The IBA World Championships produced another gripping day of elite boxing in Dubai, with rising talents, Olympic-level fighters and seasoned champions delivering statement performances across a packed Ring A schedule.

Tajikistan’s flyweight prospect Meroj Sufijonov opened the action with a controlled 5–0 unanimous decision over Nepal’s Funglang Kambang, underlining his growing pedigree on the world stage.

“I stayed calm and followed my plan. I know my timing and movement are my strengths, and I showed that today. This championship means everything to me,” said Sufijonov.

Kyrgyzstan veteran Mirlan Turkbay Uulu marked an emotional return to elite competition with a confident unanimous decision over India’s Ashu Ashu.

“I came back because I still feel the fire. I wanted to prove to myself and my country that I can still compete at the highest level,” said Turkbay Uulu.

Spanish bantamweight and Olympic quarterfinalist Rafael Lozano lived up to his top-seed billing, dropping Kenya’s Shaffi Hassan Bakari early and cruising to a 5–0 victory.

“The fight went very well. I’m very happy with this win,” said Lozano.
“Returning to IBA has been great. The prize money matters for boxers, and it gives us real motivation. I’m hungry to keep going and win gold.”

Georgia’s European champion Artyush Gomtsyan controlled his bout against Yohenrry Rosario to win by unanimous decision.

“I stayed patient and used my jab. This is a world championship, and every fight has to be smart, not rushed,” Gomtsyan said.

One of the most dramatic contests of the day came at middleweight, where Saidjamshid Jafarov edged Michael Likalu through a bout review.

“He was very strong and dangerous, but I believed in my heart and my experience. This is why I changed teams and worked so hard,” said Jafarov.

Turkey’s Samet Gumus impressed in his flyweight opener, securing a wide unanimous decision.

“We’re at an amazing IBA event and I’m very thankful for this opportunity,” said Gumus. “Everyone here wants to be champion and I’m no different. God willing, I’ll go all the way.”

In a regional battle, Uzbekistan’s Fazliddin Erkinboev overcame Kyrgyzstan’s Syrgak Abdyzhapar with a composed display.

“I respected my opponent, but I trusted my technique and my conditioning. This is a big stage for me,” Erkinboev said.

The evening session delivered a high-level lightweight clash as Serik Temirzhanov of Kazakhstan defeated two-time Olympian Tsendbaatar Erdenebat.

“I knew I had to be perfect against a boxer like him. I stayed disciplined, listened to my corner, and executed the plan,” said Temirzhanov.

Russia’s Ismail Mutsolgov closed the session with a dominant win.

“Every fight here is a step closer to my dream. I’m focused, ready, and I’m here for the world title,” Mutsolgov said.

The IBA World Championships continue to build momentum as the world’s best boxers chase global glory in Dubai.