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Why innocent Russian athletes like Dmitry Bivol should be allowed to compete amid Ukraine invasion

LAS VEGAS — Vladimir Putin will be remembered by history as a thug and a tyrant, and perhaps one of the leading examples of the worst of humanity. The Russian president has repeatedly shown complete indifference for human life and international law.

Wladimir Klitschko is among the best we have to offer as a people. He’s smart, compassionate, caring and courageous. His leadership before and during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been remarkable and has been a reason why Ukraine has defended itself so strongly. He is heroic in every sense of the word.

Yet, Klitschko’s idea to not allow Russian athletes to compete on the world stage during Russia’s invasion of his country is misguided and would have zero impact.