Madrimov vs. Crawford Feature: Israil Madrimov ‘In Focus’

Between the ages of 16 and 24, Madrimov participated in amateur boxing. The unpaid ranks provided him with an excellent schooling in boxing. Representing Uzbekistan, Madrimov won medals at the 2017 Asian Championships as well as at the 2014 and 2018 Asian Games. As we have seen in the past decade or so, elite amateurs from Uzbekistan and its neighboring nations have transitioned well to professional boxing. A solid schooling in the fundamentals of the sport has been taught – something which serves all fighters well when they are adjusting to the paid ranks.

Madrimov reeled off five consecutive stoppage wins as he began his pro campaign looking to fast-track towards a world title. The only blemish on his record, if it even is a blemish, is a 2022 technical draw against Michel Soro. That fight was stopped three rounds in after an accidental head clash caused a cut above Soro’s left eye. Madrimov had already defeated Soro by stoppage in 2021. From there, Madrimov decisioned Raphael Igbokwe in 2023 before winning his first professional title in the aforementioned bout with Kurbanov in March.

Looking At Madrimov’s Style

Madrimov, a bit like Crawford, is a boxer who does everything well. He does things his way. The best word to describe his in-ring work is probably unconventional. As mentioned, he likes to switch to southpaw on occasion. From his past professional bouts, it looks like his favorite punch is his left hook. He carries plenty of power in that shot. He has demonstrated a tendency to leap into his left hook – it’s slightly risky doing this, but when it works, the shot lands with even more force.

Madrimov also employs very fast, busy footwork. He is always moving and looking to create angles. His feet move so fluidly on the canvas that he looks like many other boxers would if you pressed the fast-forward button. He is always looking for the best angle from which to attack. His constant movement can be dazzling – he doesn’t stay in any one stance for long. On the defensive side, his footwork enables him to get out of harm’s way. This is combined with excellent head and body movement. Landing significant shots on “The Dream” isn’t easy.

Well Balanced With A Variety Of Punches 

As soon as he has an opponent unbalanced and on the back foot Madrimov has shown he knows how to finish. Very much like Crawford, he punishes opponents when they are in this position by not smothering his own work – he remains at the correct range and lands crisp, accurate punches to finish the job. Two examples of this are his 2019 stoppages of Norberto Gonzalez and Alejandro Barrera. Once settled in his disruptive rhythm, Madrimov’s arsenal of attacking punches includes right uppercuts when leading with his right hand and left hooks to head and body out of either stance. Just to emphasize, his left hook, either upstairs or downstairs, is his signature punch. It’s a dangerous shot.

Despite his excessive movements, Madrimov always seems to be in a steady position to land most of his punches – the leaping left hooks excepted. Perhaps this can be attributed to his background in judo. Madrimov holds a black belt in martial arts – a discipline where balance and a good base are essential.

Will Madrimov Be Able To Trouble Crawford?

We will need to wait until August 3 to find this out for sure, but based on the evidence we have, it isn’t too wild to suggest that Madrimov may have some success if he can bring the movement and energy we have seen from him in the past. He may be able to grab some early initiative if Crawford starts slowly while figuring out what he is up against. Madrimov is also boxing at his natural weight and, at 29 years old, should be at or near his physical peak. Although he hasn’t faced anyone in Crawford’s class, he shouldn’t have any ring rust, having fought as recently as March.

The timing of this fight may present the best chance anyone has ever had to defeat Crawford. Speaking to Ring Magazine recently, Madrimov acknowledged the importance of the upcoming fight and the task he faces. “This is the first time in history that a Uzbekistani fighter is fighting the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world,” he said. Madrimov continued: “It’s history in the making. This is going to be a record by beating the best pound-for-pound fighter. Crawford is challenging me for my title, and I’m challenging him for the greatness.”

Madrimov sounds confident. His smooth skills, unconventional style, and genuine power give him a slight chance of beating Crawford. If everything goes perfectly on the night, Madrimov’s dream of overcoming one of the biggest challenges in boxing may just come true.