The skating world is still reeling from the news of the sudden demise of Kazahk figure skater and Winter Olympics Bronze Medalist Denis Ten, who was stabbed to death in the streets of Almaty after foiling an attempted theft. He was only 25 years old.

Denis shares a special association with the anime series “Yuri!!! ON ICE“, since he was the basis for Otabek Altin — who was likewise a Kazahk figure skater, and one of the show’s most popular characters. He has also publicly supported the series, often tweeting about it on social media.

The staff of “Yuri!!! ON ICE” — including Director Saya Yamamoto, Writer Mitsurou Kubo, Character Designer Tadashi Hiramatsu, and Key Animator Eiji Abiko gave tribute to the courageous young skater, who touched the hearts of fans not just in Kazahkstan but also all over the world.

Director Sayo Yamamoto

Writer Mitsurou Kubo

Character Designer Tadashi Hiramatsu

Key Animator Eiji Abiko

Requiesce in pace, Denis. You will be missed.