Ukrainian boxer refused UK visa
April 23 2009 by Robbie Ragless
Top Ukrainian boxer, Andreas Kotelnik, was expected at a pre-fight press conference in London on Tuesday but was not able to attend because his UK visa application had been rejected by UK immigration authorities.
The fighter is due to meet Britain’s Amir Khan in the ring on 27 June and was meant to be appearing at the press conference ahead of the fight. Instead, he was stranded in Dusseldorf where he is based.
The light-welterweight champion said he will turn his frustration at not being allowed into the UK onto Khan when he meets him for the fight in the summer, “I will knock Amir Khan out on June 27 as I am so annoyed right now."
Amir Khan’s promoter, Frank Warren, shared the boxer’s frustrations, ”it is easy to come into the country if you haven't got a visa and you haven't got a passport. It is the easy way to get in. You get a flat, sign on and do what you like. But if you are a sportsman and a world champion it is more difficult.” Warren added, "the whole process is ridiculous. This night will create work for people in this country. It is great for the country. It is a high-profile event being shown around the world. What are we in this position for?”
Kotelnik is the latest in a line sportsmen who have had trouble gaining visa to work in the UK, after the working visa rules were changed.
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