Ukrainian Rostislav Lobenko providing inspiration at Porthcawl and Pyle ABC

“This man shows how universal the language of boxing is!” 

These are the words of Porthcawl and Pyle ABC’s Tim Yorke, talking about 33-year-old Rostislav Lobenko. 

Without a word of English, the Ukrainian left his homeland to find safety in Wales and, with an extensive background in boxing, found further sanctuary at Tim’s gym. 

Before the outbreak of the war, Rostislav has fought since his youth and has been crowned regional champion in boxing and kickboxing in Ukraine multiple times. 

He has been welcomed to Porthcawl and Pyle ABC with open arms and has been training with the gym for around a month, communicating and forming fantastic relationships through Google Translate as well as our sport. 

“I feel wonderful,” confirmed Rostislav. “I’m happy with everyone and I’m very pleased that I’m back boxing and doing what I love with my new family. 

“This is my second wind, it’s like I’ve been born again! I’m like the boy I was at 15 years old, and I still want to prove that I can reach the Olympics!” 

Rostislav’s humbling story, polite and respectful demeanour, and supportive character have all contributed to him settling in so well at the gym. 

This has also been aided by his passion and ability in the ring, where he has had no trouble communicating through the sport of boxing. 

The 33-year-old is visibly technically gifted when donning his gloves and is always on hand to encourage and coach the club’s boxers through technical sparring. His elite ability is not only a pleasure to watch but a true asset for Porthcawl and Pyle ABC, who have been delighted to host him. 

“We, as a club, are very inclusive and like to give everyone who walks through the doors an opportunity; regardless of race, religion or ability,” Tim told Welsh Boxing. 

“Upon his arrival, it was clear Rostislav didn’t know anyone and his integration into the local community was to be through boxing, as it was such a big part of his identity back home; it’s amazing to see how well he’s settled in and loving life at Porthcawl and Pyle ABC!” 

It’s fantastic to see boxing prove its ability to unite, not only facilitating a brilliant relationship between Rostislav and the club but also transcending borders in this powerful story.  

“Our gym is a place of sanctuary where all troubles are left at the door and everyone is equal,” confirmed Tom. “It’s amazing to see how quickly Rostislav has settled in and made friends, who he now refers to as family – it’s very endearing to see and we hope he continues to enjoy his time with us. 

 “Given his history in the sport and the fact he is such a talented individual, it’s great to see him back in a boxing gym,” continued Tim. “We love seeing him train and enjoy the sport he loves! 

“Being in our gym has helped him build a new social circle with our members, who’ve all built massive respect for him due his honest, respectful and helpful nature. 

“Rostislav is setting targets for himself to achieve. We intend on helping him with the support of Welsh Boxing. 

“Who knows? We may even see him competing on the Welsh Boxing circuit soon! 

“We’re just so glad he found us,” concluded Tim, “and we look forward to continuing to support him as he’s a pleasure to have in the gym.”