Former champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov returns to action on July 11th against Mexico’s Kevin Martinez. One of Russia’s most accomplished boxers, Gadzhimagomedov was the WBA bridgerweight (224-pound) champion until a fews days ago, when the WBA announced it was abolishing the new weight class. He will now face Mexican heavyweight Kevin Martinez (14-1, 10 KOs) in a ten-round contest at IBA.Pro 19 in Moscow at VTB Arena. An Olympic silver medallist and multiple-time world champion in the amateur ranks, Gadzhimagomedov has established himself as one of the leading names to emerge from the IBA system. Since turning professional, the Russian has remained unbeaten, combining elite amateur pedigree with growing confidence in the professional ranks. 

 

The main event on July 11th is being finalized, as WBA regular heavyweight champion is looking for a substitute to replace the injured Tony Yoka.

 

PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE

 

JULY 1, 2026: The WBA has officially eliminated the bridgerweight (224-pound) division, effective immediately as of June 30, 2026. The decision was communicated directly to the division’s reigning champions and is now being made public through this official statement. The move was approved by WBA president and the organization’s Championship Committee during the most recent World Convention in Orlando, Florida. [Only the WBC now recognizes the bridgerweight division]. The WBA says the decision is part of the WBA’s ongoing efforts to streamline its championship structure and strengthen the competitive landscape across all weight classes. As for the division’s reigning titleholders, champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and interim champion Vartan Arutyunyan, both have been informed that they will be incorporated into the WBA rankings in their respective weight classes. Gadzhimagomedov will be ranked at cruiserweight, while Arutyunyan will move into the heavyweight rankings.