IBA PRO 19 Moscow: A heavyweight showdown on July 11th, 2026
The boxing world is abuzz with the announcement of IBA PRO 19, a highly anticipated event set to take place at the iconic VTB Arena in Moscow on Saturday, July 11, 2026. This event promises to be a blockbuster, featuring a main event that will have fans on the edge of their seats. Personally, I think this fight card is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the year, with a main event that could be a turning point in the careers of both fighters.
A heavyweight title defense
The main event will see WBA heavyweight world champion Murat "Iron" Gassiev (RUS) defend his title against German heavyweight Peter Kadiru (GER). Gassiev, a formidable force in the ring with a professional record of 33-2 and 26 knockouts, is a rising star in the heavyweight division. His victory over Kubrat Pulev at IBA PRO 13 in December 2025 not only earned him the WBA belt but also solidified his place among the most dangerous punchers in the division. This defense on home soil is a chance for Gassiev to prove himself against a worthy challenger.
Kadiru, with a record of 23-1 and 13 knockouts, is no pushover. The Hamburg native has established himself as one of the most recognizable names in German boxing, and his unanimous decision victory over Senad Gashi in May 2026 has only added to his reputation. This fight represents a major opportunity for Kadiru to make a name for himself on the world stage and potentially transform his career with a stunning upset.
What makes this fight particularly fascinating is the contrast in styles and backgrounds between the two fighters. Gassiev, a traditional boxer with a strong amateur background, brings a powerful punching ability and a relentless pressure to the ring. Kadiru, on the other hand, is a more technical fighter with a strong jab and a preference for a more measured approach. This clash of styles promises to be a tactical battle, with both fighters looking to exploit each other's weaknesses.
A co-main event that packs a punch
In the co-main event, Artem Suslenkov (RUS) will face Joe Joyce (GBR) in a 12-round heavyweight bout for the WBA Continental title. Suslenkov, a rising star in Russian boxing, will be looking to make a statement against the experienced Joyce, who is no stranger to the big stage. This fight could be a stepping stone for Suslenkov, but it also represents a chance for Joyce to reclaim the title he once held.
The WBA Continental title is a significant prize, and this fight will be a tough test for both fighters. Suslenkov, with his aggressive style and powerful punching, will be looking to impose himself on Joyce, who is known for his technical prowess and ability to adapt to different styles. This fight promises to be a strategic battle, with both fighters looking to outwit and outbox each other.
Adding spice with bare-knuckle action
The card will also feature two IBA Bare Knuckle bouts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening's proceedings. Bare-knuckle boxing is a brutal and exciting combat sports format that has gained popularity in recent years, and these fights will provide a different kind of entertainment for fans. The bare-knuckle bouts will showcase the raw power and skill of the fighters, with no gloves to protect their hands.
A heavyweight showdown that could shake up the division
IBA PRO 19 promises to be a heavyweight showdown that could have a significant impact on the division. The main event between Gassiev and Kadiru has the potential to be a turning point in both fighters' careers, with the winner moving closer to the top of the heavyweight heap. The co-main event between Suslenkov and Joyce will also be a tough test for both fighters, with the winner moving closer to a world title shot. This event is a must-watch for boxing fans, with a fight card that features some of the most exciting and talented fighters in the heavyweight division.
In my opinion, IBA PRO 19 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the world of boxing. With a main event that could be a turning point in the careers of both fighters, a co-main event that promises to be a tough test, and the addition of bare-knuckle action, this event is sure to be a memorable one. If you're a boxing fan, you won't want to miss this one. So mark your calendars for July 11, 2026, and get ready for a heavyweight showdown that could shake up the division.
