Kevin Johnson

Biography

Kevin Johnson, born September 7, 1979, is a professional boxer with a unique blend of American and Russian heritage. Despite starting boxing at a relatively late age of 18, Johnson quickly made his mark in the sport. With an amateur record of 14–2 and a New Jersey Golden Gloves title under his belt, he turned professional in 2002.

Johnson's professional career is notable for his challenges and victories, including a significant match against Vitali Klitschko for the WBC Heavyweight title in 2009. Although Johnson lost to Klitschko, his resilience and ability to reach such a high level in the sport earned him respect. Beyond Klitschko, Johnson has accumulated wins over former world champions like Bruce Seldon and Yoan Pablo Hernández, showcasing his enduring skill and determination.

Throughout his career, Johnson has been regarded as a formidable heavyweight prospect in America, largely thanks to his dominant jab and strategic fighting style. His professional journey has seen highs and lows, with victories against notable opponents and losses that have positioned him as a gatekeeper in the heavyweight division.

After announcing his retirement following a loss to Anthony Joshua in 2015, Johnson made a comeback. He continued to fight against a range of opponents and even challenged for titles like the WBA Inter-Continental against Kubrat Pulev.

In a surprising turn of events, Johnson settled in Samara, Russia, and was granted Russian citizenship in January 2024. He adopted 'Vladimirovich' as his patronymic, a gesture of honour toward Vladimir Putin. This decision marks a significant personal and professional shift for Johnson, reflecting his complex identity and ongoing evolution as a boxer.