Get ready for a Super Welterweight showdown! On Saturday, January 31st, 2026, Bakhram Murtazaliev and Josh Kelly will battle it out at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle, Tyne and Wear, England, for the IBF World Junior Middleweight Championship. This Murtazaliev vs Kelly fight is more than just a boxing match; it’s a clash of styles, a test of wills, and a chance for both fighters to etch their names in boxing history. This Murtazaliev Kelly fight will be broadcast on DAZN.
Bakhram Murtazaliev, representing Russia, enters the ring with an unblemished record. At 33 years old, and with a height of 6’ 0” and a 72” reach, Bakhram Murtazaliev boasts a powerful Orthodox stance. His record speaks for itself: 23 wins, 0 losses, and a staggering 17 knockouts. He is currently ranked number 4 by The Ring at super welterweight.
Hometown hero Josh Kelly, known as “PBK,” will have the Newcastle crowd behind him. At 31 years old, standing 5’ 10” tall with a 72” reach and also fighting from an Orthodox stance, Josh Kelly brings a record of 17 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, with 9 knockouts. Kelly is currently ranked number 1 by the WBO, and 3 by the IBF in the 154lb division.
| Statistic | Bakhram Murtazaliev | Josh Kelly |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 23-0 (17 KOs) | 17-1-1 (9 KOs) |
| Knockout Percentage | 74% | 53% |
| Height | 6’ 0” | 5’ 10” |
| Reach | 72” | 72” |
The stats suggest Murtazaliev vs Kelly analysis indicate a power advantage for Murtazaliev, but Kelly’s experience could be a deciding factor.
Bakhram Murtazaliev is undefeated and has been on a tear, stopping 4 of his last 5 opponents. His recent wins include a TKO victory over Tim Tszyu and Jack Culcay, demonstrating his championship pedigree.
Josh Kelly has won 5 of his last 5 fights, showcasing his resilience and determination. His recent victory over Flavius Biea and Ishmael Davis highlight his skills and ability to perform under pressure.
Murtazaliev’s path to victory lies in utilizing his power and pressure. He needs to control the center of the ring and land those knockout punches.
Kelly’s strategy should focus on using his boxing skills and movement to avoid Murtazaliev’s power. He needs to outbox and frustrate Murtazaliev.
This Murtazaliev vs Kelly prediction leans towards Murtazaliev. His power and relentless pressure are likely to be the deciding factors.
Prediction: Bakhram Murtazaliev by late-round TKO.
The Murtazaliev vs Kelly odds favor Murtazaliev, but Kelly’s hometown advantage and boxing skills make him a live underdog.
The Murtazaliev vs Kelly undercard promises a night of exciting fights.
The Murtazaliev vs Kelly fight will be broadcast on DAZN.
The Murtazaliev vs Kelly preview points to an explosive fight. Will Bakhram Murtazaliev remain undefeated, or can Josh Kelly pull off the upset in his hometown? Tune in to DAZN on January 31st, 2026, to witness this IBF Super Welterweight Title clash!
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