Ahmad Nategh Nouri, former president of the Iran Boxing Federation, has died at the age of 89 following a long illness.
Nategh Nouri led Iran’s Boxing Federation for 28 years, playing a major role in the development and revival of the sport in the country.
Born in Nur, Mazandaran Province, he also served seven terms as a member of Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly, known as the Majlis.
Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Nategh Nouri helped revive boxing in Iran after the sport remained suspended for several years.
He became president of the Iran Boxing Federation in 1989 and remained in the position until 2017. During his tenure, the federation worked to strengthen boxing activities and develop the sport at the national level.
One notable moment during his leadership came when legendary American boxer Muhammad Ali visited Iran. The visit highlighted the country’s connections with one of the most famous figures in boxing history.
Nategh Nouri’s long career combined sports administration with public service. His seven terms in parliament also made him a prominent figure beyond Iran’s sporting community.
News of his death prompted condolences from members of Iran’s sports community and others who worked with him during his decades of involvement in boxing.
His 28-year leadership remains closely associated with the modern development of boxing in Iran, particularly after the sport’s return following its earlier suspension.
Nategh Nouri died after years of illness, leaving behind a long record of service to Iranian boxing and public life.
His death marks the loss of one of the country’s longest-serving sports administrators. His family and Iran’s sporting community have received condolences following his passing.