Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (December 11, 2023) - Top heavyweight boxing's return to Saudi Arabia on December 23 promises a night filled with earth-shaking showdowns. The spotlight rests on two marquee events: the clash between former champions Deontay Wilder and Joseph Parker, and the headline bout featuring Anthony Joshua versus the towering Swede Otto Wallin. However, lurking beneath these high-profile matches lies a compelling undercard fight between rising star Arslanbek Makhmudov and undefeated contender Agit Kabayel.

Kabayel and Makhmudov's Pivotal Moment

Makhmudov, fresh off his 70-second dismantling of Junior Anthony Wright last October, returns to Riyadh for what could be his most challenging bout yet. The undefeated powerhouse, with an impressive record of 18 wins, 17 by knockout, faces Kabayel in a pivotal moment in his career. The betting odds currently favour Makhmudov.

"I am thrilled to fight a significant opponent like Agit Kabayel in Riyadh. This is our chance to showcase all the hard work Arslanbek Makhmudov has put in at the gym. He's here to prove he's the 'Lion' of the jungle," expressed Camille Estephan, reflecting the team's enthusiasm for this match.

Makmudov's Rise to Fame

Since arriving in Montreal, Makhmudov's dominance has made him one of heavyweight boxing's most feared competitors. His rise through the ranks has been relentless, marked by claiming titles and delivering emphatic victories.

In 2019, he became the Continental Americas champion, being the first to halt Jonathan Rice. That same year, he added the NABF and NABA titles to his collection.

By 2022, his conquests included defeating top heavyweight gatekeeper Carlos Takam, consolidating his spot among the division's contenders. Currently ranked 11 by Top Heavyweight Boxing, Makhmudov's aim is the world title. His recent victories over Raphael Akpejiori and Junior Anthony Wright in Riyadh captured the hearts of Saudis, igniting interest in his return for this upcoming card.

"Saudi Arabia was an incredible experience, and I'm grateful for this opportunity. Kabayel is a formidable opponent, offering a real test. I'm excited," Makhmudov shared his anticipation for the bout.

The Kabayel Challenge

For Makhmudov, Kabayel represents a significant challenge. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 240 pounds, the German-Turkish fighter has been undefeated in his 12-year professional career. He boasts wins against notable names like Derek Chisora, Andrii Rudenko, and Agron Smakici, positioning himself at the cusp of the division's elite and ranking in the top tiers of major federations.

"Arslanbek faces his toughest test yet on December 23. Kabayel is a well-rounded fighter, a heavy hitter with both hands. His victory over Derek Chisora is proof of his caliber. Our goal is clear: to show that we operate in a league of our own," remarked Marc Ramsay, Makhmudov's trainer and EOTTM's director of development, setting the stage for a explosive showdown in Saudi Arabia.

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