Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov protests against referees' unfair decision

Uzbek boxer Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov has voiced his dissatisfaction with the outcome of his bout against Russian fighter Vsevolod Shumkov.

The AIBA boxing event took place on September 28, 2024, at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Mirzakhalilov expressed his frustration with the result, stating he was disappointed by the referees' decisions. He requested a rematch from Umar Kremlyov, the president of the International Boxing Association, referring to Kremlyov as a "fair leader" in the boxing world. Kremlyov also commented on the boxer’s Instagram page regarding the organization of the fight.

"I had a great fight. My fans around the world said I won. However, the judges unanimously declared Shumkov the winner. I ask for a rematch in a neutral location," said Mirzakhalilov.

For context, Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov competes in the lightweight and super featherweight divisions. He became a world champion in 2019 and is also a silver medalist at the Asian Games, as well as an Asian champion and Asian amateur champion.

As a reminder, in November 2023, Mirzakhalilov won a fight against Chinese boxer Runky Joe during a professional boxing event held at "Humo Arena" in Tashkent. The intense 8-round match was decided by the referees.