By Igor Lazorin, tass
The Secretary General of the Russian Boxing Federation, Umar Kremlev, announced his intention to make a big financial push to host the finals of the World Super Series of Boxing (WBSS) in Russia on the Day of Russian Boxing on July 22.
On Saturday night, Russia's Murat Gassiev knocked out Yunier Dorticos by knockout in the twelfth round to unify the WBA, IBF world titles and reached the final of the WBSS, where he will meet with Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk. The final battle is due on May 11 in Saudi Arabia.
All four of the major titles will be at stake, with the IBF, WBA, WBO, WBA belts up for grabs.
Usyk unified the WBO and WBC cruiserweight titles January 27 by beating Mairis Briedis on points in Latvia.
"We will put maximum pressure on the organizers of the WBSS to make the final of the tournament in Russia," said the Kremlin.
"We have already started to act and have indicated our intention to break the price being paid for the show by Saudi Arabia. We want this show to be held on our Day for Russian boxing, which will be held on July 22."
Said Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer, Kalle Sauerland:
“I think we saw for a second week in a row the product you get when you put the best against the best. I think we saw an absolute action-packed battle. This fight was a great advert for the sport, the tournament and the cruiserweight division. People will talk about this fight for many years, especially in Russia.”
Usyk was ringside and joined Gassiev in the ring for a face off after the fight.
"I want to say congratulations on your last fight. Great job," Gassiev told him. "I will do my best against you, and I hope we will make a good fight for all boxing fans."
Usyk said: "I want to congratulate Murat on his victory, and I expect a spectacular and beautiful fight in Jeddah.”
2023-10-20 10:32:26
