Morrell Edges Past Khataev In A Controversial Split Decision

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Jul 12, 2025 8:31 PM ET

David Morrell overcame Imam Khataev in a controversial split decision, 95-94 Khataev, 96-93 Morrell, 95-94 Morrell, as you can follow what happened.

Morrell was looking to bounce back after suffering his first career loss against David Benavidez Jr. The defeat was a major setback since it was for the interim WBC belt, as Benavidez later became the full champion once Dmitry Bivol vacated. Prior to that, Morrell had an impressive 11-fight win streak, picking up the WBA (Regular) titles at both super middleweight and light heavyweight. Khataev was undefeated with a 10-0 record. 9 of his wins came by knockout. He defeated Durval Elias Palacio in his last fight via a unanimous decision. It was the first time he had failed to stop an opponent, as he faced a fellow knockout artist. Here is how the fight played out.

Updates

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev Round 2: Khataev just ROCKED Morrell! A brutal left hook stunned Morrell, and Khataev went ALL OUT with a barrage of shots, including a HARD right to the chin! Morrell is HURT! What a showing from the Russian beast through two rounds!
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev Round 3: Morrell's trying to get back to his boxing! He's moving more, landing that southpaw jab early. A good combination from Morrell landed clean, and he looked to get the better of a late exchange! Khataev still digging to the body, but…
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev Round 4: Morrell's jab is BACK! He's finding his rhythm, setting up that powerful left cross. Khataev tried to rally with heavy jabs and an uppercut, but Morrell's defense and consistent jab earned him the round! We're tied 38-38 heading into…
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

Imam Khataev drops David Morrell in the 5th round ‼️#MorrellKhataev pic.twitter.com/hXNHoOfMsN
— (@HECCTECC) July 12, 2025

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev Round 7: Khataev's relentless pressure is paying off! Morrell's output dipped as Khataev pushed him back, even splitting his guard with a late combination. Khataev's found a new lease of life
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev Round 8: The upset is brewing! Khataev is making this a REAL fight! Morrell's output is low, and Khataev is outworking him, even splitting his high guard! Khataev takes another close round for his activity! Can he pull off the unthinkable?
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev: THE SCORES ARE IN! 95-94 Khataev, 96-93 Morrell, 95-94 Morrell… And the winner by SPLIT DECISION is DAVID MORRELL! He bounces back from his first pro defeat in an absolute THRILLER! Do you agree with the judges' call?! https://t.co/ohnZC1h2VN
— BoxingNews.com (@BoxingNews) July 12, 2025

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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