Murat Gassiev will make the first defense of his WBA heavyweight title against Tony Yoka on July 11 in Moscow, and a former unified cruiserweight champion against an Olympic gold medalist still trying to revive his professional career.
The fight headlines IBA PRO 19 at the VTB Arena and gives Gassiev (33-2, 26 KOs) his first appearance since knocking out Kubrat Pulev in six rounds to capture the WBA title earlier this year. With this victory, the 32-year-old became the first Russian heavyweight world champion in more than a decade and now returns home for his first title defence.
Yoka (15-3, 12 KOs) enters the fight after rebuilding his career under trainer Don Charles after a rough stretch that included three losses in four fights. The 2016 Olympic gold medalist from France has remained active over the past two years as he tries to work his way back into the heavyweight picture.
“Tony Yoka is an Olympic champion. He is a big, strong, experienced boxer with a solid amateur background,” Gassiev said.
“He’s an Olympic champion, and this will definitely not be an easy fight. That said, I believe I have a greater desire to retain my title and beat him. That’s the most important thing, what you bring into the ring.
“Every time I step into the ring, I come with the desire to win and do everything possible to achieve that victory. I want to thank both my team and the IBA president, Umar Kremlev, for this opportunity. On July 11, the people of Moscow will see the best version of Murat Gassiev, and I promise them fireworks.”
Yoka said the fight represented the biggest opportunity of his professional career and a chance to become the first French heavyweight champion in boxing history.
“I am going to win this world title for all my people in France and Congo who not only stayed with me but still believe that I will become a professional world champion,” said Yoka.
“I’ve been working with Don Charles for over two years now, and I’m ready to show the boxing world the changes in my professional boxing. I want to thank Don and my team for supporting me 100% throughout this period, as well as Frank and George Warren at Queensberry, for giving me this opportunity, which I will make the most of.”
The July 11 card in Moscow is expected to feature several additional title fights and heavyweight contenders, but Gassiev-Yoka gives the event a matchup between two fighters who were once considered future leaders of the division at different stages of their careers.
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Last updated on 2026/05/27 at 16:28
