Get ready for a thrilling night of championship boxing as IBA PRO 19 descends upon Moscow's VTB Arena on July 11, 2026. This highly anticipated event promises to deliver an action-packed evening, showcasing the very best of the heavyweight division and beyond.
The Main Event: Gassiev vs. Kadiru
In the main event, we have a mouth-watering clash between two heavyweights with very different stories. On one side, we have Murat "Iron" Gassiev, the reigning WBA heavyweight world champion and a true Russian hero. Gassiev's journey to the top has been nothing short of spectacular, and he now finds himself defending his title on home soil. With a record of 33-2 and an impressive 26 knockouts, he's a force to be reckoned with.
His opponent, Peter Kadiru, steps into the ring with a record of 23-1 and a reputation as one of Germany's most recognizable heavyweights. Kadiru has earned his shot at the title after a unanimous decision victory over Senad Gashi in May. This is a massive opportunity for him to make a statement and potentially upset the champion.
What makes this fight particularly fascinating is the contrast in styles. Gassiev, with his powerful punches and knockout prowess, will be looking to assert his dominance early on. Meanwhile, Kadiru, known for his technical skills and precision, will aim to outmaneuver the champion and showcase his own brand of heavy-hitting.
Co-Main Event: Suslenkov vs. Joyce
But the action doesn't stop there. In the co-main event, we have another heavyweight showdown as Artem Suslenkov takes on Joe Joyce for the WBA Continental title. This fight promises to be an intriguing battle of styles, with Suslenkov's aggressive approach going up against Joyce's more measured and calculated boxing.
Bare Knuckle Bouts
Adding to the excitement, IBA PRO 19 will also feature two bare knuckle bouts, bringing a unique and raw combat sports experience to the VTB Arena. This addition showcases the diversity of the sport and provides an opportunity for fans to witness the raw power and skill of these fighters.
A Night of High Stakes
As we look forward to this event, one thing is certain: the stakes are incredibly high. For Gassiev, it's a chance to solidify his legacy as a Russian champion and further establish himself as one of the most feared punchers in the division. For Kadiru, a victory would be life-changing, potentially propelling him into the upper echelon of the heavyweight ranks.
In my opinion, this event has all the makings of a classic. The main event alone promises to deliver an unforgettable spectacle, and with the added excitement of the co-main event and bare knuckle bouts, IBA PRO 19 is shaping up to be an unmissable night of boxing.
So, mark your calendars, boxing fans! July 11, 2026, is the date to remember. Get ready for an evening of thrilling action, dramatic upsets, and the very best that the heavyweight division has to offer.
