🏆 From school cleaner to world champion? 🤯 This man defied the odds and worked a miracle! 💪 Despite starting his sport at 42, he achieved an unbelievable result in record time. ⏳🔥 Want to know his inspiring story? Read all the details in the article below! 📖👇
Igor Yevtushenko from Kherson proved that dreams can come true by securing victory at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in the United Arab Emirates. His inspiring journey to the top is a true testament to dedication and perseverance.
Yevtushenko discovered jiu-jitsu a few years ago, at the age of 42, when he was searching for a way to stay fit. Prior to that, he had spent two decades as a rescue diver, a job that required intense physical activity. However, after his service was discontinued, he quickly started gaining weight.
Running didn’t provide the structured workout he was looking for, and he realized that only a disciplined sport could keep him in shape. Despite his age, he wasn’t content with simply exercising—he wanted to set ambitious goals and achieve them. From the very beginning, he knew he wanted to compete and win at the highest level.
Determined to make sports his primary focus, Yevtushenko rented a small basement space in Kherson, where he began training both himself and beginners. Alongside his training, he worked as a school janitor, with the school administration adjusting his schedule to allow him to stay in top condition. Over time, his gym gained a loyal following, with more and more people joining after hearing about Igor’s dedication.
For seven years, Yevtushenko remained committed to his goal, winning both national and European championships along the way. To ensure the best possible preparation, he sought guidance from top jiu-jitsu coaches in Ukraine, training with experienced masters in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His progress was further supported by B1 Promotion, which provided him with the necessary equipment and facilitated intensive training.
When the time came to compete in the UAE, Yevtushenko faced a financial hurdle—the trip required around $700, an amount he couldn’t afford on his own. A friend suggested sharing his story online, and within just a couple of days, generous sponsors stepped forward, covering the full cost of the trip.
In the championship, Yevtushenko triumphed over Azerbaijan’s Azad Jafarzade in the under-69 kg category, securing a gold medal. Now, his social media, once filled with sponsorship requests, proudly showcases his hard-earned victory and champion’s medal—a well-deserved reward for years of relentless effort.
