YEKATERINBURG — Former IBF super-welterweight world champion Bakhram Murtazaliev is set to appear on the undercard of the upcoming light-heavyweight title bout between Dmitry Bivol and Callum Smith on December 12. While the main event remains subject to WBO sanctioning approval for a contest in Russia, promoters RCC Promotions and Matchroom Boxing are moving forward with building the supporting bill.
Murtazaliev’s inclusion was reported by Dan Rafael, who noted the fighter's return to the ring following his January 31 loss to Josh Kelly in England. “Per source involved, former IBF 154 titlist Bakhram Murtazaliev will fight on the Dmitry Bivol-Callum Smith undercard on Dec. 12 in Ekatirinburg, Russia,” Rafael stated. Potential opponents for the 33-year-old include Caoimhin Agyarko and Pavel Sosulin.
The main event features Bivol defending his WBO, WBA, and IBF titles against mandatory challenger Callum Smith. Bivol last competed in May, securing a unanimous decision victory over Michael Eifert before undergoing elbow surgery. Smith is preparing for his return after a 22-month hiatus. Organizers are currently awaiting a decision from the WBO regarding the venue, following the organization's previous refusal to sanction Bivol’s bout against Eifert in Russia.