American boxer became a citizen of Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree granting Russian citizenship to American boxer Roy Jones.

According to the document posted on the Kremlin website, the application for citizenship was granted in accordance with paragraph “a” of Article 89 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, according to which the president of the country decides issues of citizenship and granting political asylum.

The famous American boxer and undisputed world champion Roy Jones applied for Russian citizenship in August of this year.

“I want to become an active member of Russian society. I love Russian society as much as it loves me. Obtaining Russian citizenship will make it easier for me to build a bridge between countries and unite them,” said the athlete, emphasizing that his decision is not related to politics, but is aimed at strengthening sports and cultural relations between the United States and Russia.

Ранее it was reported that he told Vladimir Putin about his intention to obtain citizenship at a meeting in Sevastopol. The president replied that he would help him if the future of Roy Jones Jr. would be related to work in Russia.

At the same time, producer boxer Vladimir Hryunov said that Roy Jones Jr. will retain US citizenship after receiving Russian.

Jones was a world champion in four weight categories. He is the only boxer who managed to win the championship belt in average, second middle, light heavy and heavy weights. On account of Jones 62 wins the professional ring and eight defeats.

In January, French actor Gerard Depardieu received Russian citizenship in 2013, threatening to renounce French citizenship in protest against the introduction of high taxes on super-profits.