Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Reveals 2018 Poisoning Ordeal in Chilling Interview

Telegram founder Pavel Durov has publicly claimed he survived a poisoning attempt. The incident occurred in 2018. He revealed the harrowing experience in a recent podcast interview.

Durov stated he kept the event secret for years to maintain business focus. The alleged poisoning happened while he was raising billions for his TON blockchain project.

Durov Recounts Terrifying Symptoms and Near-Death Experience

Durov described returning to his rented townhouse. He noticed a “strange neighbour” leaving something by his door. An hour later, he was in bed when severe pain struck.

His bodily functions began shutting down rapidly. He lost his eyesight and hearing. Breathing became extremely difficult.

“The only instant in my life that I thought I was dying,” Durov told podcaster Lex Fridman. He collapsed on the floor, believing his life was over. According to Reuters, such claims require verification from official sources.

Aftermath and Lasting Impact on the Tech Billionaire

Durov woke up on the floor the next morning. He was incredibly weak and could not stand. His blood vessels were broken all over his body.

He couldn’t walk for two weeks afterward. He chose to keep the incident private from his team. He feared causing alarm during critical project development.

The experience profoundly changed his outlook on life. Durov now views every day as a “gift.” He feels he is living on “bonus time.”

The alleged poisoning of Pavel Durov highlights the extreme pressures faced by some tech leaders. His decision to speak out now sheds new light on his personal struggles. This revelation adds a dramatic chapter to the Telegram founder’s story.

Thought you’d like to know

When did the alleged Pavel Durov poisoning happen?

The incident occurred in 2018. Durov revealed it publicly in late 2025. He was developing his TON blockchain project at the time.

What were Pavel Durov’s poisoning symptoms?

He experienced acute pain throughout his body. He lost his eyesight and hearing. He also had severe difficulty breathing.

Why did Pavel Durov keep the poisoning secret?

He wanted to focus on his business priorities. He feared worrying his team during a crucial development phase. The TON project had raised $1.7 billion.

How did the poisoning change Durov’s life perspective?

He now feels he lives on “bonus time.” Every new day feels like a gift. The experience made him feel more free.

Was there an investigation into the poisoning claim?

Durov has not mentioned any official investigation. He did not specify if he reported it to authorities. The claims remain his personal account.