The memory of Andrei Borzenko honored at the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Tashkent
May 12th, 2023 / Tashkent 2023
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has announced that the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Tashkent is dedicated to Andrei Borzenko, a Soviet boxer and two-time heavyweight champion of the Uzbek SSR. Borzenko was not only a talented boxer and a master of sports but also an honored coach and a referee from Uzbekistan. The IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships takes place from 30 April to 14 May, and it features some exciting events in honor of Borzenko.
One of the highlights of the event was the screening of the documentary film “Borzenko: The Ring Behind Barbed Wire” directed by Alexey Degtyarev and Elena Moshtal. The film tells the story of Borzenko’s life and his achievements in the ring. The screening attracted a lot of attention from boxing fans and championships participants.
On Friday, the laying of the foundation stone ceremony of the Borzenko monument took place in the territory of Uzbek State University of Physical Culture and Sports. The monument is expected to become a symbol of inspiration for future generations of boxers in Uzbekistan and abroad.
Later on, IBA President Umar Kremlev met with young people studying at the Uzbek State University of Physical Culture and Sports. He gifted boxing equipment to every participant of the meeting. IBA President was designated an Honorary Professor of the University.
The Memorandum of understanding was signed between IBA and the University. The parties agreed to cooperate in terms of development of boxing, exchange knowledges and science studies between the parties.
A special “Will to Win” trophy named after Borzenko will be awarded to 13 boxers from the World Championships representing each weight category who showed strong character, determination, confidence, passion, focus and patience, endurance, self-discipline, quick thinking, courage, and will to win during their fights.
‘In each area of life, this is very important to remember and honor the history. Our sport goes back years, and we should not forget those, who helped boxing to excel with their achievements. Andrey Borzenko is one of those athletes who showed amazing personal qualities and strong character during tough times,’ President Kremlev said.
The IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Tashkent is featuring hundreds of boxers from 107 nations fighting for glory and historical prize money fund of $5.2 million USD. Only 13 of them will be announced winners on 13-14 May at Humo arena in front of the passionate crowd.
