Vinny's Corner

On January 31, 2026, undefeated IBF champion Bakhram Murtazaliev will defend his title against British challenger Josh Kelly at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, England. This marks Murtazaliev’s second defense of the belt he captured in dramatic fashion, and it promises to be a test of power versus finesse. Promoted by Matchroom Boxing, the event features a compelling main event that could shape the future of the 154-pound class. 4 Let’s dive into the details of the fighters, analyze the matchup, and wrap up with viewing options.

Breaking Down the Fighters

Bakhram Murtazaliev, a 31-year-old from Grozny, Russia, now based in Oxnard, California, enters the ring with an impeccable professional record of 23 wins, 0 losses, and 17 knockouts, a staggering 74% KO rate.

Known for his brutal pressure style, Murtazaliev is a forward-marching fighter who overwhelms opponents with heavy shots and unyielding aggression. His career highlights include a dominant run in the U.S., where he built a reputation as one of the most avoided prospects in the division.

Murtazaliev’s breakthrough came in 2024 when he claimed the vacant IBF super welterweight title with a unanimous decision over Jack Culcay in Germany. He followed that up with a statement-making first defense, stopping the highly regarded Tim Tszyu in just three rounds via a devastating knockout. A performance that announced him as a force to be reckoned with.

His power is his calling card; opponents often crumble under his relentless barrages. Standing at 6 feet tall with a 72-inch reach, Murtazaliev uses his size to close distances quickly, trapping foes against the ropes and unloading combinations.

While not the flashiest boxer, his fundamentals are solid, and his conditioning allows him to maintain pressure over 12 rounds if needed. 17 Murtazaliev’s undefeated streak spans over a decade, with key wins over tough contenders like Jorge Fortea and Szergej Vorobjev, showcasing his ability to handle both brawlers and technicians.

Josh Kelly, a 31-year-old from Sunderland, England, brings a blend of Olympic pedigree and professional polish to the fight. His record stands at 17 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with 9 knockouts (53% KO rate).

Nicknamed “Pretty Boy Kelly” (PBK), he represented Great Britain at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he gained experience against top amateurs. Turning pro in 2017, Kelly has developed into a skilled boxer-puncher with exceptional speed and footwork.

At 5’10” with a 72-inch reach, Kelly is an orthodox fighter who relies on his jab to control range, quick counters, and lateral movement to evade power shots. His career hit a bump in 2021 with a sixth-round TKO loss to David Avanesyan, exposing vulnerabilities under sustained pressure, followed by a draw against Troy Williamson. However, Kelly has rebounded impressively, riding a seven-fight win streak that includes capturing the British super welterweight title.

Notable victories include stoppages over Peter Kramer and Placido Ramirez, demonstrating his ability to mix sharp boxing with timely power. Kelly’s style is flashy and evasive, often compared to a poor man’s Floyd Mayweather for his shoulder rolls and pot-shotting, but he can dig in when needed. Fighting in his home country adds a motivational edge, as he aims to become the first from Sunderland to win a world title.

Fight Analysis

This matchup pits Murtazaliev’s aggressive, pressure-heavy approach against Kelly’s slick, movement-based boxing—a classic clash of styles that could produce fireworks or a tactical chess match.

Murtazaliev’s strengths lie in his knockout power and ability to cut off the ring, forcing opponents into uncomfortable exchanges. He’s proven he can end fights early, as seen in his demolition of Tszyu, where his body work and uppercuts broke down a durable foe. However, his forward momentum could leave him open to counters if Kelly stays disciplined.

Kelly’s path to victory involves using his superior footwork to circle away from Murtazaliev’s advances, peppering with jabs and quick combinations while avoiding prolonged trades. His speed could frustrate the champion early, potentially tiring Murtazaliev if the fight goes deep. But Kelly’s chin has been questioned after the Avanesyan loss, and facing a puncher like Murtazaliev, who hits harder than anyone Kelly has met, poses a significant risk. If Kelly gets backed up, his defensive habits might falter under the Russian’s volume.

Overall, the fight favors Murtazaliev due to his experience against top-tier opposition and proven finishing ability. Kelly’s home crowd in Newcastle could provide a boost, but the champion’s pressure might overwhelm the challenger’s elusiveness as rounds progress. 31 Expect an intense battle, with the potential for a late stoppage if Kelly slows down.

Official Pick

Murtazaliev by TKO in round 8. The champion’s power and relentless style should prove too much for Kelly, who, despite his skills, may struggle to keep the fight at range against such a determined aggressor.

Where to Watch

The event will be broadcast live on DAZN worldwide, with coverage starting at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday January 31, 2026.

Main event ring walks are expected around 4:30 pm ET, though timings can shift based on undercard results.

By Vincent

Photo courtesy of Matchroom Boxing