In the unpredictable theatre of professional boxing, an unexpected turn of events has propelled British welterweight Josh Kelly into a prime position for a world championship challenge. The question remains: will “Pretty Boy” seize this golden opportunity?
For weeks, whispers have circulated regarding the future of the IBF Super Welterweight division. The reigning champion, Bakhram Murtazaliev, an undefeated force with a formidable 23-0 record (17 KOs), found his path to a second title defense somewhat circuitous. Initial speculation linked him to a bout with Sunderland`s own Josh Kelly, 17-1-1 (9 KOs). However, communication between Kelly`s camp and the champion reportedly ceased, leaving the championship picture muddled.
The IBF, keen to ensure a mandatory defense, then ordered Murtazaliev to face Erickson Lubin, 27-2 (19 KOs), a highly regarded contender. Purse bids were scheduled, indicating the fight was all but set. Yet, boxing, much like life, often throws curveballs. Reports soon emerged that Lubin was considering an alternative high-profile clash against fellow unbeaten puncher Vergil Ortiz, 23-0 (21 KOs). These whispers materialized into fact last night when the planned purse bids for Murtazaliev-Lubin were abruptly cancelled. Lubin, it appears, opted for a different dance partner.
The Unexpected Contender: Kelly Steps Up
With Lubin out of the equation, the International Boxing Federation`s rulebook dictated the next course of action: Murtazaliev was to be ordered to fight the next highest-ranked and available contender. And just like that, the spotlight swiveled back to Josh Kelly. This sudden turn of fortune presents Kelly with a compelling opportunity to vie for his first world title.
For Murtazaliev, however, this pattern of scheduled opponents withdrawing is, regrettably, nothing new. Speaking recently, the champion expressed a weary familiarity with such disappointments, a sentiment that carries a subtle irony for a fighter who consistently prepares for battles that often dissolve before the first bell.
“I thought so [Lubin was a done deal] too, but he ran away as well. It’s been like this my whole career. Now Kelly has the opportunity to fight me, if he really wants it, but so far it has been quiet.”
This statement encapsulates the champion`s pragmatic outlook: he is ready, but past experiences have taught him a cautious skepticism. It`s a testament to the turbulent currents beneath the surface of professional boxing, where intentions can shift faster than a jab.
Kelly`s Dual Ambitions: Title Shot or Domestic Dust-Up?
In a promising development, Kelly has since taken to social media to publicly declare his interest, labelling Murtazaliev as his “next target.” This assertion certainly adds fuel to the fire, suggesting that “Pretty Boy” is indeed keen to capitalize on this unforeseen opening. However, Kelly`s ambitions are not singular. He has also expressed a strong desire for a high-profile domestic clash against Conor Benn, particularly with Benn`s upcoming rematch against Chris Eubank Jr. scheduled for November 15 at London’s iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
This creates an intriguing strategic dilemma for Kelly. Should he commit to the world title challenge against Murtazaliev, the Benn-Eubank Jr. card at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium could serve as an almost perfect stage. Imagine: fighting for a world title as a co-main event, securing a victory against the undefeated champion, and simultaneously laying down a formidable challenge to Conor Benn. It’s a narrative that could captivate both the boxing world and the casual observer, transforming a mandatory defense into a springboard for an even bigger British showdown.
The Ball is in Kelly`s Court
The stage is set, the champion is ready, and the opportunity is undeniable. Josh Kelly now stands at a crossroads, poised for a career-defining moment. The boxing community watches with bated breath to see if this promising prospect will grasp the world title shot presented to him, or if other, equally ambitious, plans will take precedence. For a sport that thrives on drama and unexpected twists, this latest development in the super-welterweight division offers yet another compelling chapter.
Tristan Blackwood