Lausanne, Switzerland – The International Boxing Association (IBA) celebrates a significant moment for the sport as IBA President Umar Kremlev was bestowed with the Order of Friendship by President Vladimir Putin.

The award recognises Mr Kremlev’s contribution to international sport and his commitment to the global boxing family. During the ceremony, the Russian President praised the IBA’s resilience in supporting athletes despite political pressures.

IBA President stated that his award is a tribute to the entire boxing family. It recognises the collective effort of every coach, official, and athlete who works to keep our sport strong and independent. 

Alongside to the recognition of the IBA President, several prominent figures and athletes within the sport were honoured for their achievements including the 2025 IBA World Boxing Championships:

World-renowned boxer Murat Gassiev, along with 2025 World Boxing Champions and medallists including Vsevolod Shumkov, Ilya Popov, Ismail Mutsolgov, Dzhambulat Bizhamov, Sharabutdin Ataev, David Surov, Anastasia Shamonova, Nune Asatryan, Elena Gapeshina and Saltanat Medenova, Alexander Besputin, Secretary General of the Russian Boxing Federation were awarded the Medal of the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland” of the Second degree and Muslim Gadzhimagomedov with the Order of Friendship. 

IBA CEO Chris Roberts OBE:

“The IBA is incredibly proud to see the presentation of the Order of Friendship to our President, which serves as a significant testament to his leadership and our unwavering commitment to our athletes. 

This high-level recognition of our leadership and athletes reflects the vital work the IBA performs on a daily basis to create a professional, fair, and rewarding environment for boxers worldwide. By ensuring our champions are celebrated at the highest levels of state, we continue to demonstrate that the IBA is the true home of boxing, dedicated to the growth and protection of our sport and its people.”