Boxer embraced by man, popular Russian singer (9)
I believe the answer is:
chaliapin
'russian singer' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.
'boxer embraced by man popular' is the wordplay.
'boxer' becomes 'Ali' (Muhammad Ali).
'embraced by' indicates putting letters inside.
'man' becomes 'chap' (term for a man).
'popular' becomes 'in' ('in' can mean trendy).
'ali' inserted inside 'chap' is 'chaliap'.
'chaliap'+'in'='CHALIAPIN'
Can you help me to learn more?
I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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