Thabiso Dlamini, right, is set to train in a facility in Russia for the next year ©Getty Images

Swazi boxer Thabiso Dlamini has begun training in Russia following a 12-month deal signed between the Russian Boxing Federation (RBF) and the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA).

The agreement means the four-time Commonwealth Games participant is able to train at a facility in Russia for the duration of the year.

The signing of the contract was made by the EOCGA's chief executive Maxwell Jele and RBF secretary general Tatiana Kirienko in Moscow.

"This sponsorship has been issued by the President of the International Boxing Association (IBA), Uma Kremlev in his personal capacity," Jele said, as reported by the Eswatini Observer.

"This is an important step towards preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

"As we announced recently, our intention is to secure such opportunities for all our top athletes.

Thabiso Dlamini has previously competed at Tokyo 2020 as well as four editions of the Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images
Thabiso Dlamini has previously competed at Tokyo 2020 as well as four editions of the Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images

"We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere appreciation to the president of IBA and the Russian Boxing Federation for this opportunity."

Jele and former Eswatini Boxing Association President, Pearl Dlamini, travelled to Russia to complete the signing of the agreement as well as to ensure the athlete starts well in his new surroundings.

"I have settled quite well and already done two sessions per day," Thabiso Dlamini said.

Jele also utilised the opportunity to meet with the Russian Olympic Committee to explore further possible partnerships for athlete development.

Dlamini also competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and was also a Baton bearer for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Queen' Baton Relay when it came to Eswatini in December 2021.