Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua may be dominating the heavyweight division, but there's another towering figure waiting in the wings. Meet Bakhodir Jalolov, a little-known Uzbek boxer with a frightening skillset.
A Hidden Gem
Jalolov may not be a household name just yet, but don't let that fool you. Standing at an imposing 6ft 7in, he possesses the same height as Fury and the power of Deontay Wilder. Not only that, but his southpaw stance is reminiscent of Oleksandr Usyk, making him a truly unique talent.
A Bureaucratic Hurdle
Unfortunately, boxing's bureaucracy has prevented Jalolov from making a name for himself in the professional circuit. While he continues to dominate amateur tournaments, including the 2021 Olympics, he is still waiting for his chance to shine as a pro.
A Knockout Machine
Despite being limited to amateur fights, Jalolov has shown his prowess by chinning his overmatched opponents. His highlight reel on YouTube is filled with devastating knockouts, leaving no doubt about his talent.
A Terrifying Reputation
Jalolov's dominance has not gone unnoticed. Many solid amateurs have withdrawn from super-heavy tournaments upon seeing him in the opposite corner. His demolition of Richard Torrez Jr in 2019 even garnered the attention of the WBC, who labeled it "brutal and criminal."
A Professional Journey
While Jalolov continues to wait for his shot at the professional ranks, he has quietly amassed an impressive record of 13 wins. He patiently bides his time, knowing that the heavyweight belts will eventually be up for grabs.
A Path to Glory
With Usyk and Fury holding three of the four major titles, Jalolov sees an opportunity to make his mark. As the belts are likely to fragment in the near future, he aims to be one of the mandatory challengers vying for a shot at the crown.
A Gifted Athlete
Jalolov's success should come as no surprise, considering his background as a talented wrestler and footballer during his childhood. His skill and athleticism have translated seamlessly into the boxing ring.
A Heavyweight Champion in the Making
Legendary promoter Bob Arum is among those who believe in Jalolov's potential. He sees the Uzbek boxer as one of the finest heavyweight talents today, both in terms of his amateur accomplishments and his devastating professional performances.
A Unique Style
Jalolov defies the stereotype of a typical southpaw. While known for their technical skills, he adds power to the mix. He prides himself on his ability to land punches without getting hit, emphasizing the importance of defense in his style.
While Jalolov may not be a household name just yet, he is a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. Keep an eye out for this rising star as he continues his journey towards a world title shot.
