Josh Kelly Triumphs Over Bakhram Murtazaliev in Epic IBF Showdown

In a stunning upset that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, Josh Kelly dethroned the previously undefeated IBF super welterweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev in a thrilling 12-round bout at the Newcastle Arena. The fight, which took place on January 31st, 2026, was a masterclass in determination and skill, culminating in a majority decision victory for the British underdog.

Kelly, a former Olympian with a record of 17-1-1 (9 KOs), entered the ring as the No.16 contender in the light middleweight division. His only loss came in 2021 against David Avanesyan, but since then, he has been on an impressive winning streak, securing seven consecutive victories. Murtazaliev, on the other hand, boasted a perfect record of 23-0-0 (17 KOs) and had not fought since 2024. Despite his impressive resume, Murtazaliev was unable to overcome the relentless pressure and precision of Kelly.

The fight was a tactical battle from the outset, with both fighters showcasing their skills and resilience. Kelly’s jab proved to be a crucial weapon, keeping Murtazaliev at bay and setting up his combinations. In the fourth round, a well-timed jab from Kelly sent Murtazaliev to the canvas, marking a turning point in the fight. Despite Murtazaliev’s attempts to rally, Kelly maintained his composure and continued to outbox the champion.

The judges’ scorecards reflected the closely contested nature of the bout, with scores of 115-111, 114-113, and 113-113. The majority decision victory for Kelly was met with jubilation from the Newcastle crowd, who had come out in full force to support their local hero.

This victory marks a significant milestone in Kelly’s career, as he becomes the UK’s sixth reigning men’s world champion. The co-main event of the evening saw Elif Nur Turhan successfully defend her IBF lightweight title against Taylah Gentzen, adding to the excitement of the night.

The undercard also featured several notable bouts, including a shot at the vacant European belt. The evening was a testament to the thriving boxing scene in the UK, with fans treated to a night of high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.

For Kelly, the journey to this world title has been long and arduous, but his perseverance and dedication have finally paid off. As he basked in the glory of his victory, Kelly acknowledged the support of his fans and the hard work of his team, promising more exciting fights in the future.

The boxing world now looks ahead to what promises to be an exciting year, with Kelly’s name firmly etched among the elite. His triumph over Murtazaliev is a reminder that in the sport of boxing, anything is possible, and the underdog can always rise to the occasion.