Boxing Semester emphasizes NFTs that aim to raise money for Ukraine

A new non-fungible token collection aims to make a significant contribution to a charitable foundation supporting Ukrainians after Russia’s invasion.

Blockasset says that the NFT release has been organized in collaboration with world heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, who himself is from Ukraine.

The sale comes ahead of Usyk’s world title defense against Anthony Joshua on August 20.

There are 2,000 one-of-a-kind NFTs with unique artwork, and they feature quirky designs by world-renowned artist Dosbrak – chronicling some of the key moments from the boxer’s undefeated professional career.

When the invasion began, Usyk had joined the Kyiv Territorial Defense Battalion, but was later given permission to leave the country so he could prepare for the fight against Joshua.

The Olympic gold medalist also hopes that this match will help raise funds for Ukraine.

Usyk said of the new collection:

“I appreciate the opportunity to associate with Blockasset, who I see as the heavyweight champions of sports NFT. I’m a huge fan of Dosbrak’s art and it’s been a pleasure to collaborate on this initiative, which I’m sure will raise a significant amount for our foundation.”

“Bringing Blockchain Communities Together”

The crypto community has played a significant role in raising funds for Ukraine, and the country’s government has opened official wallets in a plea for donations. Finland recently sold 1,800 BTC seized from drug-related crimes as well – giving $47 million to Kyiv.

And with the conflict now in its sixth month, there is no end in sight, with Ukraine urging people around the world not to forget what is happening there.

Blockasset’s CEO, Paul Evans, said:

“We are happy to help Oleksandr raise funds for the Usyk Foundation through our last drop. We are very confident that by bringing the blockchain community together, we can make a significant contribution.”

On its website, the Usyk Foundation explains that thousands of Ukrainians were left homeless and jobless, with many losing loved ones. The aim is “to meet the basic needs of the people affected by the war” – saying “every hryvnia, dollar and euro will support those who defend our country and our freedom on the front lines and behind.”

A pre-sale for these non-fungible tokens started on July 30, with the promise that those who receive the rarest NFTs from the mint will also receive a number of exclusive physical items – including gloves signed by Usyk himself, and autographed Dosbrak prints.

Fast facts about this NFT case

Enthusiasts looking to purchase one of these NFTs can use the USDC stablecoin as a payment method – and in an effort to reach as many backers as possible, Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay and Google Pay are also available. Each artwork costs $200, or 200 USDC, with a purchase limit of four NFTs during the presale.

The NFTs are going to be minted on the Solana network. They will later be available on second-hand marketplaces such as Magic Eden and OpenSea. It is hoped that reaching out to more blockchains will remove barriers to entry – and bring the entire industry together.

Dosbrak has previously collaborated with the likes of Joe Rogan, Conor McGregor, Mike Tyson, ESPN, UFC and Tyson Fury.

Blockasset is an NFT platform and ecosystem that allows the world’s biggest sports stars to release their own athletes – and they can be used to unlock exclusive benefits.