Volodymyr Mandziuk — a Ukrainian boxer, Special Operations Forces fighter, a man with the heart of a warrior and the soul of an athlete — was killed in action fighting against Russian occupiers.
His life was cut short on April 9, 2025, during a combat mission near the village of Oleksiivka in the Sumy region. He was posthumously awarded the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s distinction, the “Golden Cross.”
Volodymyr was born in Ternopil region and grew up in the town of Druzhba. He honed his athletic skills at the Ring Boxing Club and the Ivano-Frankivsk College of Physical Education. A multiple-time champion and medalist of national and international tournaments, he claimed the title of Ukrainian Student Champion in 2018 and earned the title of Master of Sport of Ukraine.
“Volodymyr was genuine — honest, dependable, and sincere. He loved life, dreamed big, set high goals, and achieved remarkable success. His friends respected him, his comrades valued him — he was a role model of inner strength for young people,” stated the Ukrainian Boxing Association.
He never had the chance to start a family — defending his homeland became the sacred duty for which he gave his life. He is survived by his mother, father, and brother.
A farewell ceremony for Volodymyr Mandziuk was held on April 13, 2025, in Ternopil region. He was laid to rest in his hometown of Druzhba, in the Mykulynetska community.
Ukraine has lost one of its finest sons. But his name will live on — in the history of Ukrainian boxing, in the memory of his comrades, and in the hearts of all Ukrainians.
Eternal glory to the Hero!