By Norm Frauenheim –

LOS ANGELES — It was a ceremonial weigh-in, which is another way of saying it was phony. But there was nothing phony about the look. From Terence Crawford, it never has been.

Crawford looked at and through Israil Madrimov the way he has throughout a career introduced and defined by unblinking, unforgiving eyes impossible to ignore and intense enough to fear. Crawford doesn’t say much. He doesn’t have to. Those eyes say it all. They have throughout a career without a loss and never a sign of hesitancy or self-doubt.

Errol Spence has seen it. Shawn Porter, and so many more, have seen it. It was Madrimov’s turn at LA Live in downtown Los Angeles Friday about 24 hours before their junior-middleweight title fight at BMO Stadium just a few miles of roadwork down the freeway.

They had already made weight earlier in the day behind closed doors for the California State Athletic  Commission. Crawford (40- 31 KOs) was at 153.4 pounds. Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs) was at the 154-pound limit. A ceremonial version in front of fans and cameras was next. It’s one way to sell the pay-per-view for a card scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. PT (4:30 ET). It’s mostly theater, rehearsed and packaged. 

But for Crawford it was one more chance to unleash a look seen for the first time for the fighter standing across from him. We’ve seen the look on video and in photos. For those last few moments on a stage in downtown LA, however, it included more than just ceremony. There was chaos. At least, that was the promise, the forecasted threat, on the night before the first jab ignites the controlled violence.

Did it affect Madrimov? We won’t know until opening bell in a soccer stadium built on real estate that once included the old Sports Arena, a cornerstone to LA’s rich boxing history. But the look was a sure sign that the fight was already underway in the minds of both Crawford and Madrimov.  

“I was already the best at 154 when I stepped into this division,’’ said Crawford, a former undisputed champion at welterweight and junior-welter, who will fight for the first time at junior-middle against Madrimov, the champion about to make a first-time defense.

Madrimov is given a chance because of his familiarity at the weight. He’s a natural junior-middleweight. Then again, Crawford might be a natural force-of-nature. He’s on a roll, including a streak of 11 successive stoppages. 

The argument is that eventually a move up the scale will stop Crawford, end his pound-for-pound reign. Madrimov appeared to be unshaken by a look that has left a lot of Crawford opponents beaten before the first counter lands.

“I have a plan,’’ said the unbeaten Uzbek, who has been training in the desert east of Los Angeles under veteran trainer Joel Diaz’ guidance. “I have a plan to showcase my skills and prove I’m the best in this division.’’

Madrimov, mostly unknown among Mexican-American fans in Southern California, possesses athleticism and two-fisted power. Like Crawford, he’s versatile, able to switch from southpaw to orthodox and back.

A former gymnast, his footwork includes angles that could give Crawford problems. He’s an educated fighter, one who learned the craft through a decorated amateur career that includes more than 300 bouts. 

Translation: He knows what he’s doing. But, Crawford said, he’ll have to know a lot more than just that.

Crawford says he has beaten a lot of fighters whose resume includes trophies and medals.

“They all left the ring the same way, and I look for him to leave the same way,’’ Crawford said moments after a stare down that has always included an unmistakable look at him.

And what he intends to do. 

On The Undercard 

Former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs), who is coming off a 23-month layoff,  faces Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs). Miller was at 305.6 pounds, the lightest Miller has weighed in six years. Ruiz was at 274.4 pounds, the heaviest he’s been since his rematch loss to Anthony Joshua in December 2019. “This is everything for me, of course it is,’’ said Ruiz, remembered for his huge upset of Joshua in New York. “I had everything in the palm of my hand. Then, it just went away. I want to be a damn champion again.’’

In another heavyweight fight,  promising Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) is in for his toughest test against Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs). Anderson was at a career-high 252.4 pounds. Bakole also came in at a career-high weight, 284.4 pounds.

Mexican junior-welterweight champion Isaac Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) got huge cheers from Mexican fans  He was at 140 pounds against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), who was at 139.8.

David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs), a Cuban living in Minneapolis, looks as if  he’s a possibility at light-heavyweight for David Benavidez, the Phoenix fighter who has decided to stay at 175 pounds. Benavidez relinquished his spot as the WBC’s so-called mandatory challenger to Canelo Alvarez’ super-middleweight title. Instead, Benavidez, who hopes to resume his career later this year, has a so-called mandatory shot at the 175-pound winner of Dmitry Bivol-versus-Artur Beterbiev in October. Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) will be at light-heavy for a vacant title against Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs). Morrell, who has scored seven successive stoppages, was at 174.8 pounds Friday. Kalajdzic was at 174.4.

Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO), an Olympic gold medalist from Cuba, was at 134 pounds for his lightweight bout against Antonio Moran, who came in at 134.8. Cruz is a Boots Ennis stablemate. “Boots will be here, at ringside,’’ Cruz said of Philadelphia’s welterweight champion. Ennis wants to fight Crawford, who instead might be in line for a big-money bout against 168-pound Canelo. 

Former unified Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua scored a brutal second round stoppage over former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in a scheduled 10-round bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

In round one, Joshua landed a perfect right to the jaw that put Ngannou on the deck. In round two, Joshua landed a perfect counter right that put Ngannou in the canvas aagain. Ngannou was clearly clearly hurt with a bloody lip and then ate a humongous right hand that bent him over his right leg and out cold at 2:31.

Joshua, 252.4 lbs of London is 28-3 with 25 knockouts. Ngannou, 272.6 lbs of Cameroon is 0-2.

Parker Decisions Zhang; Captures WBO Interim Heavyweight Title

Joseph Parker survived two knockdowns and won the WBO Interim Heavyweight totle with a 12-round majority decision ovr Zhilei Zhang.

In round three, Zhang landed a little left hand that put Parker on the seat of his pants.

In round eight, Zhang landed a little right hook on the inside that put Parker down for a second time.

Zhang did not capitalize on the knockdowns and Parker did a little more to win by scores of 115-111, 114-112 and 113-113.

Parker, 247.6 lbs of South Auckland, NZ is 35-3. Zhang, 291.6 lbs of China is 26-2-1.

Vargas and Ball Battle to Draw in Featherweight Title Bout

Rey Vargas built up a nice lead, and he needed it as Nick Ball scored two knockdowns in the second half of their fight and battle to a split draw. Vargas keeps his WBC Featherweight title.

Vargas dominated the first half of the fight as he landed hard body shots. The fight started turning in the second half of fight.

In round seven, Ball rocked and buckled Vargas on two occasions. In round eight, Ball was able to register a knockdown when he was off balance and Ball landed a left hook. Ball continued to sure forward in the ensuing rounds. In round 11, Vargas was dropped again as Ball landed a hard right on the chin.

Vargas landed 118 of 536 punches. Ball was 111 of 472.

Scores were 114-112 for Vargas, 116-112 for Ball and 113-113.

Vragas, 125 lbs of Mexico is 36-1-1. Ball, 125 lbs of Liverpool is 19-0-1.

Madrimov Stops Kurbanov in 5 to win Super Welterweight Title

Israil Madrimov won the WBA Super Welterweight title with a fifth round stoppage over Magomed Kurbanov.

Madrimov dominated the action by landing some hard right hands over the first four frames. Kurbanov showed some life but that was short lived as in round five, Madrimov landed a hard right that rocked Kurbanov to the ropes. Madrimov followed up and landed two more hard overhand rights that forced a stoppage at 2:20

Madrimov, 153.6 lbs of Uzbekistan is 10-0-1 with seven knockouts. Kurbanov, 153.6 lbs of Ekatinberg, RUS is 25-1.

Mark Chamberlain stops Gavin Gwynne in 4

Mark Chamberlain stopped Gavin Gwynne in round four of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Gwynne started to swell around his right eye. In round three, Gwynne’s eye was shutting rapidly. Chamberlain continued to pour on the offense and in round four, landed a hard right hook that drove Gwynne to the ropes. Chamberlain followed up with a flurry and the fight was stopped at 2:46.

Chamberlain, 134.6 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. Gwynne, 134 lbs or Treharris, WAL is 17-3-1.

Huni Hangs on and Decisions Lerena

Justis Huni was hurt bad in the 10th and final round but was able to hang on and defeat Kevin Lerena via 10-round unanimous decision in a heavyweight bout.

The bout was close throughout. In round 10, Lerena landed a huge left that rocked Huni across the ring on bad legs. Lerena followed up but was not able to put him down.

Huni, 243.2 lbs of Brisbane, AUS won by scores of 98-92 and 96-94 twice and is now 9-0. Lerena, 232.4 lbs of Johannesburg, SA is 30-3.

Louis Greene scored an emphatic first-round stoppage over Jack McGann in a 10-round super welterweight bout.

Greene landed a booming right hand that put McGann hard on his back. McGann got to his feet, but the fight was waved off at 1:29.

Greene, 153.2 lbs of Kent, ENG is 17-4 with 11 knockouts. McGann, 153.4 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 9-1-1.

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Roman Fury won a four-round decision over Martin Svarc.

Fury, 224 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 39-37 score and is 4-0. Svarc, 225 lbs of CZE is 2-1.

Fury is the brother of WBC Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, who was ringside.

Ziyad Almaayouf remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Christian Lopes Flores in a super lightweight contest.

Almaayouf, 144.4 lbs of Riyadh, SA won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Flores, 142 lbs is 14-36-2.

Andrii Novytskiy scored a third-round stoppage over Juan Torres in a eight-round heavyweight bout.

Novytskiy, 239.4 lbs is now 10-0 with nine knockouts. Torres, 255.6 is 11-6-1.

Israil Madrimov and Magomed Kurbanov will contest the World Boxing Association (WBA) super welterweight world title on Friday at the Kingdom Arena in Ryad, Saudi Arabia. 

Madrimov is ranked No. 1 at 154 pounds, while Kurbanov is No. 2 and they will fight for the vacant belt once Jermell Charlo was placed as champion in recess by the championships committee. 

Uzbek Madrimov comes from defeating Raphael Igbokwe in his most recent fight held last April 8, 2023. Now he will have the big opportunity he has been waiting for to win the belt this Friday. 

Kurbanov has proven himself against good opponents such as Johan Gonzalez or Michel Soro and has shown his power. Now he will have a bigger challenge and believes he has the formula to face it in the best way and come out with the belt in his hands 

Madrimov has a record of 9 wins, 1 draw and 6 knockouts, while Kurbanov has 25 wins, no losses and 13 knockouts.

Jesse Rodriguez became a two-division world champion with a 12-round unanimous decision over Cristian Gonzalez to capture WBO Flyweight title in San Antonio, Texas.

Rodriguez, 111.4 lbs of San Antonio, Texas won by scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112 and is now 18-0. Gonzalez, 112 lbs of Tultitlan, MEX is 15-2.

Marlon Tapales wrestled the IBF/WBA Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round split decision over now-dethroned champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev,

Tapales, 121.8 lbs of Lanao del Norte, PHL won two cards 115-113 and Akhmadaliev took a card by a too-wide 118-110.

Tapales is 37-3. Akhmadaliev, 121.6 lbs of Chust, UZB is 11-1.

Raymond Ford scored a 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in a featherweight bout.

In round four, Ford dropped Magdaleno with a hook behind the head.

In round 11, Ford dropped Magdaleno with a right hook to the body that was followed up by a straight left to the head.

Ford, 126 lbs of Camden, NJ is 14-0-1. Magdaleno, 126 lbs of Las Vegas is 29-2.

Thomas Mattice scored a come from behind 10th round stoppage over Ramiro Cesena in the final round of their super featherweight bout.

In round eight, Mattice was deducted a point after his mouthpiece came out.

Mattice landed a right that drove Cesena back. Mattice landed a hard flurry for which most of the punches seemed to hit the gloves of Cesena and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Mattice, 129 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 21-3-1 with 16 knockouts. Cesena, 130 lbs of Baja California, MEX is 16-1-1.

Israil Madrimov won a 10-round unanimous decision over Raphael Igbokwe in a super welterweight contest.

Madrimov, 158.8 lbs of Chiva, UZB won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 9-0-1. Igbokwe, 160 lbs of Houston, TX is 16-4.

Marc Castro remained undefeated by stopping Ricardo Lopez in a eight-round lightweight fight.

In round seven, Castro hurt Lopez with a hard right that drove Lopez to the ropes that started big flurry, and the fight was stopped at

Castro, 133 lbs of Fresno, CA is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Lopez, 133.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 16-7-3.

Khalil Coe remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over James Quiter in scheduled six-round light heavyweight fight.

In round one, Coe dropped Quiter with a hard left hand. In round three, Coe dropped Quiter with a right hand. Seconds later, Coe finished the fight by landing a bug right uppercut that put Quiter down again, and the fight was stopped at 1:51.

Coe, 175.8 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 5-0-1 with three knockouts. Quiter, 174.8 lbs of Oak Park, IL is 6-2-1.

Jesus Martinez and Jose Lopez battled to a four-round draw in a bantamweight contest.

Each fighter won a scorecard 39-37 and a third card was 38-38.

Martinez, 119.4 lbs of DelRio, TX is 3-0-1. Lopez, 118.4 lbs of Rodgewood, NY 4-2-2.

Derek Chisora evened up his series with Kubrat Pulev by winning a split decision in a 12-round heavyweight bout at The O2 Arena in London.

In round five, Pulev was cut on his left eyelid. It was a sloppy yet entertaining affair that saw each guy land some big shots throughout the contest.

Chisora landed 171 of 526 punches; Pulev was 200 of 796.

Each fighter won a scorecard by a 116-112 tally. A third card was 116-114 for Chisora.

Madrimov and Soro Fight to a Technical Draw

Israil Madrimov and Michel Soro fought to a technical draw when Soro suffered a bad cut in the third round of their 12-round junior middleweight rematch.

At the start of round three, The two clashed heads, and Soro began to bleed badly over his left eye. The fight was the sequel to a December rematch that saw Madrimov score a ninth round stoppage, but the stoppage may have come after the ninth round bell had sounded.

Ali Decisions Rojas

Ramla Ali remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Agustina Rojas in a super bantamweight fight.

Ali, 122.14 kbs of Greewich, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 6-0. Rojas, 122.3 lbs of Villeurbanne, ARG is 6-2.

Agyarko Decisions Maciej

Caoimhin Agyarko won a 10-round unanimous decision over Lukasz Maciej in a super middleweight bout.

Agyarko, 153.12 lbs of Belfast, NI won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-93 and is now 12-0. Maciej, 154 lbs of Lublin. POL is 28-5-1.

Wardley Stops Healey in 2

Fabio Wardley remained undefeated by stopping Chris Healey in round two of their eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Wardley opened up with a hard combination that put Healey down to the canvas. It was the same thing in round two as Warley landed a hard combination that punctuated by a right hand that put Healey down and the towel was thrown in at 40 seconds.

Wardley, 238 lbs of Ipswich, ENG is now 14-0 with 13 knockouts. Healey, 275 lbs of Stickport, ENG is 9-10.

Solomon Dacres won an eight-round decision over Kevin Nicolas Espindola in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 230.1 lbs of Birmingham, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 4-0. Espindola, 257 lbs of San Pedro, ARG is 7-5.

Yousuf Ibrahim won a decision over Francisco Rodriguez in a super bantamweight bout.

Ibrahim, 120.1 lbs of Northhampton, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 2-0. Rodriguez, 121.1 lbs of Alfacar, SPA is 1-7.

Israil Madrimov can take a step closer to achieving his World Title dream when he faces Michel Soro in a Final Eliminator for the WBA Super-Welterweight crown on another huge night for Uzbekistan boxing at the Renaissance Hall in Tashkent on Friday December 17, with all of the action shown live worldwide on DAZN. 

Madrimov (7-0, 5 KOs), the No.2 ranked Super-Welterweight with the WBA, outpointed the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Emmany Kalombo, who had won all fourteen of his professional contests inside the distance before facing ‘The Dream’, last time out at the Humo Arena in Tashkent on the undercard of Murodjon Akhmadaliev’s win over Ryosuke Iwasa.

France’s Soro (35-2-1, 24 KOs) is ranked No.1 in the world at 154lbs with the WBA and secured mandatory status in 2018 with a two-round wipe-out of the USA’s Greg Vendetti. The reigning WBA Gold World Super-Welterweight Champion scored a pair of knockouts over his compatriots Anderson Prestot and Cedric Vitu in 2019 but hasn’t fought since. 

Uzbekistan’s undefeated Super-Lightweight star Shakhram Giyasov (11-0, 9 KOs) returns to action against Argentina’s Cristian Rafael Coria (29-8-2, 13 KOs) after successfully defending his WBA International Title with a third-round stoppage win over Patricio Lopez Moreno in April. 

2016 Olympic Champion Hasanboy Dusmatov (3-0, 3 KOs) fights for the second time in 2021 against Mexico’s Jose Rivas (18-12-4, 10 KOs) following his impressive two-round demolition job on Muhsin Kizota to capture the WBA International Light-Flyweight Title in just his third outing in the professional ranks. 

Tashkent’s own Dilshodbek Ruzmetov makes his professional debut at Light-Heavyweight, undefeated Lightweight Elnur Abduraimov (7-0, 6 KOs) continues his journey in the pros and Super-Welterweight prospect Ikboljon Kholdarov (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win back in April and Super-Middleweight Bektemir Melikuziev (7-1, 6 KOs) looks to bounce back from his first career loss to Gabriel Rosado in June. 

“We’re bringing DAZN back to Uzbekistan,” said Madrimov. “I’m happy to fight in Uzbekistan in front of my people. Fighting Soro is a big and very important step towards my goal. I rate him as the best Super-Welterweight who doesn’t hold the belt. It will be exciting fight for the fans worldwide.”

“I am looking forward to December 17, when I will take my final step before challenging for the World Title,” said Soro. “My opponent Israil Madrimov deserves respect as he has the courage to face me with only 7 professional fights behind him. But I am ready to beat anyone, anywhere.  I will prove it on December 17, and I will prove it again when I become World Champion.”

“We are delighted to be returning to Uzbekistan for another huge night of boxing following our World Championship card at the Humo Theatre back in April headlined by Murodjon Akhmadaliev,” said Frank Smith, Matchroom Boxing CEO. “This time it’s ‘The Dream’ Israil Madrimov who brings big time boxing back to his homeland as he faces Michel Soro in a Final Eliminator for the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title. 

“Madrimov vs. Soro is part of a stacked December for us on DAZN that gets underway in Bilbao this Friday as Kerman Lejarraga defends his European Super-Welterweight crown against Jack Flatley. Then it’s over to Las Vegas the following evening for Devin Haney’s defence of his WBC Lightweight World Title against Joseph ‘Jo Jo’ Diaz Jr. We end the year with a bang in the UK as Conor Benn and Katie Taylor headline in Liverpool on Saturday December 11 and the following week it’s the massive rematch between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora.”

“We and our partners are always looking to bring top tier boxing action to nations across the world, and we are excited to be in Uzbekistan once again on December 17,” said said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. ” Madrimov vs. Soro will be a cracking fight and will kick off a stacked weekend of boxing which includes Parker vs. Chisora and Ramirez vs. Gonzalez, live worldwide on DAZN.”

Ticket details will follow in due course. 

Muroodjon Akhmadliev retained the IBF/WBA Super Bantamiweight titles with a fifth round stoppage over Ryosuke Iwasa at the Humo Arena in Tashkent, Uznbekistan.

In round five, Akamadaliv landed a hard combination that sent Iwasa into the ropes, and the fight was stopped (maybe Prematurely) at 1:30.

Akhmadlaiv, 121 .2 lbs of Chust, UZB is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Iwasa, 121.6 lbs of Kashiwa, JAP is 27-4.

Shakhram Giyasov stopped Patricio Lopez in round three of a scheduled 10-round super lightweight fight.i

In round two, Giyasov landed a right hand that put Moreno on the deck. In round three, Giyasov landed a right to the head that sent Moreno down face-first and the fight was over at 2:21.

Giyasov, 139.5 lbs of Bukhara, UZB is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Moreno, 139.3 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 28-5.

Madrimov decisions Kalombo

In a fight featuring undefeated super welterweights, Israil Madrimov won a 10-round unanimous decision over Emmany Kalombo.

In round eight, Madrimov landed a left in the middle of an exchange that sent Kalombo stumbling into the ropes for a knockdown.

Madimov, 154.2 lbs of Khiva, UZB won by scores of 100-89, 99-90 and 98-92 to raise his unblemished mark to 7-0. Kalombo, 153.6 lbs of The Congo is 14-1.

Jalolov stops Zutis in 2

Bakhodir Jololov stopped Kristaps Zutis in round two of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Jalolov dropped Zutis with a left. Seconds later, it was a right hook that put Zutis down with a right hook in the corner and the fight was stopped at 1:16.

Jalolov, 250 lbs Sariosiyo, UZB is 8-0 with eight knockouts. Zutis, 255 lbs of Sabile, LAT is 7-2-2.

Dusmatov stops Kizota in 2

2016 Olympic Gold Medal winner Harsanboy Dusmatov stopped Muhsin Kizota in round two of their scheduled 10-round light-flyweight bout.

In round one, Dusmative dropped Kizota with a left over the top. In that same right, Dusmatov was cut around the right eye. In round two, Dusmatov landed another perfect left that put Kizota down for a second time. Moments later, it was a short left on the inside the put Kizota down again. Kizota was able to go on, but only a couple of seconds later, one more flush left forced the referee to stop the fight at 2:02,

Dusmatov, 108 lbs of Uzbekistan is 3-0 with three knockouts. Kizota, 108 lbs of Tanzania is 11-3.

Mirazizbek Mirzakhlilov made a successful pro debut with a first-round stoppage over Tasha Mjuaji schedueld six-round super bantamweight bout

In round one, Mirzakhalilov dropped Mjuaji with a right hand. Seconds later it was another right t hat sent Mjuaji down for the 10-count at 2:24.

Mirzakhlilov, 121.9 lbs of Tanzania is 1-0 with one knockout. Mjuaji of Tanzania is 17-8-2.

Indio, CA (March 3, 2021) Top Junior Middleweight Prospect Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (6-0, 5 KOs), of Khiva, Uzbekistan is recovering from surgery on his left shoulder to repair a tendon tear. The injury occurred early in his victory over Eric Walker on August 15, 2020 in Tulsa, OK.

Said Madrimov, “The rehabilitation from the surgery a couple of months ago is coming along very well. I look forward to starting my training again very soon and hope to be back in the ring in April or May.”

Acclaimed as one of boxing’s most exciting young fighters and projected as a future world champion, the 26-year-old former amateur standout proved his mettle in the Walker clash. Despite suffering the injury early in the bout, Madrimov seemingly scored a spectacular knockout in the ninth round, however referee Gary Ritter ruled that Walker was falsely pushed to the canvas. Forced to go the distance for the first time, Madrimov was declared the winner by scores of 116-111 and 116-110 twice.

Israil Madrimov/Eric Walker Highlights/DAZN

“Walker was badly hurt and the fight was over in the ninth round, the referee just mistakenly thought it was a push,” said the Joel Diaz trained Madrimov. “After the knockdown, Walker just went into survival mode to finish the fight.”

“But I’ll be back soon and continue to put on great fights for the fans as I continue towards my dream of becoming a world champion.”

Said Vadim Kornilov of Brigade Sports Management, “Israil didn’t want to make any excuses after the fight but it was clear when we talked afterwards that the injury affected his performance. Walker was a very tough opponent who had been avoided by many of the other world ranked junior middleweights.  Sometimes boxing politics will make for certain circumstances that will push us into making mistakes.  We learned from this one, and in the future, we will make sure that we do not take fights on 5-6 week’s notice against guys that have been training and anxiously waiting for their opportunity.”

“Now, three months after the surgery Israil is feeling much better and our goal stays the same for him, the biggest fights and the biggest opportunities. He has made a huge impact and garnered a wealth of international fans with his exciting fights since turning professional and we can’t wait for him to be in the ring again soon.” An announcement on Madrimov’s return to action will be forthcoming shortly.

Israil Madrimov is looking to steal the show again to convince promoter Eddie Hearn to put on a huge show in Uzbekistan as he faces Eric Walker in a final eliminator for the WBA World Super-Welterweight title in the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma on Saturday night (August 15) live on DAZN.
 
Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) has made an electric start to life in the paid ranks, leaving his decorated amateur career behind and winning a title in his first pro outing in November 2018 to signal his intentions.
 
No opponent has taken the Uzbek star into the seventh round after five fights, and while Walker (20-2 9 KOs) has arrived in Tulsa confident of stopping Madrimov’s march and adding to his own incredible story, ‘The Dream’ can take a giant step towards his goal of becoming a World ruler with victory.
 
Boxing is the number one sport in Madrimov’s homeland and they recently celebrated their first World champion when Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev became the unified Super-Bantamweight ruler in January with victory over Daniel Roman in just his eighth pro outing.
 
Madrimov still has ambitions to beat his ‘brother’s’ record and aim to unify at 154lbs before eight fights, targeting a future clash with the winner of the September unification battle between IBF and WBA Super champion Jeison Rosario and WBC king Jermell Charlo, but winning a World title is the key, and if that can happen in Uzbekistan, the 25 year old believes it would be a historic night for his country.
 
“There have been talks over doing an event in Uzbekistan with Eddie Hearn, and it’s easier to do now with MJ as a World champion, it would be a huge event,” said Madrimov. “Our people are crazy boxing fans and would fill up any venue in the country, we have support from the government, so I am sure that it would be a sold-out stadium success and people would remember it for years.
 
“MJ made history and we’re happy for him as our friend, brother and teammate, it’s unbelievable what he achieved, unified champion in eight fights – but I still have time to beat him!
 
“Right now, the focus is Eric on Saturday, not looking past that. As soon as business is taken care of, we move on and we want to fight the champion, whoever that is. Rosario and Charlo are fighting each other, whoever has the belts I’m ready to fight them.
 
“Every fight for me is very important. I started off with a title fight on debut and my last fight was an eliminator, so they are all important and they keep getting bigger. This is a final eliminator and that’s big for me because win this and the next fight should be for a World title, the champion cannot avoid me then. I don’t call people out, I just want to be in a position to fight for titles. I want to build my own legacy and history by becoming World champion and I want to break records.”
 
Madrimov’s clash with Walker is part of a massive night of action as Cecilia Brækhus (36-0 9 KOs) goes for history in the 26^th defense of her undisputed Welterweight crown against unified Super-Lightweight champion Jessica McCaskill (8-2 3 KOs) in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.
 
Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7 KOs) will now face Wiston Campos (31-7-6 19 KOs) after second replacement opponent Rey Perez was ruled out following original opponent Francisco Rojo being forced out of the bout after testing positive for COVID-19 during his training camp in his home city, and a trio of young talents complete the card in Nikita Ababiy (8-0 6 KOs), Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs) and the debut of amateur star Marc Castro.

Israil Madrimov will face Eric Walker on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma on August 15, live on DAZN.
 
Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) has been knocking on the door for World title honors in the Super-Welterweight division and can send a fresh warning to the champions at 154lbs in just his sixth pro outing following a blistering introduction to the paid ranks.
 
The 25 year old looks set to replicate his habitual title winning exploits in the amateur code in the pro game, and ‘The Dream’ is confident of making it six KO wins from six when he goes toe-to-toe with Walker in Tulsa.
 
“I’m very excited to fight on August 15 against such a formidable opponent in Eric Walker,” said Madrimov. “Many thanks to all of my fans worldwide for their support, I can’t wait to put on another great show for you.”
 
“We were initially planning to bring Israil back around September, but this opportunity came up and we all decided that this is a great step for his career,” said Vadim Kornilov, Madrimov’s manager. “We’re looking forward to a bigger test here with Walker then with previous opponents.”
 
“This will be another great performance by Israil,” said Andrei Ryabinskiy, World of Boxing Promotions. “His popularity is growing, and we are very happy working with Matchroom Boxing and DAZN, keeping him busy and moving another step forward on August 15.”
 
For Walker (20-2 9 KOs) the opportunity to derail Madrimov’s rise and catapult himself into the upper echelons of the 154lbs division gives the 37 year old the chance to write yet another chapter of a remarkable life in and out of the ring. 
 
The Louisianan has forged a career in boxing from unlikely beginnings, learning to box in prison as a teenager and then making a bright start to his pro career and won 15 of his first 16 fights before entering ‘The Contender’ in the fall of 2018, where he fell to Brandon Adams in the semi-finals.
 
Walker enters the bout on the back of two wins in the final third of 2019 and the ‘Baby Faced Assasin’ heads to Oklahoma full of confidence that he is the man to end Madrimov’s run.
 
“Madrimov had a great amateur career but, as a pro, he makes a lot of mistakes and I’ll be the guy to give him his first loss,” said Walker. “Despite the restrictions from the pandemic, I’ve been training and staying in shape. I’ve been in the gym since May and I just got back from sparring with Shawn Porter. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this, my mind is focused, and I’m ready to take care of business on August 15.” 
 
“Eric Walker is a legitimate 154-pound contender and will be the best fighter that Israil Madrimov has ever faced. Since turning his life around, Eric has reestablished his career and was a star on the last season of ‘The Contender’. I expect a terrific, competitive fight on August 15 and look forward to watching it on DAZN,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. 
 
Madrimov vs. Walker has been added to the August 15 bill after WBC World Flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez was forced to withdraw from his defense against McWilliams Arroyo through a non-COVID 19 related illness, with Matchroom aiming to place the bout on a card later in the year. 
 
The main event on August 15 will now be the mouth-watering undisputed Welterweight title clash between unbeaten defending champion Cecilia Brækhus and unified Super-Lightweight ruler Jessica McCaskill.
 
“Madrimov vs. Walker is a great addition to our August 15 show,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Israil is one of the standout talents in world boxing and he’s on the cusp of World title glory after just five fights in the paid ranks – a remarkable achievement. 
 
“But Eric has already shown he has all the ingredients to beat the odds time and time again, and I know that he will lay it all on the line and provide Israil with the sternest of tests.
 
“Brækhus-McCaskill is a fight fit to top any bill and while it’s sad to lose the ferocious Mexican champion Julio Cesar Martinez from the show, Cecilia and Jessica more than deserve their spot as the main event – especially at a period of time when women’s boxing is on fire and in the spotlight, with the winner in Tulsa looking to take on the winner of the crunch rematch between Katie Taylor and Delfine Persoon, taking place a week after we return in America with a huge night of action in a stunning setting on the streets of Tulsa.”
 
Brækhus-McCaskill and Madrimov-Walker are the show toppers of a massive night of action in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.
 
Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7 KOs) puts his WBA International Super-Lightweight title against Francisco Rojo (22-3 15 KOs), and a trio of young talents complete the card in Nikita Ababiy (8-0 6 KOs), Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs) and the debut of amateur star Marc Castro.

Los Angeles, CA (April 27, 2020) Uzbek star Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (5-0, 5 KOs), is in his native Uzbekistan staying in shape for when boxing returns and is emphatic about what the next steps in his career should be.

“I’m ready now to fight for a world title fight,” said the 25-year-old Madrimov, currently slotted at #2 in the junior middleweight rankings by the World Boxing Association. “I want to face the WBA champion Jeison Rosario next, he had a great victory over Julian Williams but I’m very confident I can beat him. I will aim for a world title fight when boxing returns and I am more motivated than ever.”

The exciting, young star is coming off a spectacular performance on February 29 knocking out perennial contender Charlie Navarro, (29-10, 22 KOs) in the sixth round in Frisco, TX and broadcast on DAZN. The full fight can be viewed HERE.

“I felt very comfortable in the ring against Navarro, my trainer Joel Diaz is always teaching me new things in the gym and I’m glad that I was able to show some things off in my last fight. I’m looking forward to returning to Indio and getting back into training camp,” continued Madrimov, who displayed his full arsenal against Navarro including effectively switching from orthodox to southpaw.  The victory was captured in a remarkable ‘behind the scenes’ fight week feature by Steve Kim for ESPN which can be viewed here HERE.

Said manager Vadim Kornilov “Israil continues to prove that he is one of the most exciting young stars in international boxing. While many of boxing’s biggest names are over 30 years of age, Israil is only 25 and already has the skills and experience to fight for a world title fight against a champion as talented as Jeison Rosario. Our goal is to give Israil the biggest fights possible.”

Continued Kornilov, “We’re very grateful for the fans and the media in the United States who have praised Israil’s performances and taken such a deep interest in his career. He’s here to stay and will continue to train for the best performances he is capable of. Hopefully, in the near future he joins his stablemate Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev in becoming a world champion.” The also 25-year-old Uzbek won the WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight World Titles with a victory over Daniel Roman on January 30, 2020, broadcast on DAZN in only his eighth professional bout.

“Israil was outstanding in his last performance, we believe that he is ready for a world title fight now and we are working with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing to facilitate that as soon as is possible,“  said Andrei Ryabinsky, head of World of Boxing.

The event in Dallas was promoted by Matchroom Boxing USA who co-promote Madrimov with World of Boxing.

Mikey Garcia returned from his 1st professional loss by winning a 12-round unanimous decision over Jessie Vargas at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

After winning the first four rounds, Vargas was caught by a big right that wobbled him. Garcia followed up with another booming right that put Vargas down in the corner.

Garcia took over and won the next several rounds and gained control of the fight. Vargas tried to make a last stand and landed a couple decent shots in the closing rounds, but was wobbled again in round’s 10 and 12.

Garcia, 145.8 lbs of Oxnard, CA won by scores of 116-111 twice and 114-113 and is now 40-1. Vargas, 147 lbs of Las Vegas is 29-3-2.

Former Pound for Pound King Roman Gonzalez won the WBA Super Flyweight title with a 9th round stoppage over previously undefeated former champion Kal Yafai.

Gonzalez beat up and wore down Yafai and in round eight dropped Yafai with a combination. Gonzalez ended things with a perfect right to the jaw that plummeted Yafai to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 29 seconds of round nine.

Gonzalez, 114 lbs of Managua, NIC is 49-2 with 41 knockouts. Yafai, 114.8 lbs of Birmingham, UK is 26-1.

Julio Cesar Martinez retained the WBC Flyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Jay Harris.

It was a close fight that saw both men have their way during the encounter.

In round five, Harris started to bleed around his left eye.

In round ten, Martinez dropped Harris with a hard body shot.

Martinez, 111.4 lbs of Mexico won by scores of 118-109, 116-111 and 115-112 and is now 16-1. Harris, 111.6 lbs of Wales is 17-1.

Former heavyweight titlist, Joseph Parker stopped Shawndell Winters in round five of a scheduled 10-round bout.

In round three, Parker dropped Winters with a hard right. In round four, Parker was cut under the right eye. In round five, Parker landed a ripping three punch combination to the head that sent Winters to the canvas. The fight was stopped at 2:40

Parker, 245.4 lbs of New Zealand is 27-2 with 21 knockouts. Winter, 208 lbs of Illinois is 13-3.

Israil Madrimov stopped Charlie Navarro in round six of a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight elimination bout.

Madrimov dominated the action and dropped Navarro twice in round six. The first was a hard left to the body. Navarro looked done, and he was seconds later as Madrimov landed a hard right to the body that sent Navarro down again and the fight was stopped at 2:24

Madrimov, 153.2 lbs of Uzbekistan is 5-0 with five knockouuts. Navarro, 153.2 lbs of Panama is 29-10.

Good looking super middleweight prospect Diego Pacheco won an easy six-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas.

Pacheco was dominant with right hand and staggered Riojas in the final moment of the fight.

Pacheco, 167.4 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 60-54 and is now 9-0. Riojas, 167.4 lbs of Mexico is 21-13-1.

Alexis Espino won a six-round unanimous decision over Delvecchio Savage in a super middleweight bout.

Savage began to bleed from the nose in the 5th round.

Espino, 165 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 6-0. Savage, 163.6 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 3-6-1.

Murat Gassiev will make his long-awaited Heavyweight debut against Jerry Forrest at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas on Saturday February 29, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK – with rising Junior-Middleweight star Israil Madrimov in a World title eliminator and headline star Mikey Garcia showcasing two of his Garcia Promotions talents.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $25 VIA SEATGEEK

Gassiev (26-1 19 KOs) announced his move to Heavyweight in April after signing a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA, Ural Boxing and Warriors Boxing to fight on DAZN, following hot on the heels of his old Cruiserweight foe Oleksandr Usyk, the last man he faced in an undisputed World title clash and the final of the World Boxing Super Series in July 2018.

The Russian banger was set to make his bow in July at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas against Joey Dawejko but a shoulder injury in the build-up forced the 26 year old to delay his entrance into a red-hot division.

Now a fully fit Gassiev does get the chance to debut in the Lone Star state, this time against seasoned Louisianan Forrest (26-3 20 KOs), the active 31 year old who has five wins from six fights in the last 12 months, and ‘The Iron’ is looking to sharpen his tools for an assault on the Heavyweights.

“I’m so happy to finally be able to make my debut at Heavyweight,” said Gassiev. “It has been frustrating not being able to fight but I am ready to go now, and I want to make up for lost time.

“When I box in Frisco it will have been nearly 600 days since I’ve fought and a lot has happened in the Heavyweight division over that time – I know that I can be a World champion at Heavyweight but I need to show to the rest of the division that I am a serious threat, and that starts on February 29.”

Madrimov (4-0 4 KOs) defends his WBA Inter-Continental Junior-Middleweight title in an official eliminator for the #2 position in the WBA against Venezuelan Charlie Navarro (29-9 22 KOs). Madrimov landed the title with a stunning second round KO of Frank Rojas in Verona, NY in March and maintained his 100 per cent KO ratio as a pro with sixth and fifth round wins at Madison Square Garden in the Big Apple in June and October.

The 24 year old Uzbekistani talent will be buoyed by his fellow countryman and stablemate ‘MJ’ Murodjon Akhmadaliev becoming Uzbekistan’s first ever unified champion, and victory over the experienced former World title challenger will edge Madrimov closer to a World title shot in 2020.

“I am so excited to be getting my first fight of 2020 on such a big card in Frisco,” said Madrimov. “I was so happy to watch MJ beat Daniel Roman in Miami last weekend, and that win has spurred me on to join him as a World champion this year.

“Navarro is a proud and experienced fighter and I know he will be a great test for me, but this is a great night for me to showcase my talents and show the rest of the division that I am ready to win World titles.”

It’s a huge weekend for headline star Garcia, who faces Jessie Vargas in a blockbuster Welterweight showdown in the main event. Garcia, who promotes a fight card on Friday night in Irving, Texas, will showcase two of his Garcia Promotions charges on his undercard with 20 year old unbeaten Texan Flyweight Jesse Rodriguez (10-0 6 KOs) clashing with Marco Sustaita (12-2-1 10 KOs) over ten rounds and unbeaten Mexican Middleweight Leo Ruiz Acevedo (6-0 4 KOs) taking on Dennis Knifechief (12-11 7 KOs) over six rounds.

“It’s great to have Jesse and Leo on the Frisco card that I am headlining against Jessie Vargas,” said Mikey Garcia. “Jesse’s fight with Marco is a really tough fight for both guys and it’s a real step up for Jesse, while Leo is on a great KO run and will be a threat in the Middleweight division in 2020 – February 29 is going to be a huge night of boxing and we’re looking to get three big wins.”

Gassiev, Madrimov, Rodriguez and Acevedo complete a stacked bill in Frisco, Texas, topped by Garcia vs. Vargas, with the longest reigning British World champion Kal Yafai (26-015 KOs) puts his WBA World Super-Flyweight title on the line against the former pound-for-pound king and four weight World ruler Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (48-2 40 KOs) and rising Mexican sensation Julio Cesar Martinez (15-1 12 KOs) makes the first defense of his WBC World Flyweight title against unbeaten European champion Jay Harris (17-0 9 KOs) – with Matchroom Boxing USA talents Diego Pacheco (8-0 7 KOs) and Alexis Espino (5-0 4 KOs) getting their first taste of action in 2020.

ENDS

About The Star in Frisco
The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and training facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco, Frisco ISD and the Dallas Cowboys, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games, other world class sporting events such as top flight boxing matches, concerts and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; the Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine; Twelve, a 17-story, luxury residential tower in partnership between Pro Football Hall-of-Fame Quarterback #12 Roger Staubach, and Dallas-based developer and former Dallas Cowboys center, Robert Shaw; Formation, a dynamic coworking experience offering a collaborative work environment of open workspace, dedicated desks and private offices; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options throughout The Star District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.

NEW YORK CITY — In the main event from Madison Square Garden, Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin (40-1-1, 35KO) scored a unanimous decision (114-113, 115-112×2), edging past Sergiy “The Technician” Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10KO) to recapture the IBF middleweight title he once owned in an all action Fight of the Year candidate streamed live on DAZN.  

It was a bombs-away affair from the get-go and similar to Dervenyanchenko’s title fight against Daniel Jacobs, the Ukranian came out of cold and was caught and dropped by a Golovkin right on the top of the head midway through the first round. GGG carried his momentum into the second round and landed a vicious lead left hook that opened a nasty gash over Derevyanchenko’s right eye that immediately sent blood running down the 33 year-old’s face.  

Perhaps spurred on by a sense of urgency brought on by the cut, Derevyanchenko stepped up pressure in the third round and started taking the fight to Golovkin, committing heavy shots to the 37 year-old’s body which immediately started to pay dividends.

Credit Derevyanchenko’s cutman, Mike Bazzel, who worked on the gruesome cut round after round, and did a good enough job to satisfy the ringside physicians who continually inspected the Ukranians eye throughout the fight.  

Derevyanchenko noticeably hurt Golovkin for the first time in the fight late into the fifth with a left hook to the liver that produced a wince from GGG and sent him backpedaling in retreat.  The following round witnessed Golovkin sucking wind, breathing deeply through his mouth, while the bloody Derevyanchenko applied more pressure.  

After dropping the early-middle rounds, Golovkin dug in in the seventh and rallied, landing huge left hooks that targeted the worsening cut over Derevyanchenko’s eye.  

The eight and ninth played host to wild exchanges where both fighters were willing to take punches to land their own shots. 

But in the tenth, a surefire Round of the Year candidate, Derevyanchenko came out of his corner guns-a-blazin’ and wailed away on GGG, who found himself in a world of hurt.  But the Kazakh once again found something within himself, withstood Derevyanchenko’s onslaught, and scored with his own huge shots as the round progressed. 

The championship rounds witnessed back and forth action with GGG besting Derevyanchenko during the most meaningful exchanges.  

At the end of twelve, judge Kevin Morgan scored the bout 114-113 and both Eric Marlinski and Frank Lombardi had it 115-112, all for Golovkin.  15Rounds.com also scored it 115-112.

Golovkin now reclaims ownership to the IBF world title he once held and the one that rival Saul “Canelo” Alvarez was stripped of earlier this year after Alvarez and Golden Boy Promotions failed to make a fight with Dereveyanchenko, the IBF mandatory challenger, by a set deadline.  

Tonight marked the second fight GGG worked with trainer Jonathan Banks in his corner.  Banks entered the picture after Golovkin and longtime trainer Abel Sanchez went through an ugly public divorce earlier this year.

For Derevyanchenko, tonight marked the second straight fight he had his longtime trainer, Andre Rozier operating as his corner’s chief second.  Derevyanchenko, who is co-trained by Rozier and Gary Stark, was forced to split from Rozier and work solely with Stark for his title clash with Daniel Jacobs, who is also trained by Rozier.  It was the second time the Ukranian came up short in a title bout, the other being to Jacobs earlier this year.  

It was Golovkin’s second consecutive fight and fifth overall inside the main room at the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, where he’s amassed a record of (4-0, 3KO).  He last fought at the Garden in June when he knocked out Steve Forbes in 4 rounds.   

Golovkin’s lone defeat remains his controversial MD defeat to Canelo Alvarez in 2018.  The two rivals also fought to a draw in 2017 in a fight that many believe Golovkin deserved to win. 

Madrimov Batters Barrera En Route To 5th Round TKO

In the co-feature from Madison Square Garden, unbeaten Uzbeki junior middleweight Israil “The Dream” Madrimov (4-0, 4KO) destroyed Mexican veteran Alejandro Barrera (29-6, 18KO), scoring a fifth round TKO in a contest initially slated for ten rounds.  

Madrimov, 24, set the tone early when he landed a leaping left hook that floored Barrera early in the first.  Instead of headhunting the foggy Barrera, Madrimov make a conscious effort to batter Barrera’s body for the remainder of the opening round.  

Madrimov, who is one of a seemingly endless number of Uzbeki fighters training out of Joel Diaz’s gym in Indio, CA, fought a level above Barrera, who did his best to slip and counter the forward-pressing Madrimov.  Madrimov kept coming though, altering from orthodox to southpaw, pouring in jabs to the body and head, and consistently working his way inside to unload.  

By the fifth round, Madrimov’s body shots began to take their toll on the 33 year-old Barrera, whose movement and reflexes significantly slowed.  It then became open season for the Matchroom Boxing prospect, who potshotted Barrera with head-snapping blows until referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to stop the punishment at the 2:36 mark of the fifth round.  

Madrimov now joins Errol Spence Jr. as the only other fighter to have stopped Barrera inside the distance.  

Baranchyk Blasts Bracero, Scores TKO3

Former IBF junior welterweight champion Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk (20-1, 13KO) bounced back from his World Boxing Super Series semi final defeat to Josh Taylor, scoring a fourth round TKO against veteran Gabriel Bracero (25-4-1, 6KO) in a contest originally scheduled for ten rounds.

It was bombs away for Baranchyk in the opening round, as the 26 year-old threw haymaker after haymaker, hoping to land a fight-ending blow early.  Credit the crafty Brooklynite, Bracero, who was able to remain composed during Baranchyk’s early bursts, and pepper in counter shots that would momentarily halt the Beast’s momentum.  

In the second, Baranchyk began connecting with his power shots.  Using his jab only to set up hooks and crosses, Baranchyk landed a huge left hook early in the round and briefly staggered Bracero.  The two engaged in numerous exchanges throughout the remainder of the round, and at times Bracero would land clean, but his punches did little to deter the forward momentum of Baranchyk who would open a cut over Bracero’s right eye before round’s end.  

In the fourth round, Baranchyk planted a heavy left hook to Bracero’s liver that forced him against the ropes.  Baranchyk immediately followed the body shot with a clean jab and a huge right cross that sent Bracero stumbling forward to the mat.  A dazed Bracero beat referee Arthur Mercante Jr.’s ten count but his corner stepped in to stop the contest before action resumed. The official time of the stoppage came at the 1:30 mark of the fourth round.  

Akhmadev Walks Through Hernandez, Stops Him In One

Khazak-born super middleweight Ali Akhmadev (16-0, 12KO) needed just :44 seconds of a scheduled ten rounds to land a fight-ending right cross to Andrew Hernandez’s (20-8-2, 9KO) temple.  

The GGG stable-mate, who is also trained by Jonathan Banks, set the right hand up nicely by throwing it behind a stiff jab. 

It was Akhmadev’s second straight win inside the distance, and just the fourth time Hernandez has been stopped in his thirty fight career.  

Ceballo Disposes Of Amanov In 3

In a battle of unbeatens, former five-time New York Golden Gloves Champion Brian Ceballo (11-0,6KO) scored a third round TKO over fellow welterweight Ramal Amanov (16-1, 5KO), handing the Azerbaijan native his first pro defeat.  

The 25 year-old Ceballo dominated from the onset, proving to be too quick and too slick for the 35 year-old Amanov.

Early on, a Ceballo left opened a bothersome cut over Amanov’s right eye.  In the third round, Ceballo, who was fighting for the fifth time in 2019, landed another left that knocked Amanov off-balance.  The Fort Greene Brooklyn native Ceballo followed up the left with a flurry of shots that prompted referee Arthur Mercante, Jr. to step in and stop the contest at the 1:20 mark of the third round.  

Szeremeta Shines In US Debut, Scores TKO2 Over Cortes

In his US debut, unbeaten Polish middleweight Kamil Szeremeta (21-0, 5KO) scored a second round TKO over Mexican veteran Oscar Cortes (27-5,14KO).  

The 29 year-old Szeremeta asserted himself early, dropping Corets with a beautifully thrown left hook to the chin in the opening round.  The tattooed Pole kept the heat on in the second, hurting Cortes with an overhand right, before finishing him off with a final left-right combo.  With doctors clamoring on the apron, referee Benjy Esteves Jr. called a halt to the bout at the :45 second mark of round two.  

It was the fourth time in Cortes’ career that he’s been stopped inside the distance and just Szeremeta’s win via stoppage in his last nine contests.  

Injury Spoils Irishman Joe Ward’s Pro Debut, Suffers TKO Loss 

Former 2016 Irish Olympian Joseph Ward (0-1) had his pro debut spoiled when he suffered a gruesome knee injury midway through the second round of a scheduled six round light heavyweight clash that resulted in his opponent, Marco Delgado (6-2, 4KO), being awarded a TKO victory.

The end came suddenly in the second when a Delgado feint drew a reaction from Ward, whose knee twisted awkwardly and immediately gave out, leaving Ward reeling in pain on the mat.  Referee Eddie Claudio ruled the injury “self-imposed”, and therefore Delgado received a win by TKO. The time of the stoppage came at the 1:00 mark of round 2. After doctors tended to Ward’s knee, the gritty Irishman — who is trained by Buddy McGirt — walked out of the ring under his power.  

Ababiy Kicks Off MSG Card In Style; Stops Seldon In One

Twenty year-old Matchroom Boxing super middleweight prospect Nikita “White Chocolate” Ababiy needed less than one of a scheduled six rounds to up his already perfect record to 7-0, 6KO, earning a first round TKO against 31 year-old veteran Isiah Seldon (13-3-1, 4KO).  

Ababiy, who trains under Aureliano Sosa and fights out of Brooklyn, NY, was relentless, battering Seldon’s body, before coming upstairs to deliver a definitive blow that left Seldon unable to continue as the bout was waved off at the 1:45 mark of the opening round.

It was the fifth stoppage in six career wins for the Keith Connolly managed fighter.  

On the flip side, tonight’s TKO marked just the second time in seventeen pro bouts that Seldon had been stopped inside the distance. 

The Ababiy stoppage kicked off a night of fights from Madison Square Garden that will culminate when former middleweight king Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin and Sergiy Derevyanchenko clash for the vacant IBF middleweight title in a bout that will be streamed live on DAZN. 

Gennady Golovkin stopped previously undefeated Steve Rolls in round four of a scheduled 12-round over the limit middleweight fight at Madison Square Garden.

In round two, Rolls gave as good as he received as he landed a hard left that snapped Golovkin’s head back. Golovkin landed some nice body shots. In round three, Rolls landed a nice counter right. Golovkin came back with hard body work.

In round four, Golovkin landed a chopping hook that sent Rolls back to the ropes. Golovkin landed a head and body shot before landing a flush left to the face that sent Rolls face-first on the canvas, and he was counted out by referee Steve Willis at 2:09

Golovkin of Kazakstan is now 39–1-1 with 35 knockouts. Rolls of Toronto is 19-1.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Akhmedov landed a hard combination on the ropes that sent McDaniel to a knee. McDaniel got to his feet, but was unsteady and the fight was stopped by referee Benji Esteves at 1:41.

Akhmedov, 167.4 lbs of Kazakhstan is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. McDaniel, 168 lbs of New Orleans is 15-1.

Five-time New York Golden Gloves winner Brian Ceballo turned in the best performance of his career and took an eight-round unanimous decision of Bakhtiyar Eyubov in welterweight contest.

Ceballo landed hard jabs and string right hands from the opening bell. .  Ceballo was very accurate with his shots.  Ceballo looked very sharp as he landed crisp power shots in between Eyubov’s wild attempts to inflict on the Brooklyn native.  Ceballo continued to land sweet combinations that befuddled Eyubov.  In round eight, Ceballo hurt Eyubov was a nice body shot.  The two battled toe-to-toe down the stretch with Ceballo landing more, quicker and much more fluid combinations that marked up the face of Eyubov.

Ceballo of Brooklyn NY won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 to raise his perfect mark to 9-0. Eyubov of Kazakhstan is 14-1-1.

Israil Madrimov remained undefeated by stopping Norberto Gonzalez in rounds six of their scheduled 10-round junior middleweight contest.

Madrimov was dominant by stalking Gonzalez, and in round six, he turned up the activity by landing a heavy combination that hurt Gonzalez and the fight was stopped at 49 seconds.

Mdrimov, 152 lbs of Uzbekistan is 3-0 with three knockouts. Gonzalez, 152.8 lbs of Monterrey, Mexico us 24-13.

2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell remained perfect with a 10-round unanimous decision over Courtney Pennington to win the USBA Junior Middleweight championship.

In round two, Conwell hurt Pennington with a left hook. In round six, Conwell continued to batter Pennington as he landed a hard combination along the ropes that featured a solid left hook and flush right.  In round eight, Pennington suffered a cut over his right eye from a left-right combination from Conwell.  In round ten, he stunned Pennington again with a right hand.

Conwell, 153.4 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 97-92 twice and 96-93, and is now 10-0. Pennington, 152 lbs of Brooklyn is 12-4-3.

Nikita Ababiy made quick work of Juan Francsico Lopez Barajas as he scored a one-punch, 41-second knockout in their scheduled four-round middleweight contest.

Ababiy landed a left hook to the liver that sent Barajas down. Barajas was in pain, and tried to get up but fell right back down and the fight was stopped.

Ababiy, 162.6 lbs of Brooklyn is 5-0 with five knockouts. Lopez, 157.2 lbs of Mexico is 5-1.

Los Angeles, CA (March 10, 2019) Uzbek star Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (2-0, 2KO), fighting in his second professional bout on Saturday night, March 9, scored a stunning second round knockout of Frank ‘The Rooster’ Rojas, (24-3-0, 23 KOs), in their scheduled ten-round bout at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY. The fight was telecast live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK. With the victory, Madrimov made the first defense of his WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title.

Attacking from the opening bell with a full arsenal of power shots to the head and body, the 24-year-old Madrimov dropped Rojas with a blistering combination in the second stanza as the valiant Venezuelan beat the count of referee Benjy Esteves. Trained by the renowned Joel Diaz in Indio, CA, Madrimov went on the attack and earned the knockout with a vicious combination as the fight was stopped at the time of 1:56 of the round.

Following the fight, Madrimov expressed interest in fighting for a world title in the near future. ‘I’m ready for a world title fight right now, I’d love to face the WBO Champion Jaime Munguia, that would be a great fight for the fans.”

Madrimov is promoted by World of Boxing who last week announced a partnership with Matchroom Boxing for his future fights.

“Israil was outstanding last night, we believe he is ready for a world title fight right now and we look forward to working with Matchroom Boxing to facilitate that, “ said Andrei Ryanbinsky, head of World of Boxing.

Stated manager Vadim Kornilov, “Israil wanted to fight for a world title in his professional debut and his performances continue to validate that he’s ready. We’d love to fight Jaime Munguia this year. Both fight on DAZN so there’s no network or promotional obstacles and this would be a very big fight in Southern California.”

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Madrimov made history in his pro debut on November 24, 2018 which was uniquely scheduled for an unprecedented ten-rounds. The 24-year-old Madrimov knocked out Vladimir Hernandez in the sixth round of their battle in Atlantic City, New Jersey earning the WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title. Hernandez was a very tough test for the pro debut, having previously twice beaten top undefeated prospect Danny Valdivia (14-0), in his direct bouts prior to facing Madrimov.

Prior to turning professional Madrimov was the Gold Medal winner at the 2018 and 2017 Asian Games capping an extraordinary amateur career. Capable of fighting aggressively in the orthodox or southpaw stance, Madrimov thrilled the crowd in Atlantic City with his all-action style and capped his pro debut victory with a spectacular, high-flying backflip.

Sergey Kuzmin remained undefeated with a 10-round majority decision over Joey Dawejko in a heavyweight bout.

In round five, Dawejko began to swell under his right eye.

Huzmin, 248 1/2 lbs of St. Petersbug, RUS on by scores of 96-94 twice and 95-95 to raise his mark to 15-0-1. Dawejko, 250 lbs of Philadelphia is 19-7-4.

Isail Madrimov scored a vicious 2nd round stoppage over Frank Rojas in a scheduled 10-round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Madrimov landed a hard body shot that was followed up by a hard head shot that sent Rojas to the canvas. Rojas got to his feet, but ate some more hard shots, and the fight ended when Madrimov landed an an uppercut that punctuated by a nasty left hook that sent Rojas head bouncing off the canvas, and the fight was stopped immediately at 1:56.

Rojas was down for several minutes, and removed from the ring on a stretcher.

Madrimov, 151 1/2 lbs of Indio, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Rojas, 152 1/2 lbs of Caracas, VEN is 24-3.

In a tough pro debut, 21-time National Amateur champion, Otha Jones III won a six-round unanimous decision over Giorgi Geleashvili in a lightweight bout.

In round four, Jones was credited with a knockdown when he landed a right hand. Replays showed that Jones may have stepped on Geleashvili’s foot.

Jones, 132 1/2 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 59-53 and 58-55 twice, and is now 1-0. Gelashvili, 134 1/4 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 5-2.

Israil Madrimov has signed a co-promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing USA.

The talented Uzbek amateur sensation fights in Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York on Saturday night live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Madrimov defends the WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight title that he won on his pro debut in November in Atlantic City, stopping Vladimir Hernandez in the sixth round of their clash.

The 24 year old puts the title on the line against Frank Rojas (24-2-0 23 KOs) on a stacked card topped by stablemate Dmitry Bivol defending his WBA World Light-Heavyweight title against Joe Smith Jr. – and the two-time Asian Games gold medal man is thrilled to be working with Matchroom Boxing USA along with promoters World of Boxing to weave his path to World title honors.

“I’m very happy that Matchroom Boxing will be part of my team in addition to my promoter World of Boxing,” said Madrimov. “I know that they both have my best interests and will work for me to fight for a World title in the near future.

“I’m very excited to get back in the ring this Saturday and grateful to Matchroom Boxing USA, World of Boxing and my team for this opportunity. I can’t wait to put on a show for the fans.”

“We have a very good working relationship with Matchroom Boxing particularly with Dmitry Bivol and look forward to building a stronger partnership including our combined efforts for Israil Madrimov to become a World champion,” said Andrei Ryabinsky, head of World of Boxing.

“We’ve worked on a number of fights and of course with Dmitry Bivol with Matchroom Boxing and feel very comfortable working with them to further the career of future star Israil Madrimov,” said Vadim Kornilov, Madrimov’s manager. “He has all the skills to become a World champion and together we will work to provide him this opportunity very soon.”

“Israil is a very exciting fighter, he is a star in the making, and I am glad that our entire team has a common understanding and plans for him.”

“I’m delighted to welcome the fearsome Israil Madrimov to the Matchroom Boxing team,” said Eddie Hearn. “Madrimov has already secured a top 15 World ranking after his first fight when he defeated Vladimir Hernandez over 10 rounds in November.

“World of Boxing have expressed their desire to move him at a rapid pace to the World championship and I look forward to seeing him in major fights in 2019 and beyond. Fans are going to love his style, he is aggressive and a huge puncher – he is going to light up the division.”

Los Angeles, CA (March 6, 2019) Former amateur standout Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (1-0, 1KO), of Uzbekistan will face heavy-handed Venezuelan Frank ‘The Rooster’ Rojas, (24-2-0, 23 KOs) in a scheduled ten-round super welterweight clash this Saturday, March 9 at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York and live on DAZN in the US (7:00 pm ET/4:00 pm PT) and on Sky Sports in the UK. The bout will be contested for Madrimov’s WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title.

Madrimov vs. Rojas presented by Matchroom Boxing USA in association with World of Boxing is a featured bout on the undercard to the World Title Double-Header between WBA Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol, (15-0, 11 KOs), and challenger Joe Smith Jr., (24-2, 20 KOs) in addition to the WBO Super Lightweight World Title clash between Champion Maurice Hooker, (25-0-3, 17 KOs), and challenger Mikkel LesPierre, (21-0-1, 10 KOs).

Madrimov made history in his pro debut on November 24, 2018 which was uniquely scheduled for an unprecedented ten-rounds. The 24-year-old Madrimov knocked out Vladimir Hernandez in the sixth round of their battle in Atlantic City, New Jersey earning the WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title. Hernandez was a very tough test for the pro debut, having previously twice beaten top undefeated prospect Danny Valdivia (14-0), in his direct bouts prior to facing Madrimov.

Prior to turning professional Madrimov was the Gold Medal winner at the 2018 and 2017 Asian Games capping an extraordinary amateur career. Capable of fighting aggressively in the orthodox or southpaw stance, Madrimov thrilled the crowd in Atlantic City with his all-action style and capped his pro debut victory with a spectacular, high-flying backflip.

Said Madrimov, “I’m very excited to get back in the ring this Saturday and grateful to World of Boxing and my team for this opportunity. I can’t wait to put on a show for the fans.”

“Israil is a very special talent, people questioned putting him in a ten-round bout in his pro debut but he proved that he’s ready,” said Andrei Ryabinsky, head of World of Boxing. “We look forward to his fight on Saturday night and his continued march to a world title.”

Madrimov is guided by the noted manager, Vadim Kornilov. “We have very big plans for Israil, he’s going to be ready to fight for a world title in the near future. Saturday’s fight will air on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK and I’m excited to let fans and media see Israil in action. He’s the perfect complement to Dmitry Bivol’s world title challenge against Joe Smith Jr.”

Rojas has fought once previously in the United States challenging former world title challenger Jose Benavidez Jr. He is coming off a fourth-round knockout of Kervin Arambulet on December 22, 2018 in Venezuela.

ATLANTIC CITY–Dmitry Bivol retained the WBA Light Heavyweight title as he pounded out a 12-round unanimous decision over former champion Jean Pascal at The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.

Bivol mixed up his combinations as some started at the head while others focused on the body.  Pascal tried to keep Bivol honest by throwing some wild shots from distance.  Bivol was very solid and workmanlike throughout the 12-round affair that saw flashes of the old Pascal as he would occasionally get in with a wild shot.

Bivol, 174,4 lbs of St. Petersburg, RUS won by scores of 119-109 twice and 117-111 to stay unbeaten at 14-0.  Pascal, 174.6 lbs of Montreal, CAn is 33-6-1.

“Every time we shoot for a knockout,” said Bivol. “I try to show my boxing skills also. I hope everyone was happy with the fight, and I thank everyone for coming out to watch.

“(Pascal) used his experience and he was powerful in this fight. I used all of my skills to win this fight,” added Bivol.

“Bivol is a great young champion and I take my hat off to him as the top guy at light heavyweight,” said Pascal following the fight. “I was focused and prepared for this challenge, and I gave it my all, but unfortunately it wasn’t enough for me tonight.

“Now I will go back to Montreal with my head held high, enjoy some time with my family, and then after I take some time off I will sit down with (manager) Greg Leon and the rest of my team to see what’s next.”

What does Bivol’s future hold in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions? He has made no secret of wanting to unify the division. “I’m ready to fight (Eleider) Alvarez, (Sergey) Kovalev, or (Badou) Jack. Let’s make the fight,” said Bivol. But he didn’t limit himself to the champions. “Now I’m ready to fight everyone. Either light heavyweight or super middleweight,” said Bivol, who says he can make the 168 pound limit for the right opponent
Murodjon Akhmadaliev stopped Isaac Zarate in round nine of their scheduled 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Akhmadaliev landed the harder punches throughout.  He began to work the body in the middle rounds in an effort to break Zarate down.  That was  accomplished as he started to land heavy shots to the head.  Finally in round nine, Akhmadaliev landed a hard left that drove Zarate into the ropes, and the fight was stopped by referee Eric Dali after a follow up flurry at 1:17.

Akhmadaliev, 121.2 lbs of Namangan, UZB is 5-0 with four knockouts.  Zarate, 122 lbs of San Pedro, CA is 16-4-3.

“It went almost exactly as we thought it would go,” said Ahkmadaliev. “(Zarate) is a crafty and durable fighter and has a lot of experience. I knew I was to going to go in there and knock him out.

“The game plan was to go to the body and wear him down. I knew I was going to take a lot of punches while doing that and to get the job done. I learned a lot of lessons from Zarate. Now, I only want to fight for belts in the future,” said Ahkmadaliev.

Distinguished prospect Israil Madrimov  made a successful pro debut with a 6th stoppage over Vladimir Hernandez in a scheduled ten round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Madrimov started landing power shots that opened up a cut over the right eye of Hernandez.  In round three. Madrimov landed a bevy hard rights that drove Hernandez to the ropes and eventually to the canvas.

In round six, Madrimov continued the onslaught until referee Harvey Dock stopped the bout at 1:24.

Madrimov, 152.8 lbs of Khiva, UZB is 1-0 with one knockout.  Hernandez, 157.2 lbs of Durango, MX is 10-3.

“It was a debut for the title. The only time it happened in boxing history (before this) was (Vasyl) Lomachenko who fought for a title in his first fight,” said Madrimov. “I’m very pleased. The game plan was to do exactly what I did. I want to make history in boxing, and today was my first step.” Of his opponent Hernandez, Madrimov said, “I wasn’t surprised, we knew he is a very tough guy. When we kill the body, the head will fall.”

Shakhtam Giyasov made short work of Miguel Zamudio with a 1st round stoppage of their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

Seconds into the fight, Giyasov dropped Zamudio with a hard left hook.  After being dropped from a low, Giyasov scored his 2nd and final knockdown with a hard combination, and the bout was stopped at 2:41.

Giyasov, 141.2 lbs of Bukhara, UZB is 6-0 with five knockouts.  Zamudio, 142.2 lbs of Sinaloa, MEX is 41-12-1.

“We watched the opponent a lot, we knew he was a serious opponent. He has almost 50 professional fights,” said Giyasov. “But we worked on certain things that worked in this fight. I was glad to defeat such a good and experienced opponent. I’m ready for any fight that is given to me, I’m ready for anything in the next fight.”
Sergey Kuzmin remained undefeated with a 6th round stoppage over Laron Mitchell in a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Kuzmin landed a left hook that put Mitchell down.  Mitchell began to bleed over his left eye.  Kuzmin dropped Mitchell again in round five.

Kuzmin ended things with a 3rd knockdown in round six, and the bout was stopped at 2:37.

Kuzmin, 244.2 lbs of St. Petersburg, RUS is 14-0 with 11 knockouts.  Mitchell, 244.6 lbs of San Francisco, CA is 16-2.

“The fight was great, the fight went very good, as we planned,” said Kuzmin. Kuzmin said of Mitchell, “He was exciting, but he was more surprised by my punches.” Kuzmin says he will rest a little bit, “then get ready for the next fight, go to training camp and train, train, train.”

Logan Yoon remained undefeated by stopping Hamzah Sempewo in round five of their six-round welterweight bout.

Yoon scored two knockdowns in round four, and finished the fight off in round five with a flurry that forced referee Eric Dali to stop the action at 2:39.

Yoon, 143.4 lbs of Honolulu, HA is 14-0 with 11 knockouts,  Sempewo, 141.2 lbs of Mulago, UGA is 12-11.

Despite the stoppage, Yoon was a tough grader. “My performance wasn’t the best, I can always do better. But overall, it was OK. I give it a B-minus,” said Yoon. His plans moving forward: “We’re going back to the gym, training hard, and whatever knowledge we get from God, my manager, and my father, and from inside, that’s what we’ll do.”

Karl Dargan won an eight-round unanimous decision over Moises Delgadillio in a lighteight bout.

Dargan, 134.2 lbs of Philadelphia won on all cards by a 78-73 score, and is now 19-1. Delgadillio, 135 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 17-18-1.

Dargan said he’d hoped for a better performance. “My performance, it was OK, but not what I expected. I felt good, but I didn’t perform like I felt. Most important thing, he didn’t win and I did.” Dargan says he will make adjustments for his next fight. “It’s not anything I really have to change. Just things that need to be tuned up,” explained Dargan.

Former Olympic Gold Medal winner Evgeny Tischenko stopped Christian Mariscal in round two of their scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Tischenko dropped Mariscal with a straight left for referee Harvey Dock’s 10-count at 1:38.

Tischenko, 212 lbs of Beigorod, RUS is 3-0 with two knockouts. Mariscal, 246.4 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 11-2.

“I’m very pleased, I’m very happy that I had an opportunity to perform on such a big event on HBO Championship Boxing,” said Tishchenko. “One of the last shows, and I am pleased with my performance. I’m hoping to perform many more times here in the United States.”

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (November 9, 2018) — World of Boxing announced today the signing of international amateur standout ISRAIL “The Dream” MADRIMOV to an exclusive promotional agreement. Madrimov is scheduled to make his professional debut in a 10-round super welterweight bout, Saturday, November 24, on the undercard of the Dmitry Bivol – Jean Pascal WBA light heavyweight world championship fight. Bivol vs. Pascal and the Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev – Isaac Zarate WBA Intercontinental super bantamweight title fight will be televised live on the final edition of HBO World Championship Boxing from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Vladimir Atlantic City beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Madrimov’s opponent will be Vladimir Hernandez (10-2, 7 KOs), of Denver. Hernandez is looking to extend his two-year winning streak, which includes consecutive victories over the previously undefeated prospect Danny Valdivia.

“I am so excited to be making my professional debut on the same card as my World of Boxing compatriots Dmitry Bivol and Murodjon Akhmadaliev,” said Madrimov. “I am grateful to my manager Vadim Kornilov, Andrey Ryabinsky, and the World of Boxing team who have been so great to me and given me this great event to make my professional debut. I would also like to thank my coach Tulkin Kilichev for making me the fighter I have become. Their belief in me means more than anything. I am ready to show the fans that I am ready for anyone and anything in the ring. I am hungry for challenges and for a world title shot.”

“Madrimov is an outstanding amateur with a very good professional style. I think he was a born to be professional fighter,” said Andrei Ryabinskiy of World of Boxing.

“We are very happy to add Israil Madrimov to our team! He is really something special and we look forward to featuring him on the Bivol vs Pascal show,” added Vadim Kornilov,Madrimov’s manager.

Madrimov, 23, a native of Uzbekistan, has concluded a decorated amateur career. Named the best boxer of the World Series of Boxing in 2017, he has also earned gold medals at the 2018 Asian Olympic Games and the 2017 Asian games and silver medals at the 2011 World Amateur Championships, the 2013 Asian and 2014 Asian Olympic games. Now based in southern California, Madrimov is training under the guidance of his Dream team comprised of Tulkin Kilichev, Joel Diaz and Tony Diaz.

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