Vladimir Virchis
Vladimir Virchis (Ukrainian: Володимир Вірчіс; 18 August 1973 – 28 January 2022) was a Ukrainian professional boxer. Competing from 1999 to 2009, he held the European heavyweight title from 2006 to 2008.
| Vladimir Virchis | |
|---|---|
| Statistics | |
| Real name | Володимир Вірчіс |
| Nickname(s) | The Hunter |
| Weight(s) | Heavyweight |
| Height | 6 ft 4.5 in (1.94 m) |
| Reach | 80 in (203 cm) |
| Nationality | Ukrainian |
| Born | 18 August 1973 Kakhovka, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union |
| Died | 28 January 2022 (aged 48) Kyiv, Ukraine |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Boxing record | |
| Total fights | 28 |
| Wins | 26 |
| Wins by KO | 21 |
| Losses | 2 |
Life and career
Virchis, born in Kakhovka, Kherson Oblast, Ukrainian SSR, was known as "The Hunter." Large and powerful, he turned professional in 1999 and won his first 20 bouts with 17 knockouts, including victories over club fighters Julius Francis, Cliff Couser, and Michael Sprott.
Virchis' career was sidetracked in 2007 when he faced undefeated amateur star Ruslan Chagaev and lost a controversial majority decision. Later that same year, he rebounded by knocking out European champion, Paolo Vidoz.
In late 2008 Virchis lost a decision to Juan Carlos Gomez. Virchis had alcohol before the match, and he was drunk while fighting. After the loss a disappointed Virchis announced his retirement from the sport.[1]
On the night from 27 to 28 January 2022, Virchis' was found dead of suicide by hanging on Raisa Okipna Street in Kyiv.[2] He was 48,[2] and his body was identified by his wife.[2]
References
- Vester, Mark (25 January 2008). "Hasim Rahman To Step in, Face Vladimir Virchis?". boxingscene.com. Retrieved 5 December 2017.
- (in Ukrainian) Famous Ukrainian boxer Virchis was found hanged, Ukrayinska Pravda (28 January 2022)
External links
- Boxing record for Vladimir Virchis from BoxRec (registration required)