Boxing Match Preview: Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-3-0, 21 KOs) vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk (21-2-0, 17 KOs)
Oleksandr Gvozdyk (21-2-0, 17 KOs), the former WBC light heavyweight champion and 2012 Olympic bronze medalist from Ukraine, faces Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic (29-3-0, 21 KOs), the Bosnian-American contender and former title challenger, in a 12-round light heavyweight bout. This co-feature on Zuffa Boxing 2 serves as a pivotal step for both fighters: Gvozdyk, returning from a long layoff and comeback trail, seeks to reclaim elite status after his 2019 stoppage loss to Artur Beterbiev, while Kalajdzic aims to bounce back from a 2024 unanimous decision defeat to David Morrell Jr. and prove his worth against a former world champion. Expect a tactical, high-level light heavyweight clash where Gvozdyk’s sharp southpaw jab and timing meet Kalajdzic’s aggressive pressure and power in a fight that could produce a late stoppage or competitive decision.
Venue Location
The fight will be held at the Meta Apex (UFC Apex) in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. This intimate 2,500-capacity venue, primarily known for UFC events, provides a controlled, high-production setting for Zuffa Boxing’s second card, with excellent broadcast quality and close-up action.
Ring walks are scheduled for 6:00 PM ET (3:00 PM PT / 12:00 AM GMT on February 2). Ring walks for Gvozdyk vs. Kalajdzic are expected around 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT / 3:00 AM GMT on February 2), broadcast live on Paramount+ in the US and available internationally via streaming platforms.
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter leading into the bout. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Gvozdyk has been positioned carefully since his comeback from retirement and prior inactivity, while Kalajdzic’s 2024 loss to Morrell was non-injury related, and he enters cleared and focused.
Oleksandr Gvozdyk:
No reported issues; fully healthy and sharp in camp.
Radivoje Kalajdzic:
No injuries noted; durable throughout his career.
Fighter Matchups
This light heavyweight bout contrasts Gvozdyk’s technical southpaw mastery with Kalajdzic’s aggressive orthodox pressure.
Oleksandr Gvozdyk (age 38-39, 6’3″, 78″ reach, southpaw): A disciplined boxer-puncher with excellent jab, timing, and ring generalship. His 81% KO rate reflects power and accuracy, excelling in controlling space and countering. Weaknesses include age-related decline in speed and potential vulnerability to sustained pressure after long layoffs.
Radivoje Kalajdzic (age 34-35, 6’3″, 78″ reach, orthodox): A powerful pressure fighter with heavy hands (72% KO rate) and forward aggression. He breaks opponents down with volume and body work. Weaknesses include struggles against elite speed and distance control, as seen in losses to Morrell and Beterbiev.
Key Stylistic Clash: Gvozdyk’s southpaw jab and counters vs. Kalajdzic’s orthodox pressure. Gvozdyk must maintain range and avoid being backed up; Kalajdzic needs to close distance and force exchanges.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Gvozdyk’s technique and experience favor him in a tactical fight; Kalajdzic’s power and aggression offer upset potential if he lands early.
X-Factor: Gvozdyk’s age and layoff—rust could hinder him against Kalajdzic’s pace, but if sharp, his jab dominates.
Recent Form
Gvozdyk has been selective since his comeback, while Kalajdzic has faced top competition with mixed results.
Oleksandr Gvozdyk (Last 5: W-W-W-W-L prior to layoff):
Recent: Strong comeback wins in 2025, including decisions and stoppages.
Form Notes: Durable and technical; high win rate post-retirement, with 81% KO rate overall.
Radivoje Kalajdzic (Last 5: L-W-W-W-W):
August 3, 2024: UD 12 loss vs. David Morrell Jr. (WBA title fight).
Prior: Wins over solid opposition.
Form Notes: 1 loss in recent years; powerful but vulnerable to skilled boxers.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | KO % (Career) | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Oleksandr Gvozdyk | W-W-W-W-L | 81% | 9-10 | Former WBC champ |
| Radivoje Kalajdzic | L-W-W-W-W | 72% | 10 | Aggressive contender |
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Gvozdyk and Kalajdzic, with no prior head-to-head or shared opponents. Gvozdyk’s championship path meets Kalajdzic’s contender journey in a fresh light heavyweight matchup.
FIGHT ODDS
Radivoje Kalajdzic + 160
Oleksandr Gvozdyk – 195
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025
