OLEKSANDR USYK broke down in tears after beating Tyson Fury as he revealed he begged his deceased father not to visit his dreams.
Ukraine’s 37-year-old won 2012 London Olympic gold for his dad but he died before the southpaw sensation could get home to celebrate.
The former Soviet soldier has regularly haunted his son's night visions since and instilled belief with a fatherly smile.
But Usyk - himself now a devoted father of four - told his dad he needed solitude to prepare for what would be victory over Fury.
And recounting that tough inner dialogue caused him to sob.
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After dethroning Tyson Fury to become undisputed heavyweight king, Usyk said: “He didn't come to me because the last time he came to me in my dream. I miss my father.
“I said to him, you live there, I live here, please don't come to me, I love you.
“For me it's hard when my father comes to me because I remember how my life... I know he is here.”
SunSport reporter Wally Downes Jr was the reporter to ask about his father and was among the many reporters who unashamedly welled up as Usyk explained his grief.
And just before he departed to spend time with his baby daughter, three children and wife - after NINE MONTHS in brutal camp - he read out the poem he had teased at Thursday's press conference.
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It was another ode to his father, a firm but fair man who only told his son he loved him once, over the phone after the Olympics, just hours before he died.
It read: “I'm thankful you are here and thankful you are giving me the opportunity.
“I know you are leading me the way you think is best for me.
“And, if I really deserve this, please grant me this victory
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“I am not the principle, you are the principle and this is all for you, in your glory.”
Now the former undisputed cruiserweight king and new undisputed heavyweight boss has completed his mission, he will return to his war-torn home.
But, before he hits the bars or pubs to cash in on his popularity, he will fall to his knees and surrender to the big man, in a way he could never do to Fury.
He said: “I'm thankful you are here and thankful you are giving me the opportunity.
“I know you are leading me the way you think is best for me.
“And if I really deserve this, please grant me this victory
“I am not the principle, you are the principle and this is all for you, in your glory.”
