The Russian Boxing Federation confirmed the death of world champion Irina Sinetskaya at age 46 on Sunday. She won three world titles, five European championships, and eleven Russian national championships. She also earned silver and bronze at other World Championships and a silver at the Continental Championship.
Boxing Community Mourns
The federation described Sinetskaya as the most decorated female boxer and expressed condolences to her family and friends. “Her memory will remain with us forever,” the statement said. Russian outlet Izvestia reported her coach, Viktor Veselov, revealed she died from a ruptured blood clot.
Career and Legacy
Sinetskaya earned the title of Honoured Master of Sports for her achievements. She helped pioneer women’s boxing, competing in the first Women’s European Cup in 1999. She fought primarily at light welterweight, later moving to light heavyweight and occasionally facing heavyweights. Her last recorded victory came in 2009 at the European Women’s Boxing Championship, competing as a middleweight.
