Ukrainian armwrestling master of sport killed in action in Donetsk region

The Sports Committee of Ukraine announced this on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

Hladkyi was originally from the village of Davydiv in the Lviv region. He entered the sport in 2021. Through hard work, discipline, and strong character, he earned the title of Master of Sport of Ukraine in a short time, became a multiple medalist at national championships and cups, and represented Ukraine at international competitions.

Fellow athletes and coaches knew him as a principled, determined, and highly dedicated individual.

He joined the Ukrainian army from the first days of Russia's full-scale invasion as part of the 45th Artillery Brigade. He progressed from rifleman in a security company and sniper to commander of an artillery platoon, carrying out combat missions in the Zaporizhzhia, Bakhmut, and Lyman sectors, and taking part in battles for Klishchiivka, Siversk, and Chasiv Yar. As a junior sergeant, he personally commanded crews that destroyed Russian forces and their equipment.

Hladkyi was awarded the Order "For Courage" (3rd Class), the Medal "For Military Service to Ukraine," the Ministry of Defense distinction "Cross of the Missile Forces and Artillery," as well as several other honors.

Even during the war, he did not leave sport – training whenever possible, returning to competitions, and continuing to win prizes. He showed the same confidence both on the sports arena and on the frontline.

The serviceman was killed on May 5 while performing a combat mission near the village of Sydorove in the Donetsk region. He was 28 years old.

"Ihor Hladkyi will be remembered as a strong athlete, a professional serviceman, a reliable comrade, and a person who honestly did his work – until the very end," the committee said.

Photo: Sports Committee of Ukraine / Facebook