Virchis, born in Kakhovka, Kherson Oblast, Ukrainian SSR, was known as "The Hunter."
Large and powerful, he turned professional in 1999 and won his first 20 bouts with 17 knockouts, including victories over club fighters Julius Francis, Cliff Couser, and Michael Sprott.
Virchis' career was sidetracked in 2007 when he faced undefeated amateur star Ruslan Chagaev and lost a controversial majority decision.
In late 2008 Virchis lost a decision to Juan Carlos Gomez.
[1] On the night from 27 to 28 January 2022, Virchis' was found dead of suicide by hanging on Raisa Okipna Street in Kyiv.