In the world of boxing, footwork is often deemed crucial, but in Ukraine, this saying was given a unique twist recently.
On Saturday, a groundbreaking event unfolded as two Ukrainian war veterans squared off in a boxing match utilizing prosthetic legs, marking what organizers hailed as the first competitive bout of its kind featuring double-amputee fighters.
Held over three two-minute rounds at a venue in Brovary, just outside Kyiv, the fighters established a distinct rhythm. Unlike typical matches, the boxers’ movements were deliberate, each step taken with care as they sought stability.
Once they found their footing, the action resembled any standard boxing match, with jabs being thrown and short flurries of punches exchanged.
Earlier, an air raid alert had forced the audience to evacuate due to ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine. Upon their return, the crowd was uncertain how to react to the unprecedented spectacle before them. However, they soon erupted in cheers, not just for the punches landed, but in admiration for the fighters’ resilience in rising after each round.
Artem Khrebet, one of the competitors, shared his motivation during the weigh-in the day before the contest, stating, “I am boxing to remind people that, regardless of the circumstances, Ukraine and its people will persevere.” Standing confidently, Khrebet, known by his military nickname Grizzly, had lost both legs during artillery fire in Luhansk in the early stages of Russia’s large-scale invasion in 2022.
“We seek no pity. Life continues even after severe injuries like mine. Provide us the opportunities and resources, and we will take it from there,” he asserted.
Following years of conflict, Ukraine faces a significant challenge in rehabilitating its wounded veterans. The situation is dire, with estimates indicating that over 100,000 individuals have suffered limb loss since the onset of the invasion.
From ringside, former British heavyweight champion Scott Welch emphasized the role boxing could play in aiding Ukraine’s veterans. He noted that the sport has a rich history in the nation, with celebrated champions such as the Klitschko brothers and Oleksandr Usyk.
Welch, who has spent over a decade promoting adaptive boxing—often conducted from wheelchairs—stressed the importance of boxing for those adapting to life after amputation. “Ukraine has numerous veterans starting anew. Boxing fosters their confidence and mental well-being, allowing them to feel empowered and showcase their talents,” he remarked.
In addition to Khrebet and his opponent, Mykhailo Drobotenko, two other veterans participated in a wheelchair boxing match, using specialized wheelchairs brought in from the UK.
Drobotenko, a former special forces member who lost his legs to a mine, expressed his desire to challenge himself and inspire fellow veterans, saying, “I wanted to demonstrate that despite severe injuries, one can continue to live and improve.”
He described the rigorous preparation for the fight, highlighting the challenges of boxing on prosthetics, where balance and functionality differ significantly. “In boxing, much of the power derives from the legs; thus, adaptation is necessary. You come to rely more on your core,” he explained.
Both fighters conveyed that the sport served as a crucial outlet for mental relief, restoring their sense of purpose. Khrebet, who has been candid about his post-injury mental health struggles, stated, “Training helps quiet the noise. It provides focus, structure, and a semblance of normalcy. At times, you even forget about your legs. It’s therapeutic for me.”
A strong sense of camaraderie was evident between the fighters. During the weigh-in, the usual bravado was absent, yet once the match commenced, both competitors were clearly intent on winning.
Igor Faniian, the fighters’ coach and organizer of the bout, noted, “Adaptive boxing typically doesn’t focus on winning or losing, but these men were adamant about competing for victory. They sought motivation to avoid a technical draw.”
“Both are champions in their own right; only one will claim the title,” he added.
As the third round progressed, Drobotenko struggled to maintain his footing against Khrebet’s onslaught. His higher limb loss resulted in a less stable center of gravity, creating a unique challenge when boxing on prosthetics, where balance varies with each injury.
When the fight concluded, Khrebet emerged victorious, securing the title of Ukrainian veterans’ champion. In the locker room, Drobotenko expressed no desire for excuses, instead focusing on his next challenge, stating, “I’m asking for a rematch. I’m not finished with him yet.”
