Josh Kelly Stuns Unbeaten Murtazaliev, Claims IBF World Title in Career-Best Performance

Newcastle, England – Josh Kelly, the 2016 British Olympian, delivered the performance of his career on Saturday afternoon at the Utilita Arena, dethroning previously unbeaten Bakhram Murtazaliev to claim the IBF super welterweight world title. It was a major upset, decided by a majority decision (113-113, 115-111, 114-113), marking a remarkable turnaround for Kelly after a challenging period in his professional journey.

From Olympian Promise to World Champion

Kelly's potential was widely recognized early in his professional career following his Olympic stint. However, a sixth-round stoppage loss to David Avanesyan in 2021 temporarily halted his ascent. Undeterred, Kelly embarked on an impressive comeback, securing eight consecutive victories leading up to this championship bout. This crucial winning streak included notable triumphs over current British champions Troy Williamson and Ishmael Davis, demonstrating his renewed focus and capabilities. His victory tonight not only crowns him a world champion but also marks a significant personal and professional redemption.

Tactical Brilliance and Crucial Knockdown

Against the powerful Murtazaliev, Kelly (18-1-1, 9 KOs) employed a masterful strategy, utilizing sublime movement, a sharp jab, and pinpoint counter-punching to outbox his slower Russian opponent over the full 12 rounds. The turning point arrived in Round 4 when Kelly landed a critical counter left hand, sending Murtazaliev to the canvas. While the now-former champion was not overtly troubled by the knockdown, it provided Kelly with a crucial two-point advantage, proving instrumental in the final scoring. According to Yahoo Sports, Kelly’s early breakthrough was a testament to his sharp counter-punching.

Weathering the Storm and Hometown Heroics

Kelly continued to control the middle rounds, showcasing his superior boxing skills. However, the intensity of the fight began to take its toll, and Kelly appeared to slow heading into Round 9. It was during this round that Murtazaliev (23-1, 17 KOs) capitalized, dropping Kelly with a left hook at the halfway point. Under immense pressure, Kelly demonstrated remarkable composure, moving and holding to weather Murtazaliev's relentless pursuit for a finish and escape to Round 10. The energy from the Newcastle crowd was palpable, with Kelly himself admitting post-fight, "If it weren't for this crowd and the energy behind us, I wouldn't have got up and carried on, I don't think." He celebrated becoming "The first world champion from Sunderland, and that's another from the northeast."

A Strong Finish and Future Prospects

Murtazaliev mounted a strong finish, applying heavy pressure and landing combinations up close in the championship rounds. However, Kelly’s consistent jab and counter-punching continued to find their mark, even in the Russian’s best moments. Despite a late surge that tightened the gap on the scorecards, it wasn't enough for Murtazaliev to retain his title. With this victory, Kelly has firmly established himself at the elite level of the super welterweight division.

Looking ahead, Kelly’s promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom, indicated a significant next step. According to Hearn, Kelly had already agreed to terms to face former unified welterweight champion Jaron "Boots" Ennis prior to tonight's fight. This potential clash promises to be an exciting prospect for boxing fans, pitting two highly skilled fighters against each other in what could be another career-defining moment for Kelly. Yahoo Sports reports that a fight with Ennis could be next for the newly crowned champion.

Undercard Highlights

The main card also featured other significant bouts. Elif Nur Turhan successfully defended her IBF lightweight title against Taylah Gentzen in a split decision (93-97, 98-92, 96-94). Turhan, who had a breakout 2025 campaign with three knockout victories, continued her strong form. Elsewhere, Josh Padley secured a second-round KO victory over Jaouad Belmehdi in their super featherweight clash, and Leo Atang delivered a third-round KO against Amine Boucetta in the heavyweight division.