Remembering Andriy Dziuban: A Hero Who Died for Ukraine
41-year-old Ukrainian athlete Andriy Dziuban lost his life in the fight against Russian invaders.
He died on April 20, 2025, while carrying out a combat mission in the Suzhansky district of the Kursk region, bordering Ukraine, as reported by the Sports Committee of Ukraine.
Andriy Dziuban was awarded the title of Master of Sports in the national martial art of Horting.
He achieved numerous victories and placed well in competitions in Muay Thai and kettlebell sport.
Additionally, he led a martial arts section, founded the kung fu club "Unity," and was a member of the Kremenchuk motorcycle club Ravens MC, where he was known as "Master."
In 2024, Andriy Dziuban joined the ranks of the 82nd Separate Airborne Assault Brigade, where he received the military nickname "Biker."
"He sacrificed his life for the freedom of his homeland, for our future, for the liberty of his people.
A caring son, father of two, devoted husband, reliable comrade, sincere friend, and a bright person with skilled hands and a kind heart.
The Horting community will forever remember him as the tireless Angel of Sports, a person who dedicated his life to developing strength and resilience of spirit," stated the Sports Committee of Ukraine.
How many Ukrainian athletes has Russia killed during the war?
Since the onset of the full-scale war caused by Russian aggression, 591 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have died.
Additionally, 22 members of the sports community are in Russian captivity, and the fate of another 11 remains unknown.
Besides the tragic human losses, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported significant destruction of sports infrastructure.
Damage or complete destruction of 725 sports facilities has been recorded, including 17 bases used for training Olympians, Paralympians, and Deaflympians.