Los Angeles Kings captain Anze Kopitar recently spent time with retired Slovenian professional boxer Dejan Zavec, as shared by Kopitar’s wife Ines on her Instagram stories. The two sports personalities were captured sitting together at an outdoor cafe, exchanging smiles and a friendly fist bump.
In the photo, Kopitar sported a white t-shirt and a yellow wristband, while Zavec donned a fitted black t-shirt. Ines captioned the image with “Legends 💪,” acknowledging both athletes in the post.
Dejan Zavec, also known as “Mr. Sympathicus,” had a successful boxing career, winning the IBF welterweight world title in 2009 by defeating Isaac Hlatshwayo. Throughout his career, Zavec held various regional titles such as the WBO and IBF Intercontinental, WBO European, and EBU-EU welterweight titles. After retiring in 2015 with a record of 35 wins (19 KOs), 4 losses, and 1 no contest, Zavec continues to be involved in the sports world.
In a separate event earlier this year, Anze Kopitar and his family showed support for McLaren Racing during the Australian Grand Prix. Tuning in from home, the Kopitars celebrated McLaren’s victory as Lando Norris emerged victorious in a rain-affected race in Melbourne.
Ines shared glimpses of their race day experience on Instagram, showcasing Anze and their son Jakob in McLaren gear, while daughter Neza sported a Lando Norris-themed shirt. The family’s connection to McLaren Racing stems from their friendship with McLaren CEO Zac Brown. The bond between the Kopitars and Brown began after Anze watched Brown in a hockey scene featured on Netflix’s “Drive to Survive.”
The friendship blossomed, leading to Brown attending Kings games and spending quality time with the Kopitar family in Los Angeles and on a skiing trip in Mammoth. Their relationship extends beyond sports, with Ines being one of the first to congratulate McLaren when the team secured its first Constructors Championship in 26 years.
Anze Kopitar’s diverse interests in sports and his close connections within the sports community showcase his passion for athletics beyond the realm of hockey. As a respected figure in the NHL and a dedicated family man, Kopitar continues to engage with fellow athletes and sports enthusiasts, creating lasting memories and friendships in the process.