Lausanne, Switzerland — Rufat Riskiyev, the 1974 world champion and Olympic silver medallist, has passed away at the age of 76. A pioneer of Uzbek boxing, he left a lasting legacy inside the ring and remained a dedicated member of the global Boxing Family throughout his life.
Riskiyev made history in 1974 by winning middleweight gold at the inaugural World Boxing Championships in Havana, Cuba, becoming the first Uzbek boxer to win a world title. Two years later, he captured an Olympic silver medal at the 1976 Games in Montreal. His achievements helped establish the USSR’s position as a powerhouse in international boxing.
IBA President Umar Kremlev said:
“Rufat Asadovich Riskiev has passed away — a legendary boxer whose name is written in golden letters in the history of Soviet and Uzbek sport. He was one of the finest middleweights of his era, the embodiment of courage and an unyielding will.
He was an idol and a role model. His legacy will live on in the hearts of millions of boxing fans and through his students. May the memory of this great champion be eternal.”
IBA Secretary General and CEO Chris Roberts OBE said:
“Rufat Riskiyev was a standout figure of a remarkable generation. Claiming gold at the inaugural World Championships in 1974 earned him a permanent place in the history of boxing. His influence reached well beyond his competitive days, as he continued to share his invaluable experience and values with younger generations. We mourn his loss and send our sincere sympathies to his family and friends.”
Riskiyev’s pioneering career and lifelong dedication to boxing will be remembered by the Boxing Family worldwide.
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