Murat Gassiev to defend WBA heavyweight title against Peter Kadiru Saturday
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 6, 2026, 6:19 PM
Last updated Jul 6, 2026
Murat Gassiev will defend his WBA heavyweight title against Peter Kadiru on Saturday in Moscow. Gassiev was initially scheduled to face Tony Yoka, who withdrew due to a back injury. This will mark Gassiev's first title defense after being elevated to full champion status. He holds a record of 33 wins and 2 losses, while Kadiru, boasting 23 wins and 1 loss, steps up to this level after a series of victories following his only defeat in late 2022.
- •Gassiev elevated to full WBA heavyweight champion after Usyk's relinquishment
- •Kadiru steps up from lesser competition for this title shot
- •Gassiev won WBA Regular title with a knockout of Kubrat Pulev in December
- •Kadiru last fought in May, winning by decision over Senad Gashi
- 6:19 PMYahoo Sports — Murat Gassiev to defend WBA heavyweight title against Peter Kadiru after Tony Yoka withdraws
"Gassiev was set to put his championship on the line against Tony Yoka until the Frenchman withdrew last week due to a back injury.
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