Josh Kelly Stuns Boxing World: Claims IBF Super Welterweight Title in Newcastle Thriller

In a breathtaking turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, Josh Kelly, the pride of Sunderland, has etched his name into the annals of British boxing history. On the hallowed grounds of Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, Kelly delivered a career-defining performance to dethrone the hitherto undefeated Bakhram Murtazaliev and claim the IBF Super Welterweight World Title.

The night of January 31, 2026, will forever be remembered as a watershed moment in Kelly’s career. Entering the ring as a significant underdog, with odds stacked against him at +300, the 31-year-old British sensation defied all expectations to secure a majority decision victory over his formidable Russian opponent. The judges’ scorecards read 115-111, 114-113, and 113-113, a testament to the closely contested nature of the bout.

Kelly’s path to victory was anything but smooth. The fourth round saw him deliver a thunderous right hand that sent Murtazaliev crashing to the canvas, a moment that electrified the crowd and hinted at the upset that was unfolding. However, the Russian champion, known for his resilience and power, retaliated in the ninth round with a devastating left hook that floored Kelly. In a display of sheer determination and grit, Kelly rose from the canvas and battled through the championship rounds with unwavering resolve.

This triumph marks Kelly’s eighth consecutive victory since his transition to the 154-pound division, a journey that has culminated in him becoming Sunderland’s first world champion. The significance of this achievement is not lost on the British boxing community, as Kelly joins an elite group of current male British world champions, bringing the total to six.

The Utilita Arena bore witness to a night of thrilling action, with several other notable bouts adding to the excitement. Josh Padley secured a second-round knockout victory over Jaouad Belmehdi in the Super Featherweight division. Elif Nur Turhan emerged triumphant in a closely contested split decision over Taylah Gentzen in the Lightweight category. The Heavyweight division saw Leo Atang deliver a third-round knockout to Amine Boucetta, while Josh Blenkiron outpointed Robbie Colman in a ten-round Lightweight contest. The Bantamweight division featured Kiaran MacDonald and Lee Rogers, both securing decision victories over their respective opponents, Marius Vysniauskas and Erick Omar Lopez.

As the dust settles on this monumental night, Josh Kelly stands tall as the new IBF Super Welterweight World Champion, his name forever etched in the rich tapestry of British boxing history. His journey from underdog to champion serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers and a reminder that in the world of sports, the impossible can become possible with unwavering belief and relentless determination.