At the Soviet-Cuban joint pre-Olympic training camp in Suhumi, Georgian SSR, set for the 1988 Olympics, he sparred with Félix Savón, constantly staggering him with devastating bodyshot flurries at close range. They never met again though as Shanavazov was in the lighter weight class.
Lost to Andrew Maynard (United States) by unanimous decision, 0–5
Professional career
Because of poor management and poor performance Shanavazov had no success as a professional. He turned pro in 1990 and also retired that same year, finishing with a record of three fights, zero wins.
