The Russian Boxing Federation has confirmed the tragic passing of world champion boxer Irina Sinetskaya. The three-time world and five-time European champion sadly passed away at the age of 46 on Sunday.
In addition to her impressive collection of world and European titles, Sinetskaya also clinched eleven Russian championships. She was a silver and bronze medallist at other World Championships and secured silver at the Continental Championship. The devastating news was confirmed by the Russian Boxing Federation press service.
A statement, as quoted by the Daily Star, reads: "Three-time world champion and five-time European champion Irina Sinetskaya was the most decorated athlete in women's boxing.
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"Her passing is a great loss for the entire boxing family.
"It is difficult and sad to realise that she is no longer with us.
"Our deepest condolences to Irina Vladimirovna's family and friends. Her memory will remain with us forever."
The cause of death was not disclosed in the statement.
However, a subsequent report from Russian outlet Izvestia revealed that Sinetskaya's coach, Viktor Veselov, stated she died due to a ruptured blood clot.
Sinetskaya was bestowed with the title of Honoured Master of Sports in recognition of her remarkable achievements in boxing.
She was acknowledged as one of the pioneering female boxers, participating in the inaugural Women's European Cup in 1999.
Sinetskaya primarily fought as a light welterweight but later ascended to the light heavyweight division, even taking on heavyweights.
Her last victory was clinched at the European Women's Boxing Championship in 2009, where she dominated the middleweight division.
Sinetskaya also bagged the World Women's Boxing Championship in 2006 as a light heavyweight.
She made her final appearance at the European championship in 2014, securing a fifth-place finish in the super heavyweight division.
