Josh Kelly says he is not bothered by Bakhram Murtazaliev’s presence or appearance. That mindset may help him stay relaxed on fight night, but it doesn’t change where this fight becomes dangerous for him.
Kelly talked about intimidation as something that happens before the clock. It has never been where Murtazaliev separates himself. The problems start once movement slows down and the fight stays close.
Josh has been there before. Against David Avanesyan, he boxed and moved early, then tired and was forced to trade. Once that happened, the damage quickly followed.
Murtazaliev presents the same type of problem, only with greater danger. He hits harder and deals more damage once opponents are kept in range. His third-round stoppage of Tim Tszyu last October changed how opponents view him. Tszyu hadn’t been handled like this before, yet Murtazaliev imposed himself early and ended the fight without hesitation.
Kelly’s return to a title shot has been steady. He has won seven straight fights since the Avanesyan loss, rebuilding confidence and timing along the way. What those fights didn’t show is how he handles when a true puncher applies sustained pressure. Neither of those opponents was known for power or for forcing long stretches of close work.
A calm approach can help when a fighter is controlling distance and pace. It becomes a risk when it turns into a willingness to stay close or trade to show comfort. Against Murtazaliev, those moments favor one side.
Kelly doesn’t lose fights because he doesn’t have faith. He runs into trouble when fights drift into areas he can’t manage, and Murtazaliev is built to push opponents there.
Fight details
Josh Kelly vs Bakhram Murtazaliev
IBF junior middleweight title fight
Saturday, January 31
Newcastle, England
Broadcast: DAZN
Main card starts 11:00 a.m. ET
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Last updated on 31/01/2026
