World boxing chief Rahimov resigns

(16:26)
Beijing, March 23 (IANS) International Boxing Federation (AIBA) president Gafur Rahimov has resigned on the eve of the decisive IOC executive meeting on Sunday,

In a statement, Rahimov rejected the allegations of him having ties to organized crime and announced his resignation late on Friday, reports Xinhua news agency.

"I attest and confirm that the allegations against me were fabricated and based on politically motivated lies; I trust that the truth will prevail," he said in a statement.

"Nevertheless, I have always said that I would never put myself above Boxing, and as President, I have a duty to do everything in my power to serve our sport and our athletes," he said.

"Given the current situation, I have informed the AIBA Executive Committee of my intent to step aside as AIBA President in accordance with the AIBA Statutes and Bylaws," the statement read.

Rahimov, an Uzbek businessman who has been accused by the US authorities of having ties to organized crime, was elected the president of AIBA in November last year.