Boxing Match Preview: Elif Nur Turhan (12-0-0, 8 KOs) vs. Taylah Gentzen (8-1-0, 3 KOs)
Undefeated IBF Women’s Lightweight Champion Elif Nur Turhan (12-0-0, 8 KOs), the 30-year-old Turkish knockout artist known for her devastating power and aggressive style, makes her first title defense against Australian challenger Taylah Gentzen (8-1-0, 3 KOs), a 28-year-old resilient contender with technical boxing skills and recent regional success. This 10-round bout headlines the women’s action on the Bakhram Murtazaliev vs. Josh Kelly undercard, pitting Turhan’s explosive finishing ability against Gentzen’s durability and counterpunching in a clash that could solidify Turhan’s status as a rising star or propel Gentzen into global contention. Expect a high-intensity affair where Turhan’s power tests Gentzen’s chin, potentially leading to a stoppage if the champion lands clean, or a gritty decision if the challenger weathers the storm.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at Utilita Arena in Newcastle, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom. This 11,000-capacity multi-purpose venue is a hub for UK boxing events, known for its passionate crowds and electric atmosphere during domestic and international cards.
Ring walks are scheduled for 6:00 PM GMT (1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT). Ring walks for Turhan vs. Gentzen are expected around 8:00-9:00 PM GMT (3:00-4:00 PM ET / 12:00-1:00 PM PT), broadcast live on DAZN worldwide.
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into the bout. Both completed full training camps without disruptions, and recent previews confirm no health concerns or setbacks as of January 2026.
Elif Nur Turhan:
No reported injuries; she has been in peak form with no issues mentioned in her 2025 campaign.
Taylah Gentzen:
No reported injuries; coming off a win with full preparation for this international step-up.
Fighter Matchups
This IBF Women’s Lightweight Title fight contrasts Turhan’s knockout power and aggressive pressure with Gentzen’s technical resilience and counterpunching, setting up a compelling battle at 135 pounds.
Elif Nur Turhan (5’7″, orthodox): A dominant puncher with a 67% KO rate, Turhan excels in mid-range exchanges, body work, and overwhelming opponents with volume and precision. Her style is aggressive yet calculated, using feints to set up power shots. However, she can be tested by durable movers who avoid her traps.
Taylah Gentzen (5’8″, orthodox): A versatile boxer with a 38% KO rate, Gentzen relies on footwork, jabs, and counters to outpoint foes. Her amateur background (60+ fights) aids in endurance, but she can struggle against high-output punchers if drawn into brawls.
Key Stylistic Clash: Turhan’s forward pressure and power vs. Gentzen’s mobility and counters. Turhan may aim to cut off the ring for inside work, while Gentzen could use her reach for potshots.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Turhan’s KO streak gives her finishing edge, but Gentzen’s experience in decisions could force a long night if she avoids power.
X-Factor: Turhan’s recent stoppage run vs. Gentzen’s durability— if Gentzen survives early, her volume could sway judges.
Recent FormTurhan rides a knockout wave into her defense, while Gentzen shows resilience after a lone loss.
Elif Nur Turhan (Last 5: W-W-W-W-W):
Dec 6, 2025: TKO 5 vs. Beatriz Ferreira (won IBF title, dominant performance).
Aug 2025: TKO vs. Rima Ayadi.
Mar 2025: KO vs. opponent in buildup.
Form Notes: Turhan won all 2025 fights by KO (3-4 stoppages), earning Fighter of the Year nods with overwhelming power.
Taylah Gentzen (Last 5: W-W-W-L-W):
Dec 6, 2025: Win vs. Jessica Adams (details UD/TKO, maintaining form).
Sep 2025: TKO 2 vs. Maureen Chand (WBA Oceania title).
Jul 2025: UD 10 vs. Deanha Hobbs (won vacant title).
Jan 2025: SD loss vs. Shauna Browne.
Form Notes: Gentzen won 4 of last 5, with 2 stoppages, showing growth but exposed in close decisions.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | KO % (Career) | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Elif Nur Turhan | W-W-W-W-W | 67% | 5.0 | Knockout streak |
| Taylah Gentzen | W-W-W-L-W | 38% | 7.0 | Regional title holder |
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Turhan and Gentzen, with no prior head-to-head history or shared opponents. Turhan’s international rise meets Gentzen’s regional dominance in a fresh matchup for the IBF title.
FIGHT ODDS
Elif Nur Turhan – 1400
Taylah Gentzen + 900
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025
