Ukrainian Oleksandr Oleksandrovych Usyk is an exceptional boxer and one of the few to be successful in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.
Charlie Gray photographed the boxer for Arena Homme+ Summer/Autumn 2026 in vintage Stone Island.
Oleksandr Usyk has been a regular on Stone Island for years – jackets, hoodies, beanies, and more. The brand perfectly complements his sporty, minimalist, and slightly street style. The brand gained significant traction when Usyk began appearing at his major fights (such as his Wembley events) in custom-made Stone Island outfits for his ring walk – instead of traditional boxing attire.
The photoshoot and interview took place at Usyk's training camp in the lead-up to his spectacular heavyweight bout against kickboxer Rico Verhoeven, which was held at the Pyramids of Giza on May 23, 2026.
Oleksandr Usyk defeated Dutch heavyweight kickboxing giant Rico Verhoeven by stoppage in an extremely spectacular and much-discussed heavyweight fight, successfully defending his world titles.
The Pyramids of Giza are among the most famous and oldest surviving structures of humankind. They are the only remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
"Congratulations to @turki for an amazing night of boxing in Giza." - Charlie Gray, Photographer.
"I'm very happy to be part of the new issue of Arena HOMME+. I enjoy working with people who see not only the athlete, but also the person—his journey, character, and discipline. Thank you to everyone involved for this story!" - Oleksandr Usyk, Legend.
In the magazine interview, the athlete discusses, among other things, how he handles pressure, precision in the ring, and his uniquely agile footwork, which, along with other talents, makes him one of the most intelligent boxers of his generation.
Oleksandr Usyk is considered one of the most technically skilled and intelligent boxers of the 21st century. He maintains a flawless professional record and has made boxing history. He is one of the very few boxers (alongside heavyweights like Muhammad Ali and boxers of the four-belt era like Terence Crawford) to have achieved the status of undisputed world champion in two different weight classes - first in the cruiserweight division (2018) and later in the heavyweight division (2024/2025).
Photographer Charlie Gray is represented by the agency LGA MGMT, Paris - London - NYC.