Alexander Povetkin, the Russian professional boxer, has appointed Georgy Filimonov as deputy head of the Vologda region. The move was disclosed by Interfax and marks a notable transition for the athlete into regional administration.
The official outlined that Povetkin will lead initiatives promoting a healthy lifestyle across the population and will take charge of patriotic education aimed at the younger generation. He will also supervise the implementation of the Youth of Russia national project, a program designed to engage youth in civic and social activities while fostering national pride and participation in community life.
Povetkin last appeared in the ring on March 28, 2021, when he faced British boxer Dillian Whyte during the Battle on the Rock event held in Gibraltar. Whyte secured a technical knockout victory in the fourth round, which positioned him as the interim WBC heavyweight champion following the bout.
In October 2023, Povetkin attracted criticism after saying his support was limited to Russian fighters and that he did not know Islam Makhachev, a statement that drew public scrutiny and debate about his international boxing perspective and public stance.
Earlier reports noted that Mikhail Degtyarev had approved the appointment of Russia’s new Minister of Sports, signaling broader leadership changes in the country’s sports governance landscape.