Russian Citizenship Granted to US Boxer Kevin Johnson – Breaking News
American boxer Kevin Johnson is now officially a Russian citizen after receiving his new identity card and passport at a ceremony in Moscow. Johnson, who became a Russian citizen with a decree signed by President Vladimir Putin, attended the ceremony wearing a T-shirt with Putin’s picture on it. In his speech, Johnson announced that he has changed his name to Kevin Vladimirovich in honor of Putin, stating that he is “100 percent Russian.”
This move comes after Johnson requested Russian citizenship in April last year, following his victory over Russian boxer Vyacheslav Datsik. Addressing Putin from the ring, Johnson expressed his desire to make Russia his permanent home and continue his boxing career there.
The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs spokesperson, Irina Volk, confirmed the news and stated that Johnson was presented with his Russian passport with an official ceremony. Johnson, a former World Boxing Council (WBC) world champion with 36 wins in 60 matches, expressed his commitment to settling in Russia with Putin’s approval.
It remains to be seen how Johnson’s move to Russia will impact his boxing career and personal life, but this development has certainly captured the attention of the boxing world.
