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

However, the International Boxing Association (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 suggestion.

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

“It is the most wonderful emotions I have for sure (competing under the Russian flag).” “I’m really proud to compete for my country here. I’m proud that I am from Russia,” flyweight boxer Aedma Anna, who belongs to the Altai area in Russia, mentioned.

“We did not have an opportunity to compete last year. It is so important for our country and our athletes to have an opportunity to take part in he World Championships.” The IBA’s resolution to permit athletes from Russian and Belarus to compete has led over 10 nations, together with USA, Britain, Canada and Ireland, to boycott the marquee-event During 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 match being held on the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall right here.

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

Additionally, Russian power firm Gazprom is the most important sponsor of the IBA, which has been suspended by the IOC since 2019 attributable to ongoing governance issues. The huge prize pool of Rs 20 crore has additionally been sponsored by Gazprom.

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