In a thrilling night of boxing at the Newcastle Arena, Josh Kelly etched his name into the annals of British boxing history by dethroning the formidable IBF super welterweight champion, Bakhram Murtazaliev. The Sunderland native, known for his Olympic pedigree and relentless determination, faced his toughest challenge yet against the undefeated Russian champion.
Kelly, who moved up to the super-welterweight division in 2022 after a tough loss to David Avanesyan, has been on a mission to prove his mettle at the world level. Despite not having faced world-level opposition in this division before, Kelly’s notable victories have showcased his skill and resilience. Tonight, he added the most significant win of his career to his record.
The fight was a tactical battle from the outset, with both fighters displaying their unique strengths. Murtazaliev, known for his destructive power, seemed to be finding his rhythm in the fourth round, landing a sharp left hand that sent a clear message to Kelly. However, the British underdog was not to be deterred. In a swift counterattack, Kelly fired a precise jab that sent Murtazaliev crashing to the canvas, much to the delight of the roaring Newcastle crowd.
The victory was not just a testament to Kelly’s physical prowess but also his mental fortitude. Critics had questioned his ability to handle the pressure of a world title fight, but Kelly silenced them with a performance that will be remembered for years to come. The win makes Kelly the UK’s sixth reigning men’s world champion, a feat that underscores his dedication and hard work.
The undercard of the evening also provided plenty of excitement. Elif Nur Turhan successfully defended her IBF lightweight title against Taylah Gentzen in a co-feature bout. Turhan, who had a spectacular 2025 with three victories and three knockouts, continued her dominance in the lightweight division with a commanding performance.
Another notable fight on the undercard saw Josh Padley and A shot at the vacant European belt, adding to the evening’s high stakes. The Newcastle Arena was electric, with fans treated to a night of world-class boxing that showcased the best of the sport.
For Josh Kelly, this victory is just the beginning. With the IBF super welterweight title now around his waist, the future looks bright for this British star. His journey from the GB podium squad to world champion is a story of perseverance and triumph, and the boxing world will be watching closely to see what he does next.
Team_TBE Boxing
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