As top amateur boxers from around the globe inched closer to gold at the IBA Men’s World Championship in a packed Dubai Tennis Stadium, a different kind of excitement surged through the air.
Renowned figures from global combat sports descended on Dubai, bringing extra star power to a week marked by intense battles and standout performances.
After fiercely contested bouts since the championship’s start on December 2, only a select group of amateurs remain, vying for Saturday’s finals. But before the amateur event reaches its peak, attention shifts to Friday evening’s professional lineup, featuring a historic moment for UAE boxing: the nation’s inaugural heavyweight world title fight.
The spotlight is on a major clash as Bulgaria’s WBA world champion Kubrat “The Cobra” Pulev (32-3-0) defends his title against Russia’s formidable challenger Murat “Iron” Gassiev (32-2-0). Their intense face-off hinted at the fiery battle ahead, promising an explosive heavyweight showdown.
Pulev, a proud ambassador of Bulgarian boxing and veteran of over 300 amateur fights, expressed determination before his title defense. “To be a world champion was my dream and my father’s dream,” he said. “That’s why we started boxing. I’m thrilled to have this world title in Bulgaria, and I’m going to win this fight.”
Gassiev, the powerful former unified cruiserweight world champion, steps up in weight aiming for Russia’s first heavyweight crown in 13 years.
“In the heavyweight division, one punch can change everything,” Gassiev cautioned. “Kubrat has great experience. I know this is one of the toughest fights of my career… we’re ready for anything.”
Yet, the intrigue extends beyond the heavyweight title. The card features rising stars, with none more notable than Nico Ali Walsh (11-2-1), grandson of the legendary Muhammad Ali. Walsh faces Dubai-based Ugandan Jeremiah Sserwadda (12-4-1) in a bout laden with symbolism and expectations.
Nico Ali Walsh
With 12 wins and two losses, Walsh enters the ring following a recent majority decision draw against Thai standout Kittisak Klinson. The 24-year-old middleweight continues to grow under the spotlight of one of sports’ greatest legacies, wearing the iconic white shorts once donned by Muhammad Ali, a tribute to history and his own path.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Walsh reflected on his legacy’s weight: “For me, he’s just my grandfather. To everyone else, he’s the greatest boxer ever. But I see him as family. Every time I enter the ring, I’m trying to better myself. I’m building my legacy while honoring his, and I want to make him proud.”
The presence of combat legends like Manny Pacquiao, Deontay Wilder, Terence Crawford, and MMA stars Rampage Jackson and Henry Cejudo enhances the event. With idols like Crawford, a seven-time world champion in three weight classes, ringside, Walsh has a global platform to make his mark.
Another intriguing storyline involves Dubai-based Indian southpaw Faizan Anwar (20-0-0), who defends his unbeaten record against Russia’s Khyseyn Baysangurov (25-1-0) in a high-stakes welterweight clash. Anwar, a promising talent in the region, has been gaining momentum in the Gulf fight scene through his home gym, Ahmed Seddiqi’s Round 10 Boxing Club, with Friday marking his most significant challenge yet.
With the amateur world championship nearing its climax and a professional card packed with narratives, Friday night at Dubai Tennis Stadium promises to be a pivotal chapter in the UAE’s growing combat sports legacy.
IBA President Umar Kremlev captured the essence when he told Khaleej Times: “Dubai and the Emirates are exceptional places. They provide everything needed to host major global events. Our aim is to make these tournaments accessible to all boxing fans, athletes, and coaches.
“We strive to create the best conditions for our boxers and trainers, and we have the full support of the UAE authorities.”
