IBA PRO 19 Moscow: A Heavyweight Showdown
The highly anticipated IBA PRO 19 event is set to take place on July 11th at the iconic VTB Arena in Moscow, promising an action-packed evening of championship boxing. This event will showcase the best of the heavyweight division, with a main event that is sure to captivate fans worldwide.
A Title Defense and a Late Replacement
The main event will see WBA heavyweight world champion Murat "Iron" Gassiev (RUS) defend his title against the formidable German heavyweight Peter Kadiru (GER). This bout was originally scheduled to feature Tony Yoka (FRA), but a back injury forced his withdrawal, leading to Kadiru's unexpected opportunity. With a professional record of 33-2 and 26 knockouts, Gassiev is a force to be reckoned with, having recently captured the WBA title with a stunning knockout victory over Kubrat Pulev. His return to Moscow for the first defense of his championship reign is a significant moment in Russian boxing.
Kadiru, with a record of 23-1 and 13 knockouts, is no stranger to success. His unanimous decision victory over Senad Gashi in May solidified his status as a rising star in German boxing. Despite the late replacement, Kadiru is determined to make a statement in Moscow, aiming to pull off a major upset and transform his career with a single victory.
A Co-Main Event and Bare Knuckle Bouts
In the co-main event, Artem Suslenkov (RUS) will step into the ring against Joe Joyce (GBR) in a 12-round heavyweight bout for the WBA Continental title. This highly anticipated match-up will showcase the skills of two talented boxers, with Suslenkov looking to make a strong case for a world title shot and Joyce aiming to solidify his position as a top contender.
Adding to the excitement, the card will also feature two IBA Bare Knuckle bouts, introducing a unique combat sports format to the evening's program. These bare-knuckle fights will provide a different dynamic and showcase the raw, intense nature of the sport.
A Must-See Event
IBA PRO 19 promises to be a thrilling showcase of heavyweight boxing, with a main event that could have significant implications for the division. The late replacement adds an intriguing layer of unpredictability, making this event a must-watch for boxing enthusiasts worldwide. The co-main event and bare knuckle bouts further enhance the card, ensuring an unforgettable night of action and drama at the VTB Arena.
