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Ashgabat Stage of the National Chess Grand Prix Concluded

11 May. 12:06

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The specialized chess and draughts school in Ashgabat hosted the Grand Prix stage organized by the Chess Federation of Turkmenistan from May 4 to May 8. This event was part of the broader national policy aimed at promoting physical education and excellence in competitive sports. Following the final matches, the winners were honored at an official awards ceremony.

The competition was organized according to International Chess Federation (FIDE) standards using the Swiss system across 9 rounds. With more than 270 participants competing, the tournament also featured international rating calculations. Players from across the country gathered to demonstrate their tactical skills in this highly competitive environment.

In the open category, Annamuhammet Hommadow from Ashgabat secured a flawless victory, winning all 9 of his matches. He was followed by Aly Ahmedow in second place and Shahruh Turayev in third. Their performances highlighted the high level of professional training present within the national chess community.

The women’s division saw Aya Bayramova from Turkmenabat, Lebap region, claim the top spot on the podium. Mahri Agamyradova secured the second position, while Nurana Soyunova took third place. Complete tournament results and individual standings have been officially recorded in the international chess database.

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Financial Disagreements Derail Anticipated Heavyweight Bout Between Usyk and Wilder

Today in 04:59

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The highly anticipated heavyweight showdown between former undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk and former WBC titleholder Deontay Wilder has officially been canceled. Both camps had initially aimed to stage the blockbuster bout in the spring of 2027, generating immense excitement among boxing enthusiasts worldwide. However, negotiations between the prominent boxing stars ultimately collapsed behind closed doors.

According to prominent sports journalist Mike Coppinger and insider sources, the breakdown in talks stemmed directly from unresolved financial disputes and disagreements over purse splits. Negotiations were reportedly halted roughly three weeks ago after both sides failed to reach a mutually beneficial commercial agreement. As a result, the Ukrainian champion is currently left without a scheduled opponent, and his promotional team is not actively engaged in talks for an alternative match.

Meanwhile, rumors have surfaced regarding Deontay Wilder's potential next steps inside the squared circle. Reports indicate that Wilder has reached out to cruiserweight standout Jai Opetaia, attempting to entice him into a December 11 fight card. Speculation suggests Wilder hopes to position this high-profile matchup as a co-feature ahead of the eagerly awaited heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

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