Former boxer Vitali Klitschko attacked by protesters in one-man RAMPAGE to stop riots
The 42-year-old, now a political leader in Ukraine, moved in to stop the riots in the capital of Kiev, before being targeted himself.
Activists, many wearing gas masks and hard hats, threw stun grenades, sticks and fireworks as the demonstration erupted.
In a Hulk-like mode, former heavyweight champion is seen in photos right in the mix of everything, grabbing protesters by the throat as he is sprayed with powder.
The demonstration against President Viktor Yanukovych, which was originally meant to be peaceful, is the latest batch of protests to emerge since ties with the country and Russia became closer two months ago.
Klitschko, who is considered the strongest opposition challenger to Mr Yanukovych, said: "Ukraine is united as never before in its struggle against those in power today, in its determination not to allow a dictatorship.
"Yanukovich and his henchmen want to steal our country."
It is believed at least 30 law enforcers have been injured in the clashes and 4 of them are in serious condition.
While water cannons have been fired at the 10,000 protesters in the -8c temperatures and tear gas has been used to push them back.
Last week, Mr Yanukovych put forward a list of laws that restrict the right of Ukrainians to protest, using heavy jail sentences to try and silence the masses.
But activists took to the street to defy the new guidelines.
The government banned the taking part in large "disorder" and the wearing face masks or hard hats during these demonstrations.
In response, protesters wore saucepans and colanders on their heads to rebel.
