New Player At 154lbs : Magomed Kurbanov Defeats Liam Smith

By: Steven Galeano

Magomed ‘Black Lion’ Kurbanov (22-0, 13 KOs) took a major step towards a world title shot, defeating former world titlist Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (29-3-1, 16 KOs) on Friday in Ekaterinburg, Russia. Kurbanov gained the WBO Worldwide Tremendous Welterweight title, however extra importantly, positioned himself nearer to a world title alternative towards the winner of the upcoming unification between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castano.

Scores had been – 117-112, 115-113, 115-113, all for Kurbanov.

Russia’s Kurbanov (WBA/WBO #5, IBF #15) secured the kind of signature victory that may announce himself on the world title stage. England’s Smith’s (WBO #2) earlier defeats got here in world title fights. In 2016, Smith suffered his first defeat (KO9) to Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez (55-1-2, 37 KOs), dropping the WBO 154lb belt in his third title protection. Then in 2018, Smith misplaced a unanimous choice to Jaime Munguia, in an try to regain the WBO title. Smith had beforehand gained three straight since dropping to Munguia.

Kurbanov now figures to maneuver as much as #2 within the WBO behind Tim Tszyu (18-0, 14 KOs), of Australia. Tszyu is the son of Corridor of Famer Kosta Tszyu.

The WBO champion, Castano (17-0-1, 12 KOs), faces WBC/WBA/IBF champion Charlo (34-1, 18KOs) on July 17 to find out an undisputed champion at 154lbs. As different organizations kind out obligatory challengers, it appears pure that the WBO orders a last elimination bout between Tszyu and Kurbanov. Nonetheless, with all 4 belts being contested, high contenders at 154lbs determine to attend prolonged durations of time earlier than receiving a world title shot.

With this huge victory, Kurbanov at 25-years-old is destined to see his WBA and IBF rankings dramatically enhance as nicely.

It didn’t come with no powerful night time. The bout between Kurbanov and Smith was hotly contested, the Russian native pulled forward early, successful the primary few rounds earlier than Smith in the end rallied in the course of the halfway level. Whereas at instances it appeared like Smith was able to take over, Kurbanov responded along with his personal flurries till the ultimate bell.

Smith, 32, will definitely make one other title run as he once more proved himself as a world-class operator. At this stage, a world title combat appears distant however on the home degree, there’ll undoubtedly be profitable alternatives for him.

The 12-round bout was promoted by RCC Boxing Promotions, who at present deal with Kurbanov.