Ex-Pro Boxer Roy Jones Jr. Asks Putin For Russian Citizenship

Sometimes, professional athletes do things that are professionally bizarre, like Dennis Rodman being “friends” with Kim Jong Un of North Korea. But more recently, former American world boxing champ, Roy Jones, Jr., who is best known for his ringside persona and less than stellar rap career, asked Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship over tea.

It has been a long time coming for Jones, as his promoter has said to an R-Sports news agency that two years ago, he had some interest in obtaining a Russian passport.  And it seems to be for a reason other than boxing.

Jones, who is frequently doing business in Russia, was wished success by Putin at their meeting. After, Jones remarked how his business could see greater success if only he had a Russian passport.  Putting did not say no, however, he merely stressed that it would not be a problem if the ex boxer was willing to spend a significant part of his life in Russia. Perhaps as a side hustle, he could train fighters like himself.

The meeting was held in Crimea, the region that Russia annexed last year, where Jones will be taking part of a show.  Jones said that his prior athletic prowess and ringside actions would help bolster sport relations and build bridges between the US and Russia.