Maxim Prodan Shares Shock at the Outset of War in Ukraine
Former IBF international titleholder Maxim Prodan, currently residing near Milan, recounted his reaction to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, reflecting on his life and career amidst the ongoing conflict.
Maxim Prodan, a former holder of the IBF international title and a professional boxer originally from Bukovina, shared his experience of learning about Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Prodan left Ukraine in 2013 to pursue his professional boxing career, during which he has achieved 24 victories, suffered two defeats, and ended one bout in a draw.
Following the onset of the Russian occupation of parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in 2014, Prodan struggled to understand why people from his hometown of Chernivtsi were being mobilized. However, on February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a large-scale war against Ukraine, he was taken aback. “How did I find out about the beginning of the full-scale invasion? It was all over the news. I have always kept in touch with Ukraine. My grandmother is back home, and I have cousins there. We are from Chernivtsi. Chernivtsi is a bit far from Donbas. I knew that there had been a war since 2014. Back then, there were talks about people being taken to war. We thought, why should I go to war if I live in Chernivtsi? Donbas is over there, and we are here. That’s how we perceived it. But then, when the [Russians] moved towards Kyiv, those videos – tanks near Kyiv. It was shocking. No one could believe it…”
The war also struck Chernivtsi hard. “Almost every day, they bring in the dead. Prices have skyrocketed, and there are no jobs…” Prodan shared his feelings about the situation.
Currently, Maxim Prodan works as a driver at an Italian metal processing factory while preparing for a fight against Moldovan Ion Katarau, scheduled for April 11. In May, Prodan is set to compete in the semifinals for the Italian championship against Valerio Mantovani. This match will be a significant milestone in his career, as Prodan aims to showcase his abilities on the international stage.
Earlier reports indicated that the Ukrainian boxer was robbed in Italy, and he shared his experiences regarding the crime situation in the country. Despite all the challenges, Maxim Prodan continues to fight for his dreams and does not rest on his laurels.
The war between Russia and Ukraine continues to impact the lives of many Ukrainians, who, like Prodan, are forced to adapt to new realities. The boxer not only pursues his career but also remains in contact with his family and loved ones, supporting them during these difficult times.