The ESPYS take place in Los Angeles and will air today, July 20 at 8 p.m. ET. Klitschko will be receiving the award during a time in which he is a key figure in the fight against Russian aggression in Ukraine. 

“It is a great honor for me to receive this award,” said Klitschko in a release. “I am convinced that this is a recognition of the courage and inviolability of the Ukrainian people, who have been bravely resisting the Russian aggressor for more than thee months. This is an award for everyone who defends the independence and freedom of Ukraine.”

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Who is Vitali Klitschko?

Vitali, 50, was a silver medalist in the 1995 World Championships. He also fought competitively in kickboxing. He made his pro boxing debut in ‘96. A former European heavyweight champion, Vitali attempted but failed to take the WBC, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles from Lennox Lewis in 2003. Following that loss, he went on a thirteen-fight win streak. Vitali beat Corrie Sanders in ‘04 for the WBC and The Ring heavyweight titles.

He retired after 2004 but returned in ‘08, beating Samuel Peter for the WBC title. Vitali defended the belt nine times, retiring as champion in ‘12 following a win against Manuel Charr. “Dr. Ironfist” would then focus on politics, running for multiple positions. He had thoughts of running for president of Ukraine. He ended up becoming mayor of Kyiv in ‘14.

Russian military forces entered Ukraine in February, prompting Vitali and the Ukrainian government to declare a state of emergency for the Ukrainian capital. He and his brother Wladimir, another heavyweight champion, sent out a message of unity to the people of Ukraine. They have since been fighting with the people against Russia. 

“Vitali’s poise and strength as his city and country faces unfathomable tests have far surpassed the incredible resolve he demonstrated as one of boxing’s top heavyweight champions,” said Rob King, Executive Editor-At-Large ESPN Content. “His commitment to the people of Ukraine has been a global inspiration, and his bravery is a prime example of the resilience of the human spirit. It is our privilege to bestow him with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.”

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What is the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage?

The award, created in 1993, is presented annually to individuals whose contributions go beyond the sports world. Per ESPN, “recipients reflect the spirit of Arthur Ashe, possessing strength in the face of adversity, courage in the face of peril, and the willingness to stand up for their beliefs no matter what the cost.” 

Ashe, a tennis player, was the first African American to win a singles title at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. He died from AIDS-related pneumonia in 1993. Before his death, he created the Arthur Ashe Foundation for the Defeat of AIDS. Ashe was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom 

Who has won the Arthur Ashe Award? 

The first recipient of the award was Jim Valvano, a college basketball player, coach, and broadcaster. He suffered from cancer when he won it and formed the V Foundation. His speech during the ESPYS is considered one of the most legendary speeches and moments in sports and entertainment. He died two months after receiving the award. 

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Here is a complete list of winners of the award: