Boxing Match Preview: Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0-0, 19 KOs) vs. Josh Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs)
IBF Junior Middleweight Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0-0, 19 KOs), the undefeated Russian powerhouse known as “The Boogeyman,” makes his second title defense against mandatory challenger Josh Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs), the British Olympian and Sunderland native with a seven-fight win streak. This 12-round main event headlines a Matchroom Boxing card at Utilita Arena, pitting Murtazaliev’s devastating knockout power and pressure against Kelly’s hand speed, movement, and technical boxing. Murtazaliev enters after a 15-month layoff since his brutal 2024 stoppage of Tim Tszyu, while Kelly seeks his first world title in a high-stakes test. Expect a tense, physical battle where Murtazaliev’s power could end it early if he closes distance, or Kelly’s elusiveness forces a grueling decision.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at Utilita Arena in Newcastle, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom. This 11,000-capacity venue is a premier UK boxing destination, renowned for its electric crowd atmosphere during major domestic and international title fights.
Ring walks are scheduled for 6:00 PM GMT (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT). Ring walks for the main event are expected around 10:00 PM GMT (5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT), broadcast live on DAZN worldwide.
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into fight week. Both completed full training camps without setbacks, though Murtazaliev’s long layoff raises questions about ring rust rather than physical issues.
Bakhram Murtazaliev:
No reported injuries. Murtazaliev has been inactive since October 2024 but appears sharp in camp, with no health concerns noted.
Josh Kelly:
No injuries mentioned. Kelly has stayed active with a win in June 2025 and full preparation for this title shot.
Fighter Matchups
This junior middleweight title fight contrasts Murtazaliev’s relentless pressure and knockout power with Kelly’s speed and defensive boxing.
Bakhram Murtazaliev (5’11¾”, 6’2″ reach, orthodox): A devastating puncher with a 83% KO rate, Murtazaliev uses a stiff jab to close distance, body work to slow opponents, and explosive power in exchanges. His style overwhelms with forward aggression, but he can be vulnerable to skilled movers if unable to trap them.
Josh Kelly (6’0″, orthodox): A fast-handed boxer with excellent footwork and ring IQ, Kelly relies on movement, jabs, and counters to outpoint foes. His 53% KO rate is lower, favoring decisions, but he struggles against heavy pressure fighters in close range.
Key Stylistic Clash: Murtazaliev’s pursuit and power vs. Kelly’s distance control and evasion. Murtazaliev must cut off the ring to land heavy shots; Kelly needs to box on the back foot and frustrate.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Murtazaliev’s power (19 KOs in 23 wins) and durability give him an edge in chaos; Kelly’s speed and seven-fight streak offer upset potential if he avoids brawls.
X-Factor: Layoff impact—Murtazaliev’s 15-month absence could dull timing, benefiting Kelly’s movement.
Recent Form
Murtazaliev remains undefeated but inactive, while Kelly has rebuilt strongly post-2021 loss.
Bakhram Murtazaliev (Last 5: W-W-W-W-W):
October 2024: TKO 3 vs. Tim Tszyu (brutal stoppage, retained IBF title).
April 2024: TKO 11 vs. Jack Culcay (won vacant IBF title).
Form Notes: Murtazaliev stopped 4 of last 5, with high KO rate and dominance, but no activity in 2025.
Josh Kelly (Last 5: W-W-W-W-W):
June 2025: KO 1 vs. Flavius Biea (quick stoppage).
Prior wins: Seven straight, including British/International titles at super welterweight.
Form Notes: Kelly has won 7 consecutive, mixing decisions and stoppages, showing improved finishing.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | KO % (Career) | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Bakhram Murtazaliev | W-W-W-W-W | 83% | ~6.0 | Devastating power |
| Josh Kelly | W-W-W-W-W | 53% | ~8.0 | Seven-fight streak |
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Murtazaliev and Kelly, with no prior head-to-head or shared opponents. Murtazaliev’s path includes elite wins like Tszyu; Kelly’s includes domestic titles but a 2021 TKO loss to David Avanesyan highlighting pressure vulnerabilities.
FIGHT ODDS
Bakhram Murtazaliev – 300
Josh Kelly + 225
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025
