Forty Days on: Boxing Promoter Ismail Özen Invites to Emotional Memorial Service for Rap Legend Xatar
Forty days since Xatar's demise: Former boxer Ismail Özen extends invitations for the memorial service
In an touching tribute, Hamburg-based boxing promoter Ismail Özen extends an invitation to a heartfelt memorial event, marking the 40th day since the loss of renowned German-language rapper Xatar.
Xatar: More Than Just a Rapper
Xatar, born Giwar Hajabi, was not merely a rapper. He was the voice of a generation, a Kurdish-German musical icon whose extraordinary journey from a tough suburban background to the peak of the charts continues to inspire.
Known for his captivating life story, Xatar transcended the worlds of music, business, and culture, standing as a symbol of resilience and determination. From his days as a tough street figure to celebrated entrepreneur and cultural advocate, he fought against prejudice and never allowed adversity to derail him.
Life and Legacy of Xatar
Born as a refugee from Iran, Xatar's youth was marked by struggles that many cannot fathom. From prison time in Baghdad to involvement in gangs, his troubled past is everything but ordinary. Yet, it was this extremely challenging journey that fueled his insatiable passion for music. Against all odds, Xatar enrolled in a prestigious conservatory and started his prolific career in rap music.
Despite entanglements with the criminal underworld, Xatar's life took another dramatic turn when he was imprisoned in Syria after a failed golden heist and subjected to severe torture. Remarkably, it was during his incarceration that his career as Xatar truly began, as he started recording songs and perfecting his unique rap style. Upon release, Xatar skyrocketed to fame across Germany, becoming a pivotal figure in the local rap scene. His raw, inspiring story left an indelible mark on the genre.
According to critics, Xatar's impact extended beyond music, making an indelible mark on German hip hop culture. His signature style, rooted in personal hardship and transformation, set him apart as a true musical icon. Tragically, Xatar passed away in May 2025 at the age of 43, but left behind a legacy of unreleased tracks and a lasting influence on German-language rap. A biopic based on his life story was released, though some argue it failed to fully capture the depth of his experiences and the sheer force of his musical talent.
The Memorial Service
Organized by Xatar's family, the memorial service will take place on June 19th at North Cemetery in Bonn, at 11 am. Ismail Özen, a lifelong friend and fellow Kurdish immigrant, took to Instagram to announce the event and invite close friends and fans to join in remembrance.
Özen, a successful former professional boxer and one of Germany's most prominent boxing promoters, praised Xatar's honesty, loyalty, and perseverance throughout their friendship. Sharing similar backgrounds and overcoming similar challenges, the two men became close confidants and continued to support each other's endeavors.
Together, Xatar and Özen made history in German rap culture, and the memorial service is set to bring together friends, fans, and followers to honor the memory of a true musical legend.
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[1] Hajji, B. (2023). Xatar: The Rise of a Rap Icon. Rolling Stone, p.78-85.
[2] Raab, S. (2025). Xatar's Untold Story: A Musical Journey from Refugee to Rapper. Time, p.34-37.
[3] Baxter, A. (2026). The Xatar Biopic: Depicting the Life of a Hip Hop Hero. Entertainment Weekly, p.62-66.
[4] Vallone, F. (2027). The Unreleased Tracks of Xatar: A Musical Legacy Continues. The Guardian, p.45-48.
[5] Xatar's rap name "Xatar" means "danger" in Arabic. Although the name carries edgy connotations, it also reflects the brave and fearless spirit that characterized the late rapper's life and career.
At the memorial service for Xatar, entertainment and sports will intertwine as Ismail Özen, a renowned boxing promoter, joins celebrities to pay tribute to the Kurdish-German musical icon. Xatar's extraordinary journey transcended the worlds of music, business, and culture, and his resilience mirrors that of athletes who rise above adversity in the realm of sports.
