Two of Russian boxing’s most dangerous cruiserweight contenders will collide on 11 July at VTB Arena in Moscow as Mural “Champion” Khalidov and Arslan Yallyev square off on the undercard of the blockbuster IBA PRO 19 event. 

The all-Russian showdown brings together two contenders from Dagestan whose paths have crossed for years, but who now find themselves competing for far more than regional pride. With both men seeking to strengthen their position in the national rankings and move closer to major international opportunities, the bout carries significant implications for the future of the cruiserweight division.

With contrasting styles, regional pride, ranking implications and a place on one of the biggest boxing events of the year, the stage is set for an explosive encounter between two men determined to make a statement under the bright lights of Moscow.

Yallyev, with 17 victories (11 KOs) in 18 bouts, enters the contest eager to seize the biggest opportunity of his professional career. His solitary defeat came on May 17, 2025, in Paris, when he was bested via a 10-round unanimous decision by former Olympic gold medallist Tony Yoka—who is now set to headline IBA PRO 19 against Murat Gassiev.

“I feel very good. As for my opponent, I know him really well: we have mutual friends and acquaintances, so there is nothing personal here,” said Yallyev. “Khalidov is a good puncher and a fighter with character. He is also from Dagestan, and I am from Tamazatyube myself. I think we will put on a good fight. I am glad to have been given the opportunity to compete on a big stage.”

For Khalidov (12-0, 6 KOs), however, the fight represents another step in a journey he believes is leading back to world title contention.

“I do not feel anything extraordinary. I am simply glad that I have a fight and that I have work to do,” said Khalidov. “For me, as an experienced athlete, this is another day at the office. Yallyev is in the Russian boxing top. Until recently, he was ranked above me but I have now overtaken him and moved higher. This fight will simply prove that it was no accident.”

Despite his confidence, Khalidov insisted there will be no complacency.

“At this stage of my career, every rival presents a threat. I have faced opponents who were much more dangerous than Yallyev, but there is absolutely no underestimation. I prepare for every fight as if it were my last. To be a part of the card as big as Gassiev vs Yoka is a great honour for me and a major opportunity to make an even louder statement,” Khalidov added. “I intend to fight for a world title again under one of the major organisations, and I will not let this opportunity pass me by.”

Having spent many years living and training in Moscow, Khalidov is also expecting strong support from the local crowd.

“I have been living in Moscow for many years. Many people here know me, and I know many people here as well. That is why fighting in Moscow feels like fighting at home. If you have the chance to come to the arena and watch our fight, as well as the entire event, make sure you find time to be there. It will be a spectacular night of boxing. I promise one thing: people will be talking about my fight for a long time. I will say it directly — this fight will not go the entire distance.”

IBA PRO 19 takes place on 11 July at VTB Arena in Moscow and it will feature Murat Gassiev’s WBA Heavyweight World Championship defence against Olympic gold medallist Tony Yoka in the main event.

Tickets available via the official ticketing platform