Astana will stage a major International Boxing Day fight night on 28 August, bringing together traditional boxing and IBA Bare Knuckle contests on a single joint card organised by the IBA and NOMAD.

Speaking at the official pre-fight press conference in Astana, IBA President Umar Kremlev praised Kazakhstan as one of the world’s powerhouse boxing nations, highlighting the country’s rich sporting heritage, first-class infrastructure, and dedicated fan base.

“I am delighted that we are celebrating International Boxing Day here in Kazakhstan,” Kremlev said. “Kazakhstan is a true boxing nation. Some of the greatest fighters in the world were forged here and have written their names into the history of our sport.

“Astana and Almaty offer world-class conditions. Global champions can come here to display their skill, and Kazakh boxers have the perfect platform to show why they are among the best in the world.”

Kremlev also emphasised the hybrid format of the tournament, which features both traditional boxing and bare-knuckle bouts.

“This International Boxing Day celebration is particularly special because we are featuring a second discipline — IBA Bare Knuckle, together with IBA NOMAD,” he added. “We fully support bare-knuckle boxing because it is an integral part of boxing heritage. Long before the introduction of gloves, boxing began with bare-knuckle contests.”

Star-Studded card and local favourites

The event brings together competitors from Kazakhstan, Russia, Mexico, Venezuela, Namibia, and the Philippines, featuring several elite names from the host nation.

One of the most anticipated bouts sees two-time world champion and Olympic medallist Saken Bibossinov (KAZ) take on Namibian national champion Joseph Aims in a high-stakes flyweight contest.

Headlining the evening, two-time amateur world champion Sanzhar Tashkenbay (KAZ) makes his long-awaited professional debut in a 10-round clash against experienced Filipino campaigner Neil Hacamos.

In another standout bout, undefeated middleweight contender Vadim Tukov (RUS) faces Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares.

Tukov spoke about the privilege and pressure of competing in the Kazakh capital:

“I boxed here many years ago, and the public has always had an immense passion for the sport,” Tukov said. “I face a very strong opponent, and being the only fighter representing Russia on this card brings a special responsibility — but I welcome that challenge. My opponent brings an exciting style, and tomorrow we will deliver a true show for the fans.”

IBA Bare Knuckle Showdowns

IBA Bare Knuckle action forms a key element of the evening’s programme, highlighted by a heated rivalry between Imran Agaev and Ruslan Madeev.

“We have left all the talk behind for 28 August,” Agaev said. “Everything will be settled inside the ring. My mindset remains simple: I hope my opponent brings his absolute best so we can give the crowd an unforgettable, high-action fight.”

The press conference also revealed that the next joint IBA NOMAD event will take place on 11 October in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The International Boxing Day card in Astana gets underway at 18:00 local time on Friday, 28 August, streamed live globally via the official Nomad Fighting YouTube channel.