Russian boxing champ Valuyev joins pro-Kremlin party, may run for parliament

The "Russian Giant," Valuyev, 36, received his party membership card on Friday from the head of the United Russia branch in his hometown of St. Petersburg, Russia's second largest city.

Vadim Tulpanov said that Valuyev could participate in the party election campaign in parliament in the near future.

However, Valuyev, a former two-time WBA heavyweight champion, who lost his title in November, 2009, said he was considering his plans for the future but had "no intention to retire from sports."

In regard to his action plan as a United Russia party member, Valuyev said he planned to help develop children's sports, and in particular oversee the construction of boxing schools in St. Petersburg, Kazinform cites RIA Novosti. See www.en.rian.ru for full version.