Umar Salamov vs Yedil Kozhamberdiyev Result, Score & Stats

💣 Umar Salamov is set for his first defense of the IBF European cruiserweight title. The Russian has an impressive record, winning 33 out of 35 professional bouts, with 24 of those victories coming inside the distance. He claimed the belt in August by outpointing Ali Baloev via unanimous decision, and prior to that, he stopped Yuri Kashinsky in the second round. Kozhamberdiyev also boasts an eye-catching resume: 17 wins, all by knockout. Last December, the Kazakh fighter finished Fatih Keles in just four rounds.

Despite Kozhamberdiyev’s flawless knockout ratio, Salamov holds a clear edge in class and experience at championship level. The Russian stands seven centimeters taller than his opponent, allowing him to control range with his jab and steadily ramp up the pressure. Notably, four of Salamov’s five wins before facing Baloev ended early as well. While Kozhamberdiyev is a threat in heavy exchanges, he’ll find it much tougher to consistently close the distance against a boxer as seasoned and technically sound as Salamov. If Salamov uses his reach advantage and avoids getting drawn into a brawl, he has every chance to gradually wear down Kozhamberdiyev and force a stoppage before the championship rounds. That’s the scenario we’re backing. Our pick: under 8.5 rounds.