Feature published on boxer Islam Timurziev's battle with brain cancer

A lengthy feature article has been published about Islam Timurziev, a promising Russian boxer whose career and life were cut short by brain cancer. Timurziev showed exceptional talent early, knocking down Alexander Povetkin in his debut at the Russian Championship at age 19, and defeating Alexey Lezin at 21 to win the national title. At 22, after a tough bout with Odlanier Solis at the World Cup, doctors discovered a brain tumor. Despite medical warnings, Timurziev continued competing, becoming European champion in 2006 and World Championship medalist in 2007, though he couldn't fight in the semifinal due to illness and rumors of poisoning. He competed at the 2008 Olympics despite doctors' advice, as Olympic gold meant more to him than his health. Complications arose in fall 2008, requiring emergency surgery in Moscow for glioblastoma. He began losing his vision in 2012 and passed away in August 2015 at age 32. The article includes interviews with his parents, brother Vakha, coach Musa Kartoev, and others, plus previously unreleased fight footage from 2003-2004.