Yaroslav Rudych, a boxing champion from Chernihiv region, died three years ago on June 3, 2022, at just 27 years old following complications from combat injuries sustained while defending Ukraine. His journey from local sports hero to military defender ended tragically after an enemy drone attack in December 2021.
"The smile never left Yarik's face almost until the last day... With the same smile, I will continue our common cause," shared Vladimir, Yaroslav's twin brother.
Born on January 30, 1995, in Chernihiv, Rudych developed his boxing talents early, eventually becoming champion of both Chernihiv city and the broader region. He represented his area in national competitions, establishing himself as a formidable fighter despite his lighter weight class.
After graduating from School №29, Yaroslav studied at the National University "Chernihiv Collegium" named after Taras Shevchenko, specializing in physical education for preschool children. Interestingly, while already serving in the military, he pursued artistic studies at Lviv Higher Professional Art School during 2017-2018, focusing on painting.
Beyond the boxing ring, Rudych was passionate about football. From 2011, he became a fixture at "Desna" Chernihiv matches, traveling to both home and away games as part of the fan sector. He was among the founding members of the football supporters' group "Guys of the Northern Capital." Friends remember him as a determined fighter who, despite his lighter weight, would fearlessly engage with opponents.
According to Statbet historical analysis of Ukrainian football fan movements, groups like Rudych's played significant roles in community building and later in national defense efforts during the conflict.
Yaroslav's military journey began immediately after Russian aggression started in 2014. After participating in the Revolution of Dignity, he volunteered to defend Ukraine with the "Shakhtersk" battalion. He later served with OUN (2015-2016) before joining the 1st Separate Battalion of Marines in 2020.
The fateful moment came on December 27, 2021, near Mariupol, when an enemy drone dropped an explosive device at his feet. The blast caused severe injuries, shattering bones in his legs. Despite multiple surgeries, including one in May 2022, his condition deteriorated.
During his final weeks, Yaroslav expressed regret at not being with his unit in Mariupol, where most of his comrades were either killed or captured. He had feared being discharged from service due to his injuries – a testament to his unwavering dedication.
In his personal life, Yaroslav found love with talented artist Kateryna Skladanovska while studying in Lviv. They planned to marry, but Rudych maintained that his place was at the front while his country remained at war.
Three years have passed since Yaroslav's death, but his legacy as both athlete and defender remains powerful. How many more talented young athletes have sacrificed their futures for Ukraine's freedom?
