The four-time world champion retired from sports to fight against Russia. Video

Ukrainian Svitlana Gotsyk, a four-time world champion in mixed martial arts (MMA), went to the front to defend her country from the Russian invasion after the start of the full-scale invasion. The 28-year-old fighter adopted the call sign "Phoenix" and became a pilot of FPV drones.

The press service of the 79th separate airborne assault brigade released a short video interviewing the titled athlete.

What successes have you had in sports? I became a four-time world champion in MMA and boxing. I also won the world champion's belt, fought in China, Thailand, held fights in Miami, and traveled to Dubai. In general, I traveled quite a bit and saw the world thanks to sports.

Why did you trade the beaches of Miami for the trenches of Donbas? Because this is my home. My parents live here, and I was born here. I am motivated to protect my home, the future of my sisters and nephew. If I didn't, I would be betraying myself.

How did your family perceive your decision? My mom and dad found out about my decision when I had already left for the BZVP. I wrote to them: "Mom, dad, I joined the ranks of the Armed Forces and now I will fight." They are very worried, my mom is constantly worried, she is in a lot of pain because of this. But she understands that I can't do otherwise.

Did you immediately want to become an FPV drone operator or an attack aircraft pilot? I wanted to be an attack pilot. I was trained, physically able to perform all the tasks on a par with men. But thanks to my brothers-in-arms, I decided to become an FPV pilot.

What were your first impressions of flying FPV drones? At first, it seemed very difficult, a lot of things were in my head. But then I learned a little bit, got involved in the work, and it worked out. I remember the first hit - I flew through the window to the enemy. It was emotional, my comrades were happy for me.

What targets did you destroy? I destroyed equipment - armored personnel carriers, tanks, "UAZ-452". I don't really know the names of the vehicles, I see a big vehicle and I have to destroy it. I also attacked enemy points and dugouts.

Do you have any favorite hits? Yes, there was a moment when I was catching up with the infantry. I came from behind - it was a good hit.

How many units of enemy armored vehicles did you manage to destroy? I did not count. At first, I wrote it down in a notebook, but then the work became too much, and I no longer keep track. Eighth month in combat.

To what extent does the Russian RAB interfere with your work? It is very difficult to work. Sometimes the remote control just flies off. I get emotional when I realize I'm about to be attacked and the control or video disappears.

How do you cope with the lack of comfortable conditions at the front? It is a challenge for me. The worse it is, the stronger I become. It can be cold and uncomfortable, but when I fly and see the result, I forget about everything.

What motivates you? My motivation is to do my job. I rush forward, and sometimes the commander says: "Phoenix, take a break". But I came to fight, to help, because our infantry is there all the time. So I see no point in saying I'm tired or need to rest.

Do you feel that you are living your life to the fullest? Yes, and more than ever! When I go to a position, I feel adrenaline and I like it.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!