Two of the dodgiest fighters meet.
Maybe.
If it does happen I'm going for a thoroughly disputed draw, an early and disputed stoppage, or a disc or injury.
Yoka may get ko'd from an invisible punch in round one. Gassiev may do nothing and win a decision.
Either way someone will fail a dope test
Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
Murat Gassiev, realigning focus from Michael Hunter to Tony Yoka, aiming for undisputed
Murat Gassiev, preparing for his July 11 bout with Tony Yoka, is in the midst of a long-term plan to take over the heavyweight division.
It's a plan that involves watching what he eats.
The former cruiserweight titlist, and current WBA ‘regular’ beltholder at heavyweight, doesn’t have a weight limit to worry about these days but the 32-year-old Russian, thanks to his strength and conditioning coach Ronald Basiev, is ensuring that his weight remains close to his fighting best throughout camp.
Gassiev, 32, weighed a little over 230lbs for his title-winning victory over Kubrat Pulev in December. Though he did gain some in the aftermath, he is already down to a similar weight for this camp and the plan, according to head coach Anton Kadushin, is to stay there.
"I believe he has not yet fully adapted to the divsion, but he is on the right path and is highly motivated to establish himself among the elite heavyweights," Kadushin said.
“Murat knows exactly what he can and cannot eat, and he certainly knows how many pies he is allowed! His nutritional discipline is excellent.”
Gassiev, 33-2 (26 KOs), had been expecting to fight Michael Hunter before Yoka, the 2016 Olympic champion who recently missed out on a WBC eliminator when Lawrence Okolie failed a drug test, stepped in to face the Russian at Moscow’s VTB Arena. Though the change in opponent triggered a change in sparring partners, the camp are not necessarily expecting a more difficult fight.
“I would not say Yoka is more dangerous,” Kadushin said. “He is simply different stylistically. In my opinion, Hunter is the more experienced professional, while Yoka brings a tremendous Olympic background and greater physical size.”
Gassiev, who in his final bout as a cruiserweight lost widely to Oleksandr Usyk in 2018, has won seven of eight since moving up. His only loss in the banner division came to Otto Wallin, on a split decision over 12 rounds, in 2023.
Plans are being put in place to ensure that Gassiev, should he go the full championship distance again, remains strong throughout. Camp began with altitude training in Terskol and Kislovodsk before, with stamina levels reset, the focus turned to enhancing Gassiev’s skillset with Yoka’s own toolbox in mind.
“At this stage we are focused on technical and tactical preparation, improving the quality of Murat’s boxing. We are also spending a lot of time working on mentality and fighting mindset,” Kadushin said.
Beating Yoka is the immediate focus. But the long-term goal remains the same.
"To become the undisputed champion."
Murat Gassiev, preparing for his July 11 bout with Tony Yoka, is in the midst of a long-term plan to take over the heavyweight division.
It's a plan that involves watching what he eats.
The former cruiserweight titlist, and current WBA ‘regular’ beltholder at heavyweight, doesn’t have a weight limit to worry about these days but the 32-year-old Russian, thanks to his strength and conditioning coach Ronald Basiev, is ensuring that his weight remains close to his fighting best throughout camp.
Gassiev, 32, weighed a little over 230lbs for his title-winning victory over Kubrat Pulev in December. Though he did gain some in the aftermath, he is already down to a similar weight for this camp and the plan, according to head coach Anton Kadushin, is to stay there.
"I believe he has not yet fully adapted to the divsion, but he is on the right path and is highly motivated to establish himself among the elite heavyweights," Kadushin said.
“Murat knows exactly what he can and cannot eat, and he certainly knows how many pies he is allowed! His nutritional discipline is excellent.”
Gassiev, 33-2 (26 KOs), had been expecting to fight Michael Hunter before Yoka, the 2016 Olympic champion who recently missed out on a WBC eliminator when Lawrence Okolie failed a drug test, stepped in to face the Russian at Moscow’s VTB Arena. Though the change in opponent triggered a change in sparring partners, the camp are not necessarily expecting a more difficult fight.
“I would not say Yoka is more dangerous,” Kadushin said. “He is simply different stylistically. In my opinion, Hunter is the more experienced professional, while Yoka brings a tremendous Olympic background and greater physical size.”
Gassiev, who in his final bout as a cruiserweight lost widely to Oleksandr Usyk in 2018, has won seven of eight since moving up. His only loss in the banner division came to Otto Wallin, on a split decision over 12 rounds, in 2023.
Plans are being put in place to ensure that Gassiev, should he go the full championship distance again, remains strong throughout. Camp began with altitude training in Terskol and Kislovodsk before, with stamina levels reset, the focus turned to enhancing Gassiev’s skillset with Yoka’s own toolbox in mind.
“At this stage we are focused on technical and tactical preparation, improving the quality of Murat’s boxing. We are also spending a lot of time working on mentality and fighting mindset,” Kadushin said.
Beating Yoka is the immediate focus. But the long-term goal remains the same.
"To become the undisputed champion."
Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
"I believe he has not yet fully adapted to the division."
After 6 years, a natural 230 pounder has not adapted to a division where the minimum weight limit is 200 pounds. His weight has not changed, nor has his appearance in those 6 years. What does he expect to change going forwards?
After 6 years, a natural 230 pounder has not adapted to a division where the minimum weight limit is 200 pounds. His weight has not changed, nor has his appearance in those 6 years. What does he expect to change going forwards?
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princeouko
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Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
This is a great fight for Tony Yoka 'stylistically, he should at least be able to nullify Murat Gassiev with his boxing ability while fighting a big man styled super heavyweight fight'.
Note: Kubret Pulev even miles outside of his peak, and basically semi-retired 'in my opinion was still in the fight vs. Gassiev, before Murat Gassiev was able to brutally and abruptly win the fight with his power'.
Although Murat Gassiev's does have solid boxing fundamentals, and power 'I think as a heavyweight those attributes have been overrated. Tony Yoka really should be able to withstand his power, and negate his boxing ability as a genuine Super Heavyweight'.
To conclude: It is actually a great fight for both fighters 'as they both have something to gain from a potential win. And if Tony Yoka wins the WBA world title. Mega fights vs. Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma are there to be made'.
I personally think Tony Yoka would have been a ideal fight for Anthony Joshua's comeback fight 'both from a stylistic perspective, in terms of preparing Joshua for future heavyweight fights. And definitively in terms of its overall marketability, there is a lot a boxing promoter could have done with that fight. Olympic Champion vs. Olympic Champion' etc.
Note: Kubret Pulev even miles outside of his peak, and basically semi-retired 'in my opinion was still in the fight vs. Gassiev, before Murat Gassiev was able to brutally and abruptly win the fight with his power'.
Although Murat Gassiev's does have solid boxing fundamentals, and power 'I think as a heavyweight those attributes have been overrated. Tony Yoka really should be able to withstand his power, and negate his boxing ability as a genuine Super Heavyweight'.
To conclude: It is actually a great fight for both fighters 'as they both have something to gain from a potential win. And if Tony Yoka wins the WBA world title. Mega fights vs. Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma are there to be made'.
I personally think Tony Yoka would have been a ideal fight for Anthony Joshua's comeback fight 'both from a stylistic perspective, in terms of preparing Joshua for future heavyweight fights. And definitively in terms of its overall marketability, there is a lot a boxing promoter could have done with that fight. Olympic Champion vs. Olympic Champion' etc.
Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
Agree entirely. Gassiev's biggest mistake has been moving up to heavyweight. He could've done a hell of s lot better at Cruiserweight if he stayed there.THE ALTERNATIVE wrote: ↑07 Jun 2026, 15:10 This is a great fight for Tony Yoka 'stylistically, he should at least be able to nullify Murat Gassiev with his boxing ability while fighting a big man styled super heavyweight fight'.
Note: Kubret Pulev even miles outside of his peak, and basically semi-retired 'in my opinion was still in the fight vs. Gassiev, before Murat Gassiev was able to brutally and abruptly win the fight with his power'.
Although Murat Gassiev's does have solid boxing fundamentals, and power 'I think as a heavyweight those attributes have been overrated. Tony Yoka really should be able to withstand his power, and negate his boxing ability as a genuine Super Heavyweight'.
To conclude: It is actually a great fight for both fighters 'as they both have something to gain from a potential win. And if Tony Yoka wins the WBA world title. Mega fights vs. Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma are there to be made'.
I personally think Tony Yoka would have been a ideal fight for Anthony Joshua's comeback fight 'both from a stylistic perspective, in terms of preparing Joshua for future heavyweight fights. And definitively in terms of its overall marketability, there is a lot a boxing promoter could have done with that fight. Olympic Champion vs. Olympic Champion' etc.
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
Announced: Former Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce returns against unbeaten Artem Suslenkov on the undercard of Murat Gassiev vs Tony Yoka on July 11th in Moscow.-
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Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
Britain's Joe Joyce to fight unbeaten heavyweight Artem Suslenkov on undercard of Murat Gassiev vs Tony Yoka on July 11
Joe Joyce, 40, will make return to ring against unbeaten Artem Suslenkov on Saturday July 11; Murat Gassiev defends WBA regular heavyweight title against Tony Yoka aiming to retain his mandatory position to Oleksandr Usyk; Yoka returns to action after cancellation of Lawrence Okolie fight
Britain's Joe Joyce will face unbeaten Russian heavyweight Artem Suslenkov on the undercard of Murat Gassiev vs Tony Yoka on Saturday July 11 in Moscow, it has been confirmed.
Joyce, who is now 40 years old, last fought in April 2025 when he lost to Croatian Filip Hrgovic by unanimous decision for the vacant WBO international heavyweight title.
Previous to that, Joyce lost an all-British contest against Derek Chisora at London's 02 arena in July 2024.
A 2016 Olympic Games silver medallist for Team GB, Joyce's professional boxing record since turning pro in 2017 reads 16 wins, four losses - with 15 victories by knockout.
"I've spent the last year preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring," Joyce said.
"Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance."
Suslenkov, 30, has an unblemished professional record of 14 victories - nine by knockout - last fighting in April of this year against Kazakh-German boxer Artur Mann, winning by knockout in the third round.
The Russian holds the WBA continental gold heavyweight title and IBF European heavyweight title and is considered one of the division's most dangerous rising contenders.
"Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience," Suslenkov said.
"This is a serious challenge. I feel both excitement and full focus. Meticulous preparation and the right tactics to neutralise his strengths will be crucial.
"This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about."
On the same July date, Gassiev will defend his WBA heavyweight title against Yoka in Moscow.
WBA regular champion Gassiev goes in search of a 34th professional victory as he looks to preserve his position as the mandatory challenger to Super champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Under WBA rules, the regular champion is treated as the automatic No 1 contender to the super title.
Unbeaten unified heavyweight champion Usyk is currently obliged to defend his WBA belt against Gassiev after completing a mandatory defence of his WBC title against Agit Kabayel.
If Usyk vacates the WBA title, Gassiev could either be elevated to full champion or ordered to fight for the vacant belt.
Joe Joyce, 40, will make return to ring against unbeaten Artem Suslenkov on Saturday July 11; Murat Gassiev defends WBA regular heavyweight title against Tony Yoka aiming to retain his mandatory position to Oleksandr Usyk; Yoka returns to action after cancellation of Lawrence Okolie fight
Britain's Joe Joyce will face unbeaten Russian heavyweight Artem Suslenkov on the undercard of Murat Gassiev vs Tony Yoka on Saturday July 11 in Moscow, it has been confirmed.
Joyce, who is now 40 years old, last fought in April 2025 when he lost to Croatian Filip Hrgovic by unanimous decision for the vacant WBO international heavyweight title.
Previous to that, Joyce lost an all-British contest against Derek Chisora at London's 02 arena in July 2024.
A 2016 Olympic Games silver medallist for Team GB, Joyce's professional boxing record since turning pro in 2017 reads 16 wins, four losses - with 15 victories by knockout.
"I've spent the last year preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring," Joyce said.
"Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance."
Suslenkov, 30, has an unblemished professional record of 14 victories - nine by knockout - last fighting in April of this year against Kazakh-German boxer Artur Mann, winning by knockout in the third round.
The Russian holds the WBA continental gold heavyweight title and IBF European heavyweight title and is considered one of the division's most dangerous rising contenders.
"Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience," Suslenkov said.
"This is a serious challenge. I feel both excitement and full focus. Meticulous preparation and the right tactics to neutralise his strengths will be crucial.
"This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about."
On the same July date, Gassiev will defend his WBA heavyweight title against Yoka in Moscow.
WBA regular champion Gassiev goes in search of a 34th professional victory as he looks to preserve his position as the mandatory challenger to Super champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Under WBA rules, the regular champion is treated as the automatic No 1 contender to the super title.
Unbeaten unified heavyweight champion Usyk is currently obliged to defend his WBA belt against Gassiev after completing a mandatory defence of his WBC title against Agit Kabayel.
If Usyk vacates the WBA title, Gassiev could either be elevated to full champion or ordered to fight for the vacant belt.
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Ruthless-RKO
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Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
Joyce set for return in Moscow against Suslenkov
Britain's Joe Joyce will return to the ring for the first time in more than a year when he challenges undefeated Russian heavyweight Artem Suslenkov for the WBA Continental title in Moscow on 11 July.
Joyce, 40, has been out of action since he lost to Filip Hrgovic by unanimous decision for the vacant WBO international heavyweight title in April 2025.
The 2016 Olympic silver medallist has lost four of his past five fights, with his last victory coming against Kash Ali in March 2024.
After the Hrgovic defeat, Joyce's promoter allegedly said he needed to have a "real serious think about the future".
But despite the setbacks, Joyce - who has a professional record of 16 wins and four losses - says he has spent the past 12 months "preparing, training and wanting to be back in the ring".
"I'm excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Continental heavyweight title on July 11," added Joyce.
"Thank you to IBA Pro for the opportunity. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance."
Suslenkov, 30, comes into the fight with a perfect record from his 14 professional fights, with nine of his victories coming by way of knockout.
The Volgograd-born heavyweight last fought in April when he successfully defended his WBA Continental title against Artur Mann.
The stoppage victory moved Suslenkov into the WBA's top 10 heavyweight rankings for the first time.
"Joyce is a powerful opponent with strong technique and vast experience. This is a serious challenge," said Suslenkov. "I feel both excitement and full focus.
"This is a chance to show my level and give the fans something to cheer about."
The IBA Pro 19 card will be headlined by Murat Gassiev's defence of his WBA heavyweight title against Tony Yoka.
Re: Murat Gassiev vs. Tony Yoka - July 11, 2026
This disappeared from the DAZN schedule...