Just over five years ago Avtandil Khurtsidze (33-2-2, 22 KOs) was one of the best boxers in the middleweight category. He had real chances to challenge the WBO belt in a fight with Billy Joe Saunders (30-1, 14 KOs), but at that moment the problems of the Georgian with the law made themselves felt.
Khurtsidze was sentenced to 10 years in prison for participating in the New York criminal group Shulaya Enterprise. A professional boxer had to play the role of a racketeer extorting money for protection and committing violence against people in conflict with the gang. "Little Mike Tyson" served over four years and was released from prison after a successful appeal by lawyers. Today, 43-year-old Khurtsidze plans to return to the professional ring. He also got the go-ahead to stay in the US.
“Hello to all my fans, I have a little news. I will be coming to Louisiana very soon, of course, I am free and can legally stay in the United States, continue my boxing career. I can't wait to meet my son and hug him, the immigration officer told me that I can go to New York, I'm happy. He keeps in touch with my Brooklyn coach Gary Stark, people from my gym and sparring partners are waiting for me. Thank God and all of you,” wrote Khurtsidze on his Facebook profile, who fought his last fight in March 2011, defeating Pole Mariusz Tsendrovsky on points.
