A Russian tournament honored an occupant eliminated in Ukraine

Armlifting Competition Held in Memory of Maksym Volin

According to Главком: A tournament dedicated to the memory of Maksym Volin, a Russian soldier killed in Ukraine, took place on May 16, 2026, at the 'Sila' sports club in Saint Petersburg. Volin, born on April 21, 1987, had notable athletic achievements, including being a Master of Sports in the two-handed block pull and Saxon bar pull according to the Russian ArmLifting Union (WAO), as well as a Master of Sports in the Russian brick pull under the National Powerlifting Association. This event serves as a somber reminder of how the conflict in Ukraine impacts even the sports community.

In addition, he served as a regional category judge for the World ArmLifting Association (WAA).

Starting in 2022, Volin took part in Russia's war against Ukraine as a drone operator. In January 2026, he was hospitalized in occupied Luhansk, where preliminary reports indicate he died from blood loss. A farewell ceremony was held on February 6, 2026. The tournament was a symbolic tribute to an athlete who lost his life during the ongoing conflict.

Elimination of Georgiy Kamalov

Another casualty worth noting is Georgiy Kamalov, a 46-year-old football coach who was also eliminated. Kamalov played for the team 'Era' Vladivostok from 2003 to 2011, but his playing career ended due to injury, prompting a shift to coaching. He started his coaching journey within the 'Era' system and in recent years worked with the football club 'Anri', leading them to the level of the Russian Cup.

Commenting on the situation, Dmytro Nizovtsev remarked:

“He was up to his ears in debt. That's why he signed a contract. He paid it off after receiving a payout. But then he had to go fight. And die. At the age of 46. Such is the grim reality. While some are waiting for the Champions League and the FIFA World Cup, a football coach from the Russian hinterland went and got himself killed.” - Dmytro Nizovtsev

Both cases highlight the tragic toll of war and its impact on the lives of athletes and coaches.

These events underscore how war affects individuals who chose sports as their profession. The losses of Maksym Volin and Georgiy Kamalov reflect not only personal tragedies but also a broader picture where the conflict has profound consequences across all areas of life, including sports. The tournament held in Volin's honor serves as a reminder of these losses and the importance of remembering those who have died in the war.

The impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine extends beyond the battlefield, as seen in various sporting events honoring those who have fallen. A recent wrestling tournament in Russia paid tribute to deceased soldiers, highlighting the somber reality faced by athletes and their communities amidst the war. Such events serve as a reminder of the personal sacrifices made in the name of duty and sport.