Russian and Belarusian boxers on Thursday competed underneath their respective nationwide flags on the IBA Ladies’s World Championships since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine final yr. The Worldwide Olympic Committee (IOC) had issued sanctions, together with a ban on nationwide flags, symbols and anthems, in opposition to the athletes from the 2 international locations after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine final yr and Belarus’ help within the assault. Athletes from the 2 international locations had been allowed to compete in occasions however with out their nationwide flags or anthems. They took half as impartial athletes.

Nevertheless, the Worldwide Boxing Affiliation (IBA), led by Russian Umar Kremlev, final October lifted the ban on Russian and Belarusian, permitting them to take part underneath their very own flag regardless of the IOCs advice.

Yuliya Apanasovich (52kg) of Belarus and Russia’s Aedma Anna (52kg) had been the pugilists competing from the 2 international locations on the primary day of competitors.

“It’s the most fantastic feelings I’ve for certain (competing underneath the Russian flag).” “I am actually proud to compete for my nation right here. I am proud that I’m from Russia,” flyweight boxer Aedma Anna, who belongs to the Altai area in Russia, stated.

“We didn’t have a chance to compete final yr. It’s so vital for our nation and our athletes to have a chance to participate in he World Championships.” The IBA’s determination to permit athletes from Russian and Belarus to compete has led over 10 international locations, together with USA, Britain, Canada and Eire, to boycott the marquee-event Throughout Anna’s bout there was ample help for the pugilist because the supporting employees and fellow boxers cheered for her from the stands with two Russian flags.

As many as 12 Russians boxers and 6 pugilists from Belarus are competing within the event being held on the KD Jadhav Indoor Corridor right here.

The Russian and Belarusian flags had been additionally waved on the opening ceremony of the event, which was attended by Kremlev and Russian Sports activities Minister Oleg Matytsin.

Moreover, Russian power firm Gazprom is the most important sponsor of the IBA, which has been suspended by the IOC since 2019 as a result of ongoing governance issues. The large prize pool of Rs 20 crore has additionally been sponsored by Gazprom.

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