Pre-fight fuel: What gives Oleksandr Usyk his knockout power

Who is behind Usyk's diet?

Usyk's diet is managed by a team of professionals, including Ukrainian endocrinologist and nutritionist Kateryna Tolstikova, who accompanies the champion even during international bouts.

"Nutrition is no less important than training," says the specialist. "Her task is to ensure a balance between energy expenditure and intake, support muscle mass, weight, and the boxer's immunity."

The strategy changes depending on the training phase, the level of physical load, and even monthly blood test results that Usyk undergoes.

What Oleksandr Usyk eats before a fight

Usyk's diet isn't about exotic foods. It's all about precision and quality. His menu consists of familiar Ukrainian staples: grains, potatoes, pasta, vegetables, fruits, berries, eggs, fish, nuts, and olive oil.

Proportions are precisely measured: 50-60% complex carbohydrates, followed by proteins and fats.

In a comment under one of her posts, Kateryna noted that the athlete's diet includes "a lot of complex carbohydrates."

Oleksandr Usyk and Kateryna Tolstikova (photo: instagram.com/dr.tolstikova)

A typical meal: buckwheat + salmon or tuna + vegetables + berries + 2-3 eggs + a spoonful of oil + a handful of nuts. For snacks, he usually has bananas, dates, protein shakes, and sometimes even sandwiches. There are no forbidden foods, and it all depends on the training camp's goals.

"An athlete must consume as much energy as they expend. Otherwise, there's a risk of losing form or even harming their health," the nutritionist explains.

Everything from breakfast to dinner is calculated with pinpoint accuracy.

This approach allows Usyk to remain in top shape, maintain endurance, strength, and flexibility even in the highest weight class.

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Sources: Instagram of Kateryna Tolstikova, The Overlap.