Albert Rodionov, prominent Russian boxing champion, dies in a road accident
Albert Rodionov, a celebrated three-time Russian champion and European boxing champion, has died following a road incident in the Krasnodar region. Authorities confirmed the funeral will be held on December 24 in Volzhsky. Rodionov left behind a wife and a seven-year-old daughter, and his passing has been met with deep sorrow across the boxing community.
The Russian Boxing Federation extended condolences to Rodionov’s family and friends, noting that the federation would cover all funeral expenses and provide ongoing support. The organization shared these thoughts via Telegram, with Secretary General Tatyana Kiriyenko expressing solidarity from the boxing world.
The fatal accident occurred on December 21, shortly after 3 a.m., along the Krasnodar-Yeysk highway at the 18-kilometer mark. Reports indicate Rodionov’s Lada Largus struck a bump, veered into a guardrail, and burst into flames. A driver who was injured in the crash died at the scene before emergency crews arrived, according to Krasnodar region traffic police as cited by kp.ru.
The force of the impact severely damaged the vehicle, and bystanders who stopped to assist could not save the occupant. Police noted that Rodionov appeared to have violated traffic rules; an official stated that the 25-year-old driver could not maintain a safe speed while traveling from Krasnodar toward Yeysk near a road repair site and hit a concrete bumper, per REN TV.
Rodionov, who resided in the Volgograd region, had been en route home from his mother’s funeral when the crash occurred. Born in Volgograd, he began boxing at nine and earned a spot on Russia’s national team by age fourteen. Later in his career he dreamed of opening a gym to train aspiring young athletes.
Former Russian boxing team member Dmitry Shipovsky spoke with socialbites.ca about the tragedy, describing Rodionov’s death as the result of a terrible accident. Shipovsky, who had known Rodionov since their training days with the same coach, recalled him as a kind, optimistic person who always wore a smile. He emphasized Rodionov’s talent and the high level of athletic ability that helped him win three Russian titles and two European championships. Those who trained with him remember a competitor with excellent striking, timing, and reach, whose loss will be felt across the boxing community.