Alexander Povetkin, a former world boxing champion, shares memories on his Ushatayka YouTube channel about the bout with Ukrainian heavyweight star Vladimir Klitschko. In Povetkin’s own recount, a telling moment stands out: a roar from the crowd that seemed to call for an unlikely strike on the air. He recalls a spectator’s shout, a phrase that translated roughly as a ruthless exhortation. Povetkin pauses on the memory, noting that the voice belonged to someone he recognizes, though he does not name the individual. The moment remains a reminder of how electric a live arena can be, where every cheer can feel like a wager on fate. And yet, Povetkin emphasizes that this particular chant was not something he could or would repeat, underscoring the human aspect that often gets lost in the glare of headlines. [Citation: Povetkin interview archive]
The clash between Povetkin and Klitschko occurred in Moscow in October 2013. Klitschko, the Ukrainian challenger who would go on to reign as a unified heavyweight champion, secured a unanimous decision over Povetkin. At the time, Klitschko defended multiple major world titles—sanctioned by the IBF, WBA Super, IBO, and WBO—highlighting the level of competition Povetkin faced on that night. The bout is remembered not only for its technical aspects but also for the strategic chess match between two seasoned veterans at the peak of their powers. [Citation: Boxing Records 2013 Moscow bout]
Povetkin’s most recent high-profile outing occurred on March 28, 2021, when he fought Briton Dillian Whyte during the Gibraltar-hosted “Battle on the Rock” event. The match ended with a technical knockout in the fourth round, awarding Whyte a decisive victory. That night marked a significant chapter in Povetkin’s career as he navigated a transition phase in a crowded heavyweight landscape, facing a younger, hungry contender who was eager to make a statement on a world stage. [Citation: 2021 Gibraltar fight results]
Separately, a public moment involving a different figure named Milokhin has circulated in relation to Russian public sentiment. Milokhin had reportedly dismissed a hypothetical challenge with the phrase “Go into battle,” paired with a performance piece that asserted a national identity. The incident is often cited in discussions about cultural expression within boxing communities and the broader world of combat sports, illustrating how public narratives can intersect with sport and media. [Citation: Social media coverage]