In a thrilling development for boxing enthusiasts, Caoimhin Agyarko, the pride of Belfast, is on the cusp of securing a world title shot. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has mandated a final eliminator bout between Agyarko and California’s Brandon Adams, with the victor earning the right to challenge Bakhram Murtazaliev for the light-middleweight crown. Murtazaliev is set to defend his title against England’s Josh Kelly in Newcastle on January 31, making the stakes even higher for the Agyarko-Adams clash.
The IBF’s directive has set the stage for a high-stakes showdown. Agyarko, known as ‘Black Thunder,’ expressed his enthusiasm and hope that the fight will take place in his hometown. ‘There has been no talk of where it will be just yet; hopefully, we can get it back in Belfast,’ Agyarko shared. ‘That’s always the plan, to fight back home as much as possible.’
Agyarko’s journey to this pivotal moment has been marked by perseverance and dedication. His recent victories, including a hard-fought split decision win over Ishmael Davis in September 2025, have propelled him into the spotlight. ‘It was good news for once, so I was buzzing when I heard the news,’ Agyarko said. ‘It would mean a lot to secure a world title shot. It’s everything I’ve worked hard for since I was a kid. Now I’m just one fight away.’
The Belfast native admitted to being surprised by the IBF’s decision, as he had been focusing on the WBA route. ‘I hadn’t a clue it was coming,’ he said. ‘The plan was always to go down the WBA route as I’ve been ranked with them the longest, so I was quite surprised when my manager told me we have a final eliminator with the IBF.’
While Agyarko has not yet begun studying Adams’ fighting style, he is confident in his abilities. ‘I haven’t watched Adams. I honestly couldn’t tell you his fighting style. Once the fight is officially made, I’ll study him,’ Agyarko stated. ‘Control the controllable; no point studying a fighter when the fight isn’t…’
The negotiations for the fight’s venue and date are ongoing, with a purse bid hearing scheduled for January 6, 2026, if an agreement is not reached by December 5. This additional time allows both camps to finalize the details and potentially set the stage for a memorable night of boxing in Belfast.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of these negotiations, one thing is certain: Caoimhin Agyarko is poised to make his mark on the international stage, bringing pride and excitement to his hometown of Belfast.
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