The former heavyweight boxing champion – Wladimir Klitschko – launched a non-fungible token collection to aid his war-hit homeland Ukraine. The initiative comes after a partnership with the artist WhIsBe as all proceeds will go to Red Cross Ukraine and UNICEF.
NFTs Supporting Ukraine’s Defense
Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” in Ukraine seems nowhere near its end, which caused many countries to declare economic war on Russia. At the same time, prominent individuals introduced initiatives that could support the Ukrainian resistance, with the latest example coming from the Olympic champion and boxing icon – Wladimir Klitschko.
The 45-year-old Ukrainian, nicknamed “Dr. Steelhammer,” released an NFT collection through a collaboration with the artist WhIsBe. The digital collectibles will be available to mint in a tiered pricing model of $100, $1,000, and $10,000 as funds from the sales will go directly to Ukraine in its current defense against the Russian troops.
The NFT marketplace to host the drop will be the leader in the field – OpenSea, while the sale will last for three weeks, starting today (March 9).
Klitschko described the development as a “superb support at the service of people who suffer.” He also added that “art can be beautiful on many levels when used to serve humanity. “
“Dr. Steelhammer” is one of the longest-reigning heavyweight world champions in the history of boxing. He and his older brother Vitali (another legendary boxer and the mayor of Kyiv) are currently part of the capital’s defense against the surrounding Russian forces.
Crypto Donations Are Pouring to Ukraine
Digital assets have become a key feature in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as numerous companies, exchanges, and individuals donated cryptocurrencies to the invaded country.
Such contributions have already surpassed $50 million as initially, the accepted assets were Bitcoin, Ether, and Tether. Shortly after, Polkadot’s Founder – Gavin Wood – sent $5 million worth of DOT and thus added the native token of his crypto project to the initiative.
Last week, Mykhailo Fedorov – Vice PM and Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine – announced that people could also support the country’s defense by making Dogecoin and Solana donations.
The politician even urged Elon Musk (arguably the most prominent DOGE owner) to aid his nation’s efforts.
