive training routine reflects his commitment to excellence in boxing, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques to maintain his status as an elite heavyweight champion.
     
     
  • 3 Sources

SKIPPING FOR EXERCISE


Skipping is a fixture in all boxing gyms.  It turns out that hockey players use this form of exercise, as well.

SKIPPING FOR EXERCISE: 


Key Benefits for Hockey Players


Cardiovascular Conditioning and Endurance — Skipping elevates heart rate quickly and mimics the stop-start intensity of hockey shifts, improving stamina without needing a rink or bike.

Foot Speed, Agility, and Quickness - The rapid, repetitive jumps enhance quick footwork, essential for explosive skating starts, stops, and directional changes on the ice.

Coordination, Balance, and Rhythm - I: develops timing, proprioception (body awareness), and postural control, which translate to better edge work and stability on skates (hockey blades are rounded, and unpredictable landings in skipping build similar adaptability).

Lower Body Strength and Power — It strengthens ankles, shins, calves, and feet, reducing injury risk and improving powr transfer into the ice for faster strides. It



Monday, January 5, 2026

Oleksandr Usyk juggling while standing on a balance ball


Oleksandr Usyk has showcased his impressive juggling skills during his training sessions, particularly on a gym ball.

A recent clip of Usyk juggling three balls while standing on a gym ball has intrigued fans, highlighting his unique training methods.

1)  His juggling ability is part of a broader training regimen that emphasizes reaction time, hand-eye coordination, and various movement techniques.

Usyk's juggling skills have been noted as a testament to his training and preparation for upcoming fights.

2)  These skills are not just for show; they are integral to his training and performance as a professional boxer.


 

Oleksandr Usyk juggling while standing on a balance ball