Top Rank have announced two huge heavyweight fights on one night between four undefeated knockout-artists.
Last week, it was announced that America’s top heavyweight prospect, Jared Anderson (14-0, 14 KOs), would face undefeated Kazakh, Zhan Kossobutskiy (19-0, 18 KOs) in the headline bout of a Top Rank card in Anderson’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio.
It has now been confirmed that the undercard will feature a contest between Arslanbek Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) and Raphael Akpejiori (15-0, 14 KOs).
Anderson and Makhmudov will be hot favourite’s in their contests, with both holding respectable world rankings with sanctioning bodies at this stage of their careers and keen to continue on that path. It’s a course that could potentially see them face off against each other next.
However, both underdogs will be full of confidence due to their undefeated records. Speaking ahead of his clash with Makhmudov, Nigeria’s Akpejiori spoke of his opportunity to represent Africa on the big stage.
“I’ve been preparing myself physically and mentally, I can’t wait for the bell to ring to show the world what Raphael Akpejiori is made of!
“I don’t expect this fight to be easy. But I have been preparing for this moment for a long time. I am used to working hard. I’m used to adversity, obstacles, and pain. This is just a new chapter. I am more than ready.
“This is an opportunity to represent the African continent globally. I don’t intend to disappoint,”
Makhmudov, though, is as confident as ever.
“I have dedicated my life to boxing, worked hard and made every sacrifice to get to this crucial moment in my career. I am ready. I’m ready to fight the best, and to give a memorable show to the boxing fans around the world.”
The fights will take place on July 1 in Toledo, Ohio, in an event that can be watched on ESPN for fans in the United States. As of yet, no UK broadcaster has been announced.