Ulaanbaatar, August 23, 2023 /MONTSAME/. An interview with professional boxer Kanat Islam, Olympic Bronze Medalist and Bronze Medalist of the World Championships 

-Having visited Mongolia for the first time in 2007, and now being here at the Steppe Arena, Mongolia's first indoor Olympic standard multi-purpose arena, how would you compare the transformations and developments that have taken place in Mongolia from then until now?

-Absolutely, the past fifteen years have brought about remarkable transformations. I'm genuinely thrilled to be present at the Steppe Arena, a venue that has truly left a lasting impression on me. This state-of-the-art facility is an ideal setting for the upcoming tournaments and shows that I aspire to host.

-What's the purpose of your current visit to Mongolia? 

-Our involvement spans across continents - with a mixed martial arts club in Kazakhstan and boxing promotion companies in Miami, FL., and Istanbul. Having resided in Miami for a dozen years, my primary reason for this visit is to familiarize myself with the Steppe Arena, connect with its management team, and engage with Mongolia's mixed martial arts athletes. Our plans encompass organizing exciting mixed martial arts events right here at the Steppe Arena. With three decades in the sport - twenty in amateur and ten as a professional athlete in the United States - I also teach my knowledge to athletes in Kazakhstan, trying to inspire as many as possible. 

-Where do you mostly live - in Kazakhstan or the United States? 

-I am mainly based in the USA, though I stay several months each year in Kazakhstan. This time is devoted to visiting my parents and family and mentoring athletes. 

-Your accomplishments in the sport are noteworthy. At what age did you start your career, and what do you think were the key factors that contributed to your success?

-I started my journey in this sport at the tender age of seven, and I'm still learning and growing today. A strong foundation is undoubtedly built on having a dedicated coach. My family has been an unwavering pillar of support throughout. In the United States, my coach Nelson Lopez and his son Nelson Junior, who serves as my promoter and manager, have become an integral part of my life. Their guidance has deepened my understanding of boxing, both in the ring and in the business world.

-Are there any athletes in your family? 

-Athletics run through our family's veins. My father is a renowned traditional Kazakh wrestler, while my brothers are skilled boxers. Our shared love for sports binds us together. 

-What advice would you offer to athletes starting out in this field? 

-The fundamental step is to discern whether your passion genuinely aligns with the sport. Engaging in something you don't love would equate to a punishment. For me, this sport is my essence, my livelihood. It's a labor of love. 

-Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Mongolia? 

-The deep ties between Mongolia and Kazakhstan create a favorable environment for cooperation. Given the certain Kazakh population in Mongolia, we envision holding events that unite Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Inner Mongolians of the People's Republic of China. I hold a vision to bring world-class athletes and managers from the United States to leverage this arena's potential. The ultimate goal is to make Mongolia a hub for high-level sports competitions in the region.