Published
06/29/2026, 16:19The legendary American boxer Evander Holyfield is considering opening his own boxing academy in Kyrgyzstan. These plans are set to be discussed during the athlete’s visit to the country.
It is envisaged that the academy will train young boxers, develop a coaching programme and facilitate the exchange of expertise with international specialists. The location of the future academy and the format of the collaboration will also be discussed.
Evander Holyfield is regarded as one of the greatest boxers in the history of world sport. He is the only four-time world heavyweight champion, as well as a former undisputed world champion in the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. During his professional career, Holyfield secured victories over such renowned opponents as George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Buster Douglas and Mike Tyson. One of the most famous moments in world boxing was his 1997 rematch with Tyson, which went down in history as the ‘bite-off-the-ear fight’.
In addition, whilst Holyfield is in Kyrgyzstan, filming is scheduled to take place for part of a documentary about his life and sporting career. Some scenes from the forthcoming film will be shot at Issyk-Kul.
The legendary champion’s visit coincides with an international professional boxing gala, which will take place on 3 July in Bishkek at the ‘Jashtyk Arena’. The tournament will feature boxers from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Thailand and Cuba. The programme features eight professional bouts, including two title fights.
The organisers note that hosting the international tournament and the possible opening of the academy could form part of a wider effort to develop professional boxing in Kyrgyzstan and create new opportunities for young athletes.
