Ukraine criticized Chechen boxer for words in support of Kadyrov

The Ukrainian Embassy in Canada was outraged by the speech of Russian boxer Artur Beterbiev in support of the head of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov.

“We are shocked that Artur Beterbiev glorifies Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov in his speech after a boxing fight in Canada. Another proof that there is no political neutrality of Russian athletes,” says a message on the official website of the diplomatic mission.

Diplomats recalled that Kadyrov is under sanctions from Canada, as well as the United States, Great Britain and the European Union, and supports Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Beterbiev defeated Briton Callum Smith by technical knockout on January 14. The fight took place in Quebec, Canada. In 2013, the athlete and his family moved to Canada. According to media reports, he could obtain Canadian citizenship.