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Israil Madrimov Eyes December Return, Targets Elite Opposition

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Sep 5, 2025 10:49 PM ET

Israil Madrimov isn’t looking for a soft landing. The former WBA 154-pound titleholder is recovering from a difficult stretch both inside and outside the ring, but he insists his return later this year will be against the toughest opposition available.

Madrimov (10-2-1, 7 KOs), once seen as one of boxing’s brightest super welterweight hopes, has endured a brutal twelve months. In addition to consecutive losses to pound-for-pound star Terence Crawford and knockout artist Vergil Ortiz Jr., the 30-year-old from Uzbekistan underwent surgeries on his left knee and left shoulder. A lingering viral infection has slowed his recovery even further.

Still, Madrimov remains ranked No. 4 in the division by The Ring, and he’s circled December as the target date for his comeback. “I never pick and choose easy fights. I want the toughest challenges every time,” Madrimov said.

On this day in 2024, Terence Crawford defeated Israil Madrimov to claim the WBA super-welterweight title to become a four-division world champion pic.twitter.com/zcIj2U5SII

— Ring Magazine (@ringmagazine) August 4, 2025

Chasing Big Names at 154 and 160

Despite recent setbacks, Madrimov is aiming directly at the top of the sport. He has publicly called out IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev and WBO/IBF middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly.

“If I had the opportunity, I would absolutely love to fight Bakhram Murtazaliev and give a great fight to boxing fans,” Madrimov told The Ring. “With Janibek, I have nothing but respect for him, and it’s not personal. It’s only about the sport. It would be an honor. Kazakhstan is the neighboring country of Uzbekistan, and it would be a great fight between two of the best boxing nations.”

Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) recently saw Erickson Lubin decline a title shot in favor of a clash with Ortiz, leaving the IBF champion without a dance partner until the sanctioning body ordered a fight against Josh Kelly. Alimkhanuly (17-0, 12 KOs) has been dominant at middleweight but continues to face criticism for a lack of marquee opponents.

Madrimov also singled out WBC/WBA champion Sebastian Fundora as the most dangerous fighter at 154 pounds. “He has something that no one else has—size and reach with an awkward style,” Madrimov said. A future clash with the 6’6” Fundora would provide another unique challenge, though Fundora is currently committed to mandatory obligations.

A Dangerous Return

Rather than opting for a tune-up, Madrimov wants to walk directly back into the fire. That mentality makes him a high-risk opponent for champions seeking legitimacy and fresh blood.

For fans, Madrimov’s December return represents more than just a comeback. It’s the story of a fighter refusing to take shortcuts willing to face anyone, at 154 or 160, in pursuit of redemption.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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