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Zelensky, Klitschko brothers salute Usyk on heavyweight glory 

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky led the tributes to Oleksandr Usyk after his historic victory over British fighter Tyson Fury in Riyadh, making Usyk the first undisputed world heavyweight boxing champion in 25 years. The 37-year-old, who briefly served in the Ukrainian army following the Russian invasion in February 2022, described his points victory as a significant moment for himself, his family, and his country.

Zelensky praised Usyk on Telegram, emphasizing that Ukrainians fight hard and ultimately triumph over their opponents. He highlighted that Usyk’s achievement of holding four heavyweight belts simultaneously is a testament to Ukrainian endurance and strength, symbolizing victory for the war-torn nation.

Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kiev and a former world heavyweight champion, also lauded Usyk, noting that his victory demonstrated Ukrainians’ ability to overcome strong adversaries in challenging circumstances. Vitali’s brother, Wladimir Klitschko, another former heavyweight champion, was present ringside in Saudi Arabia and echoed his sibling’s sentiments. He acknowledged the immense pressure Usyk faced and commended his performance against Fury, declaring Usyk the best fighter in modern history and expressing pride in their shared Ukrainian heritage.

Usyk, born in Simferopol, Crimea, faced criticism from Ukrainians in 2014 for his neutral stance on Russia’s annexation of the peninsula and for stating that Russians and Ukrainians were the same people. However, following Russia’s 2022 invasion, Usyk’s support for Ukraine became unequivocal, earning him the backing of the Ukrainian armed forces. Mikola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, stated that Usyk’s victory highlighted Ukraine’s strength and determination in defending its identity, language, culture, and traditions. A fighting unit also expressed their support with a message celebrating Ukraine and its defenders.

Television presenter and actor Sergiy Prytula viewed Usyk’s triumph as a morale booster for the entire nation, equating his win to a victory for Ukraine. Eurovision Song Contest winner Jamala expressed pride in Usyk’s accomplishment with a heartfelt message of gratitude.

By securing the WBC title from Fury in addition to his WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, Usyk became the first boxer to be the undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis defeated Evander Holyfield in 1999.

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AFCON 2025: Super Eagles threaten to boycott Algeria match over unpaid win bonuses

It was gathered that win bonuses for the four matches against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique have yet to be settled.

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• Super Eagles win against Mozambique

Super Eagles players have threatened to boycott their quarter final match against Algeria unless all outstanding winning bonuses are paid by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

A highly reliable source within the team disclosed to Vanguard that the team have resolved not to travel to Marrakech for their next match on Thursday this week.

According to the source, players and officials are reportedly still awaiting their bonus payments from the tournament.

It was gathered that win bonuses for the four matches against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique have yet to be settled.

While the team remains committed to the competition, they have made it clear that they will not train or travel to Marrakech for the next match unless the outstanding payments are resolved, our source confirmed.

Recall that in November, the team also threatened to boycott their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Gabon, citing unpaid entitlements.

In a joint statement signed by players and staff, the squad said, “The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco because of unresolved issues with outstanding payments.

The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution to continue preparations for Thursday’s game with Gabon.”

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Fenerbahçe wants to buy Ademola Lookman from Atlanta for €42m

Lookman is currently with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where he has been one of the tournament’s standout performers.

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Photo: Ademola Lookman, in action

Turkish giants Fenerbahçe are preparing a January move for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman as the Yellow Canaries look to strengthen their attacking options with the Nigerian winger.

Sport Mediaset journalist Orazio Accomando, hinted that Fenerbahçe are ready to submit an offer structured as a €5 million paid loan, with a right, or potential obligation, to buy set at €37 million, taking the total package to €42 million.

Discussions are still at an early stage, but Lookman has been identified as a priority target as the Istanbul club seeks to reinforce its squad.

Atalanta, however, value the Nigerian international highly following his impressive performances in Serie A and European competition and are reluctant to approve any deal that delays a permanent sale unless the conditions are particularly favourable.

Lookman is currently with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where he has been one of the tournament’s standout performers.

The former African Player of the Year has recorded three goals and four assists in just three matches, performances that have significantly boosted his market value.

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Nigeria Pummels Mozambique 4-0 to reach AFCON quarterfinals

The Super Eagles will now await the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Algeria and DR Congo as they prepare for a crucial quarterfinal showdown.

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Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a 4-0 victory over Mozambique, booking their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria were rampant from start to finish, asserting their dominance with pace, precision and ruthless finishing.

Ademola Lookman opened the scoring with a well-taken effort to set the tone, before Victor Osimhen struck twice to put the contest beyond Mozambique’s reach.

A late goal from Adams capped a flawless display by the Eagles.

The result underlined Nigeria’s growing confidence and attacking depth as they continue their quest for continental glory, shutting out Mozambique with a disciplined defensive display and relentless pressure going forward.

The Super Eagles will now await the winner of the Round of 16 clash between Algeria and DR Congo as they prepare for a crucial quarterfinal showdown.

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