22 May 2026, Cairo, Egypt – Ahead of his upcoming fight in Cairo on 23 May, world champion boxer Oleksandr Usyk has met with Ukrainian veterans now working on the country’s energy frontline, highlighting the resilience of those rebuilding Ukraine amid continued Russian attacks.
The meeting brought together Usyk and a group of Ukrainian veterans who, after serving in the armed forces, have returned to civilian life as energy workers restoring electricity under constant threat.
As russia continues to target critical energy infrastructure, these workers remain on the frontline, this time ensuring that homes, hospitals and cities have power.
The veterans travelled to Cairo to support Usyk ahead of his fight, reflecting a relationship built over several years. Usyk has consistently supported Ukraine’s energy workers, including visiting DTEK thermal power plants and meeting crews carrying out restoration work across the country.
“The world talks about boxing champions. But not everyone knows the champions of light. My victories are measured in championship belts. Theirs are measured in lights returning to people’s homes. I’ve gone all 12 rounds many times. They’ve kept the lights on for five years. I’ve fought some of the strongest opponents in the world. But they fight real darkness. I spend months preparing for a fight. They wake up every day preparing for theirs. Support Ukraine’s energy workers. Support Ukraine. Because the fight for light goes on.,” said Oleksandr Usyk.
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has been repeatedly targeted, causing widespread damage and power shortages affecting millions of people.
As attacks continue, the fight for light continues.
The Fight For Light campaign focuses on mobilising international support to rebuild damaged energy facilities, securing critical equipment for power generation and grids, supporting energy workers operating under daily risk and keeping global attention on the humanitarian impact of energy attacks
The meeting in Cairo underscores a broader story of Ukraine’s resilience. Many of the veterans present have transitioned directly from military service to restoring electricity in regions impacted by ongoing attacks, continuing to serve the country in a different but equally critical role.
Their presence in Cairo, supporting one of Ukraine’s most prominent global figures, highlights a shared message: the fight continues, both on the battlefield and in keeping Ukraine’s lights on.
With global attention focused on Usyk’s fight, his support for Ukraine’s energy workers brings international visibility to the ongoing challenges facing the country’s energy system, and the people working to rebuild it.
