Kurbanov is hoping a win Friday night will propel him into world title contention. Photo Credit: RCC Boxing.
As the strength in depth of the 154 pound division continues to expand, Dagestan’s ‘The Black Lion’ Magomed Kurbanov (21-0) is the latest serious contender to join the party at light middleweight.
Nicely ranked at #5 by the IBF and WBO, the Russian also holds a #15 ranking with the IBF and #17 with WBC. A clear intention by promotional outfit RCC Boxing Promotions to get Magomed ‘into position’ for a run at a world title.
This Friday night will see the 25-year-old take on his toughest test to date, facing off against former world champion Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (29-2-1) for the vacant WBO International title in Ekaterinburg live on ESPN +.