Uzbekistan's super heavyweight pride, Olympic champion, and undefeated professional boxer Bahodir Jalolov (14–0, 14 KO) is returning to the ring. His next opponent will be the experienced Ukrainian boxer Igor Shevadzutskiy (12–2, 10 KO). This fight will take place on April 5 at a major boxing night in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana.
A year of silence – not a game
Jalolov last stepped into the professional ring in 2022, and during this time, he became known among boxers as the "old man" who everyone knew but never saw in the ring. This silence stretched a bit — even the fight in Montreal was canceled at the last minute due to a facial injury. Unfortunately, this is also part of the sports life.
What did the journalist say?
An article written by Michael Collins in Boxing247.com expressed the thoughts of many fans:
"Olympic heavyweight champion Bahodir Jalolov is returning to the ring. He hasn't fought in professional boxing for over a year. Previously, he was supposed to participate in the main fight of a boxing night organized in Montreal, but he had to cancel the bout at the last minute due to a facial injury. Jalolov has everything. But now he needs to step into the ring against strong opponents."
The truth is that Bahodir's previous opponents were significantly below his level. In every fight, he would knock out his opponent early, hardly breaking a sweat. Now, however, fans are expecting a real struggle and dramatic fights from him.
Shevadzutskiy – a test or another knockout?
Igor Shevadzutskiy is not an easy opponent. He has 12 victories and 10 knockouts. Despite having suffered losses, he is a familiar name. This fight could be a serious test for Jalolov — or he could become another "victim."
What is the boxing world expecting?
World boxing fans want to see Bahodir Jalolov among elite heavyweight boxers like Tyson Fury, Alexander Usyk, Anthony Joshua, and others. But before that, he needs to fight against "big names," test himself, and rise in the world rankings.
Is Bahodir our last hope?
Uzbek boxing has been rising on the world stage in recent years, and Bahodir Jalolov is the flagbearer of this process. His upcoming fights are significant not only for him but also for the sporting prestige of an entire nation.
Remember the date: April 5. Bahodir is back in the ring. And this time, it could be a fight that changes everything.
