Top Russian boxing promoter bans "ring girls" in bikinis

In their most recent show in Moscow, top Russian boxing promotion "World of Boxing' announced immediate changes in their matches. According to their CEO Andrew Ryabinsky, ring girls in bikinis would be banned in all of their programs as a sign of respect for the Muslims and other religious faiths.

Ryabinsky believed that the decision was long overdue and would make all sports spectators feel more comfortable while watching the sports.

"There are people of different cultures at our shows," Ryabinsky said. "We also have boxers who are Muslim, whom we treat with respect. A boxing show is not exactly the place where the girls have to walk in a bikini. We liked more restrained and solid format. This is a serious international sporting event, not a strip club. So we decided to change the format, so that we are all were more civilized."

Instead of fully eliminating the ring girls whose primary task is to let the audience know which round of the bout is, Ryabinsky suggested that they'd be presented in a more "tasteful" attire.

"In the US, the girls wear bikinis. What we want is for them to be beautiful, but also look modest and tasteful."

A lot of sports commentators and fans have aired their disapproval regarding the announcement. Some said that boxing is a form of entertainment where people can or cannot watch it. Others even thought that the show would be boring without the "nice chicks" to look at.

However, professional boxer Alexander Povetkin's manager wholeheartedly agrees with the decision, "Of course, I support the idea," said Vladimir Hryunov. "There is such a thing as cultural differences and priorities. The most important thing is the viewer."

Boxing Other Sports Sports Sports News 00:40