Three fighters shared their reactions following the International Boxing Day fight night in Astana, reflecting on demanding contests, the atmosphere around the event and their ambitions for what comes next.

The card brought together traditional boxing and contests in MMA gloves, with athletes from across several countries competing in front of the Kazakh crowd.

Erkebulan Toktar: “I thought he wouldn’t get up”

Erkebulan Toktar (KAZ) produced one of the most dramatic victories of the evening against Bobirjon Isroilov (UZB), with both men hitting the canvas before Toktar secured a second-round stoppage.

“I thought he wouldn’t get up after the first knockdown, but he is a really strong guy,” Toktar said.

“He kept getting up again and again. The fight only finished because he had been knocked down three times. If the technical knockdown rule had not come into effect, I think he would have got up again.”

Immanuel Joseph: “I am here to represent Namibia and all of Africa”

Immanuel Joseph (NAM) faced Saken Bibossinov (KAZ) in Astana and afterwards thanked those who supported him throughout his preparations and trip to Kazakhstan.

“I would like to thank everyone and thank God for making it possible for me to be here,” Joseph said.

“I have a simple message to Namibians: I am here to represent them and all of Africa. I love them for the support they gave me during my preparations.

“Even while I am here, they keep checking on me to make sure I am well and safe. I want to tell them to always expect the best from me.”

Ruslan Madiyev targets IBA NOMAD title

Ruslan Madiyev (KAZ) successfully adapted to fighting in MMA gloves, defeating Imran Agaev (KAZ) by unanimous decision.

“The boxers put on a good show for the fans and I think everyone enjoyed it,” Madiyev said.

“This was my first experience fighting in MMA gloves. They are very different from boxing gloves — every punch can cause a cut. But we will keep training and I hope we can continue to make the fans happy with more victories.

“In the future, I want to face the champion in my weight division and fight for the IBA NOMAD title.”