Former figure skater Roman Kostomarov recently opened up about a surprising new interest—boxing. He explained that he longs to step into the ring, and he emphasizes doing so without any prosthetic aid. His goal is to box in a way that preserves his natural coordination, balancing careful technique with the physical demands of the sport. Kostomarov spoke about boxing as a demanding form of athletic control, where leg work, hand combinations, and footwork all synchronize into a single, demanding performance. He added that the activity should be pursued with full functional awareness, avoiding any risk that could compromise recovery or safety. His reflections reveal a mindset centered on capability and resilience, rather than limitation, as he considers boxing a meaningful arena to test his body and sharpen his instincts as an athlete.
In January of 2023, Kostomarov faced a life-changing setback after performing at an outdoor event. He was rushed to intensive care with pneumonia and required mechanical ventilation due to the severity of his condition. The situation deteriorated to the point where he needed resuscitation and life-sustaining support at a hospital in Kommunarka, where he underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). It was during this difficult period that both of his feet and hands were amputated as part of his medical treatment and recovery efforts. The medical team’s work in those days was instrumental to his eventual stabilization and ongoing rehabilitation, underscoring the extraordinary challenges he confronted while fighting to regain mobility and independence. (Source: Sports Express)
By the summer of 2023, Kostomarov had begun to rebuild his routine. He left the hospital in early July and, less than a month later, shared a training video incorporating prosthetic devices, signaling a continued commitment to physical activity and sport. His progress was underscored by public appearances that followed, including a participation in Ilya Averbukh’s ice show Love Letters in Sochi on August 22, where Kostomarov skated alongside his wife, Oksana. Those performances marked a turning point, illustrating his determination to reconnect with the ice and with fans after an intensely challenging period of medical care and adaptation. The collective memory of his earlier amputations and his steady return to performance became a source of inspiration for many observers of sport and resilience. (Source: Sports Express)
In reflecting on his journey, Kostomarov has spoken about the experience of amputation and the broader implications for his athletic future. He has consistently framed his path as one of perseverance, adaptation, and continued pursuit of athletic excellence. His story resonates beyond the rink, highlighting how dedication, medical advances, and a fierce personal drive can converge to reshape what is possible for high-level athletes facing life-altering events. (Source: Sports Express)