“My heart’s with Usyk tonight” - Hollywood hero of Ukrainian ancestry arrives in Riyadh to witness historic Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk clash

American actor in support of Oleksandr Usyk (pictured) at the
American actor in support of Oleksandr Usyk (pictured) at the 'Ring of Fire' May 18 event [Photo Courtesy @usykaa on Instagram]

The stars are out for Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, including actor Liev Schreiber, who offered his prediction for the undisputed heavyweight title fight. Schreiber admitted he is biased, revealing his connection to one of the headlining champions.

In his prediction, Schreiber owned up to being "partial" due to having a Ukrainian ethnic background. The 56-year-old told DAZN Boxing that he expects "fireworks" but is rooting for Usyk.

Schreiber said:

"[Both men are] Such extraordinary champions. I'm partial, as a grandson of Ukrainian immigrants. My heart's with Usyk tonight but Tyson Fury is also an incredible champion [with the] heart of a lion, and he looks to be in fantastic shape... I think if Tyson can keep him on the end of that jab and at distance he's got a chance."

Schreiber has made his support for Ukraine known in recent years, often posting about the country on social media. Though Schreiber revealed his connection to the nation, the actor was born and raised in America.

Making his way to Riyadh for fight week, Schreiber met up with Usyk on the event weigh-in day and posted pictures of their interaction on Instagram, calling the moment his "happy place."

As a known sports fan, Schreiber has not starred in any boxing films to date but was notably a member of the 2011 film Goon, playing the role of a violent hockey player and antagonist, "Ross 'The Boss' Rhea."

In the final hours before the fight, Usyk is closing as a slight underdog to Fury despite holding the WBA, WBO, IBO, IBF and The Ring heavyweight titles. Fury enters the night as the WBC divisional champion.

The two heavyweight kings will collide on May 18 with the pay-per-view beginning at 6 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. GMT from the Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia.

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