Murat Gassiev Defends WBA Heavyweight Title in Moscow

On July 11, 2026, Murat Gassiev retained the WBA heavyweight world title in Moscow’s VTB Arena, stopping German challenger Peter Kadiru by technical knockout in the sixth round. Kadiru, a 29‑year‑old from Hamburg, had been drafted in on short notice after France’s Tony Yoka withdrew with a back injury; his trainer Christian Morales threw in the towel to protect him from further harm.

The bout, part of the IBA PRO 19 event, became Gassiev’s first defense after the title was upgraded from a secondary belt when unified champion Oleksandr Usyk vacated his crowns. Following the victory, IBA President Umar Kremlev praised Gassiev and said the organization will pursue “legacy‑defining” unification fights. Gassiev himself said his priority is to unify the heavyweight belts, adding, “If we can’t unify the belts in the near future, why not?” when asked about a possible fight with veteran Derek Chisora.

The fight’s location drew controversy because of Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and associated sanctions, but the athletes and promoters proceeded with the event.