To Russia With Love: Kevin Vladimirovich Johnson's View of Russian Citizenship, Ties With Africa

Kevin Vladimirovich Johnson, also known as "Kingpin," had been traveling to Moscow for over 16 years before finally deciding to settle in Russia. His initial business ventures in Germany paved the way for him to explore opportunities in Moscow, which he found to be more promising and lucrative, the boxer told Sputnik Africa.

"Well, four years ago I moved to Germany for some business. The door opened up for me to come to Moscow and I was like, whoa, that's even better, you know, than what I had going on in Germany," he remarked.

The athlete revealed that he spent a year each in the Dominican Republic and Colombia, but "always wanted to live in Russia."

"I can tell you the truth, I feel honored. It's an honor. First of all, to be a citizen. Second of all, to be here. Third of all, to be able to vote. Like, 'are you hearing what I'm saying?', your opinion counts to this country," the boxer added.

One of the notable aspects of Johnson's transition to life in Russia was being granted Russian citizenship by President Vladimir Putin. Johnson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted his admiration for Putin, whom he described as sincere and genuine.

"I like our president. He's real, he's raw, he's authentic, and he's everything he says he means it [...] So, man, he's one of the greatest presidents ever graced this earth," Vladimirovich Johnson said.

In addition, the boxer emphasized the long historical ties between Russia and Africa, pointing to Russia's hospitable attitude toward foreigners, including African slaves who sought refuge in the country in the 1800s.

"Russia has and was the only country in the world, this historic fact, Russia was the only country [during] slavery [times] and let's go back up to the 1800s, Russia welcomed every foreigner, including Africans and back then, American slaves were running from America trying to get to Russia. Out of all the countries in the world, Russia was the go-to country," he explained.

Moving on to Russia-Africa relations, Johnson stressed that the relationship is strengthening today because "there is no link between Russia and a process of colonization."

"Africa is not approaching, Africa is getting back to," the boxer opined. "Russia and Africa's always been hand in hand."

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Noting that Africa today "is getting a lot of dirt off it, from people making it filthy," Johnson shared details about his initiatives to uplift communities, particularly in Senegal.

The boxer said that through his organization "We for Africa," he aims to address issues such as homelessness and lack of access to clean water, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact beyond Russian borders.

"There are many ways to help in Africa. It's like that because there are so many people making Africa suffer. It's not Africa making Africa suffer. It is people who make Africa suffer. But if anybody wants to help Africa, the best way to help them is to go and help the same way I do," Vladimirovich Johnson pointed out.

Looking ahead, the new Russian citizen revealed his "very big plans" in Russia, hinting at projects that could potentially benefit both the country and other nations.

In addition to the American boxer, President Putin signed a decree in January granting Russian citizenship to Canadian hockey player Brendan Leipsic.