A American boxer named Kevin Johnson has expressed a desire to obtain Russian citizenship, explaining that his decision to change his name in honor of Vladimir Putin was not shaped by public criticism. The remarks were relayed by a news agency.
Johnson emphasized that personal motivation comes from within. He said,
“This moment in my chest is what fuels me the most. If someone tries to tell me I’m mistaken or misguided, let them say it. If they disagree with the path I’ve chosen, that’s their right to think so. Yet other people’s opinions don’t affect me. What matters most are the words and support of my family and close friends, and they stand firmly behind my decision.”
Standing at 43 years old, the fighter has compiled a career record of 35 wins in 58 professional bouts. His journey in the ring has seen him compete against a range of notable opponents and demonstrate resilience in the face of scrutiny.
Earlier in his career, a notable matchup featured a three-round contest against Vyacheslav Datsik, a prominent Russian competitor. The bout concluded with Johnson securing the victory through a decision issued by the judging panel after the full distance, aligning with the rules of the sport. In the near future, Johnson was slated to confront Mark Petrovsky, a rising star who held a world championship title in 2021, in a planned contest set to take place in Moscow.
Johnson has also addressed the broader implications of his citizenship choice, reaffirming that his decision is rooted in family considerations and personal conviction rather than external pressures or policy debates. He stressed that his family’s support remains the most important factor guiding his career and life moves, a sentiment shared by many athletes who balance national identity with professional aspirations.
Throughout this phase of his career, Johnson has consistently prioritized training discipline, strategic preparation, and the mental resilience required to compete at high levels. His story illustrates how athletes navigate identity, allegiance, and opportunity while pursuing success inside the ring and within the broader international sports arena. The ongoing dialogue around his choices highlights the complex relationship between personal symbolism, national representation, and the evolving nature of modern boxing on the global stage.