Josh Kelly stars in his maiden world title challenge against destructive champion Bakhram Murtazaliev at the Newcastle Arena tonight.
The 2016 Olympian moved up to the super-welterweight ranks back in 2022 following a bruising loss to David Avanesyan, but has not yet faced world-level opposition in the division. He has, however, scored notable victories over Troy Williamson and Ishmael Davis on the big stage.
Russia’s Murtazaliev is an undeniable step up, known best to boxing fans for his three-round demolition of Tim Tsyzu last time out in October 2024. Could the long layoff, paired with Kelly’s slick style and the home advantage, spell trouble for the champion? Or will Murtazaliev’s steely composure and raw power see him remain undefeated and with the IBF belt firmly in hand?
Following the prelims, the undercard features rising heavyweight star Leo Atang in his fourth bout and likely fourth stoppage victory, Turkey’s Elif Nur Turhan looking to continue a knockout streak of her own and defend her lightweight belt, and Josh Padley challenging for the vacant European title at 130lbs.
Boxing News brings you the undercard results, summaries and a live scorecard for the main event.
Undercard results
Leo Atang vs Amine Boucetta — Heavyweight
Result: Atang KO 3. 19-year-old heavyweight prospect Atang taken past the opening round for the first time, finishing the job in the third when Boucetta took a knee off the back of a body shot and failed to make the count. It was the performance that was expected of the potential future star, who showed his speed, athleticism and good variation to head and body. It may be compared to Moses Itauma’s fight against the same man in 2023 — his fifth bout and a knockout in 90 seconds.
Elif Nur Turhan vs Taylah Gentzen — IBF World Lightweight World Title
Result: –
Josh Padley vs Jaouad Belmehdi — EBU European Super Featherweight Title
Result: –
Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Josh Kelly scorecard and result
This is a Boxing News live scorecard and not the official score from the judges.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murtazaliev | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Kelly | 0 |
Result: –
