Fans should be glad to see the heavy handed Russian back. His third-round destruction of Tim Tszyu in October 2024 established him as one of the most dangerous punchers at 154 pounds. Kelly then showed how that power can be neutralized.
Tszyu stayed within punching range and engaged Murtazaliev in midrange exchanges. Kelly remained mobile, refused to plant his feet for long and forced the champion to chase him. Murtazaliev struggled to cut off the ring or trap Kelly against the ropes, giving future opponents a clear tactical plan.
The champion also learned an unforgiving lesson about defending in the challenger’s home region. He left the decision to three judges in Newcastle, England, and a strange 10-10 score in the final round helped Kelly escape with the belt. Murtazaliev’s attempt to obtain an immediate IBF rematch went nowhere.
At 33, Murtazaliev cannot afford an extended series of soft opponents. His inactivity has removed him from the conversation while Kelly, Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr. pursue the division’s largest fights.
Murtazaliev is now trapped in an awkward position. He has no championship, carries serious knockout power and lacks the commercial following that would persuade leading contenders to face him voluntarily. That makes him a high-risk fight with little financial reward.
Returning in Russia gets him active, but it will not restore his position in the American or British markets. Murtazaliev likely must force another title opportunity through the rankings, possibly by winning an IBF eliminator.
He will eventually need another road fight. Before taking it, Murtazaliev must learn how to catch mobile boxers and ensure that his next championship is not carried into hostile territory without a plan to remove the judges.
