Bakhram Murtazaliev's Team Seeks IBF Rematch: A Fight for Justice
The boxing world is abuzz with the recent developments surrounding Bakhram Murtazaliev, the recently dethroned IBF 154lbs champion. Murtazaliev's team has filed a petition with the IBF, demanding an immediate rematch with Josh Kelly, the man who dethroned him in a controversial decision.
The Fight's Aftermath
On January 31, in Newcastle, England, Kelly emerged victorious over Murtazaliev via majority decision. The scores were close, with Kelly securing 115-111 and 114-113, while the third judge awarded an even 113-113. This outcome sparked debate, as many believed Murtazaliev deserved the nod, especially in the final round, where judge Steve Gray's 10-10 score was highly controversial.
Murtazaliev's Team Takes Action
Murtazaliev's team is now pursuing an immediate rematch, a move they hope will bring justice. They argue that a 10-9 score in Murtazaliev's favor in the final round would have resulted in a draw, allowing him to retain his IBF title. However, the IBF's rules regarding rematches are clear: Rule 5K grants the Championships Chairman and President the discretion to order a rematch within a prescribed time.
The IBF's Response
An IBF spokesperson confirmed the team's request, stating that they will consider it under Rule 5K. This rule provides a pathway for a second act in the boxing drama. Kelly, the appointed challenger, entered the fight with an 18-1-1 record, while Murtazaliev, with a 23-1 record, was overdue for a mandatory title defense.
The Backup Plan
Matchroom Boxing, the promoter, has a backup plan in place. Kelly is set to face WBA interim titleholder Jaron Ennis, unless Ennis secures a fight with Vergil Ortiz Jr., which is currently in the works. This potential showdown adds another layer of intrigue to the situation.
The Judges' Perspective
The judges' scores provide insight into the fight's dynamics. Judge John Basile, with a 115-111 score in Kelly's favor, awarded the 10th round to Kelly, while Judge Pawel Kardyni, with a 113-113 score, gave the 10th round to Murtazaliev. Gray's 10-10 score was in line with the other judges' views, but it remains a point of contention.
Murtazaliev's Journey
Murtazaliev's journey to the top has been filled with challenges. His last ring appearance was in October 2024, when he knocked out Tim Tszyu, a former WBO 154lbs titleholder. This victory marked his first successful title defense, having won the IBF title in April 2024 with an 11th-round knockout of Jack Culcay.
Main Events' Struggles
Murtazaliev's promoter, Main Events, has faced significant challenges post-Covid. Murtazaliev's fights have been presented by other promoters, and he has been compensated for his willingness to step aside. However, he has been denied a shot at the divisional king, Jermell Charlo, until Charlo rendered the title vacant.
The IBF's Appointment
The IBF's appointment of Kelly as the mandatory challenger was a last-minute decision, leading to a prolonged negotiation process. This delay further fueled the controversy surrounding the initial fight outcome.
A Complex Situation
The argument that Murtazaliev was wronged in the UK is complex. While the judges' scores are a point of contention, the IBF's rules and the judges' discretion add layers of complexity to the situation. Murtazaliev's team is now waiting for the IBF's decision, hoping for a fair resolution to this boxing saga.
The Future of Murtazaliev
Murtazaliev's future in boxing remains uncertain. His team's petition is a bold move, but the IBF's response will be crucial. The boxing world awaits the outcome, as Murtazaliev seeks justice and a chance to reclaim his title.
