Just last week, the boxing community was reeling from the tragic death of legend Israel Vazquez. Now, another blow has struck the sport with the news of Genadij Krajevskij‘s passing. His notable matchups, including a fight with Tommy Fury, earned him widespread respect, especially in Liverpool’s boxing circuit.

Many well-known figures have joined fans in paying tribute to Krajevskij. Although the precise cause of his death remains unknown, questions have been raised about the frequency of his fights. With 76 bouts fought over a four-year career, Krajevskij fought at a staggering rate—an average of more than nine times a year. In contrast, most professional boxers fight only once a year, or occasionally more, depending on their circumstances.

Genadij Krajevskij: An Intense Schedule and the Fight for Respect

“Some really sad news to bring you this morning… It was announced over the weekend that the popular journeyman Genadij Krajevskij has sadly passed away,” read the message on iFL TV‘s Instagram post. Wishing him eternal peace, it highlighted how Krajevskij had become a regular presence at boxing events across the United Kingdom.

Beginning his career in December 2018 at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse, Genadij Krajevskij fought eight times in the following year. The pattern continued into subsequent years. In 2024 alone, he fought a remarkable ten times, with four bouts in February alone.

His last match took place in August against Levi Vaughan. The only win of his career came in February when he defeated Ryan Brooten in Oldham. However, perhaps his most notable fight was his 2020 bout against Tommy Fury.

While concerns were raised about the frequency of his fights, most followers focused on expressing their sorrow over the unexpected passing of Genadij Krajevskij. Let’s check what some of them had to say.

Fans and Fighters Reflect on His Passing

Nick Blackwell shared his condolence message. “🙏😔 Terrible news: another boxer who didn’t receive the support and help he needed when he was forced to retire from the ring 😢 So terrible thoughts with his family,” said the former English and British middleweight champion, who himself underwent a horrific ordeal following a boxing-related injury. In a separate X post, Blackwell echoed similar thoughts while adding, “MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE TO SUPPORT BOXERS ‼️ Mental Health Matters 🙏 He must have felt so alone 😔.” The same thought was reflected in the posts of many boxing fans. Many comments online pointed out a lack of mental health intervention from the UK’s boxing authorities.

On Twitter, this user raised a thought-provoking question: “Fighters should only be allowed to fight 4 times a year. 76 in 8 is crazy. I assume the brain damage played a part…” Perhaps limiting the number of bouts per year could ensure some safety for boxers.

A UK-based boxing promotion Black Country Boxing also dedicated a heartfelt post to the boxer. Their post read, “🥊With heavy hearts, we have learned the news of the passing of the ‘Baltic Bomber’ Genadij Krajevskij… Our deepest condolences go out to Genadij’s family, friends, and all who knew him. May his memory be a source of strength and comfort during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Genadij. Your fighting spirit will forever be remembered.” It will be a great loss indeed not just for the UK boxing community but also for the sport of boxing as a whole.

Another fan emphasized Krajevskij’s popularity in the boxing community. They said, “The backbone of our sport, RIP popular boxer.” Whether it was fellow fighters or event organizers, Krajevskij’s willingness to step into the ring made him a beloved figure.

The next one remembered his friendly demeanor. “❤️ gutted one of the good guys of the sport, always smiling, always chatting, had some good laughs over the years with him, thinking of his family at this sad time x,” they said. Clearly, Krajevskij’s death left a void in the boxing world. One follower wished eternal peace for Krajevskij: “R.I.P. warrior ⚒️💚.”

The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) released a statement: “The Baltic Bomber graced the away corner in the Midlands area on numerous occasions. He was always a delight to be around in and out of the ring.”

While Krajevskij’s grueling schedule may have mirrored that of past boxers, even those from previous eras typically fought no more than four to six times a year. As fans continue to process his untimely death, questions about the safety of such a demanding career remain at the forefront.

What are your thoughts? Do you believe there should be a limit on the number of fights a boxer can participate in annually?