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Josh Kelly Battles Russian Champ for IBF Title January 31

1/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Josh Kelly, the Sunderland-based boxer, aims to win the IBF junior middleweight title from Bakhram Murtazaliev on January 31 in Newcastle.
Kelly faces Bakhram Murtazaliev, the Russian champion with 17 knockouts in 23 wins.
Kelly remains unfazed by Murtazaliev's power and expects local support.
The fight will be broadcast on DAZN, requiring a subscription.
Coverage starts at 7 p.m. GMT, with ring-walks around 9:29 p.m., though this may change.

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Story summary

Josh Kelly, the Sunderland-based boxer, aims to win the IBF junior middleweight title from Bakhram Murtazaliev on January 31 in Newcastle.
Kelly faces Bakhram Murtazaliev, the Russian champion with 17 knockouts in 23 wins.
Kelly remains unfazed by Murtazaliev's power and expects local support.
The fight will be broadcast on DAZN, requiring a subscription.
Coverage starts at 7 p.m. GMT, with ring-walks around 9:29 p.m., though this may change.