Mystery Unveiled: Top Sports Professor Found Dead Inside Russia’s Iconic Statue

The chancellor of Russia ’s top sports university has died inside the head of ‘Motherland Calls’, a World War II memorial that was once the tallest in the world.

Nikolai Chesnokov, aged 68, became unwell today. during an excursion to the 279-foot statue located in the southern part of Volgograd.

It is said he was with his associates from the Kremlin-backed Moscow State Academy of Physical Culture, who tried to revive him, though their efforts were unsuccessful.

Baza, a Telegram channel linked to Russian security agencies, stated that the entry into the monument was unauthorized since the statue is not accessible to the general public.

The report indicated that Chesnokov passed away due to a heart attack; however, this information hasn't been verified by the rescue services yet.

According to Russian reports, the statue contains a tiny chamber within its head, featuring a wooden floor and a bench. This space can be entered via a hatch.

The ascent involves climbing approximately 200 steps – including sections where you'll be scaling ladders – to reach the summit.

Just before his ascent, Chesnokov planned to place flowers at the eternal flame beside the memorial.

He had travelled to Volgograd from Moscow to take part in a nationwide university sports festival, Russian media reported.

The Russian Investigative Committee continues to examine his demise for any indications of wrongdoing.

Perched atop Mamayev Kurgan Hill, the massive concrete statue was revealed in 1967 to honor those who lost their lives during World War II's most brutal battle, known as the Battle of Stalingrad—the former name of what is now Volgograd.

This is where Soviet forces repelled Nazi Germany’s advance at the cost of more than 1 million casualties.

Motherland Calls was the tallest statue in the world from its completion until 1975.

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