Gennady Golovkin isn't thinking about retiring from boxing just yet. Despite not making an official announcement about stepping away from the ring, he's now focusing on a new challenge – advocating for boxing to remain a part of the Olympic Games. In his role as the leader of Kazakhstan's National Olympic Committee, Golovkin is using his expertise and influence to support the sport's presence at future Olympic events, particularly as the 2028 Games in Los Angeles approach.

Following his last bout against Saul "Canelo" Alvarez in 2022, Golovkin has found a new passion in this advocacy work. He shared that taking a break from intense training has allowed him to embrace this important role.

"Sports are something I deeply care about; they hold a special place in my heart," he expressed. Now, Golovkin is dedicating himself to assisting athletes and fighting against corruption within sports.

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The task ahead is significant. With the International Olympic Committee no longer recognizing the International Boxing Association (IBA), there's uncertainty surrounding who will oversee the sport long term. As preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics proceed under temporary IOC management, Golovkin stresses the importance of countries working together to secure boxing's place in future Olympics.

For Golovkin, this mission holds personal significance:

"It's really difficult to picture the Olympic Games without boxing," he mentioned. He thinks that having boxing in the Olympics is crucial for amateur boxers making the leap to professional careers. Golovkin, who earned a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics, has experienced firsthand how Olympic boxing can impact an athlete's career.

With the Paris Games on the horizon, Golovkin and other leaders of national committees will meet to discuss plans for keeping boxing as part of the Olympics. Golovkin urges athletes to stay true to themselves and appreciate their Olympic journey, emphasizing the importance of the opening and closing ceremonies as well as the honor of winning a medal. His main point is clear; support the sport, uphold its values and cherish every moment of Olympic experience.

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