Ortiz vs. Madrimov: A showdown in Riyadh with a promising future for Ukraine.

On this incredible boxing evening, we are particularly interested in one match. Virgil Ortiz will defend the "interim" champion title in the super welterweight category according to the WBC. The American's opponent will be Uzbek fighter Israel Madirimov.

The winner will face the mandatory challenger – Ukrainian Sergey Bohachuk. However, Bohachuk was let down twice last year regarding fights, so there is no absolute certainty. Nevertheless, we will watch this match closely considering the potential for a Ukrainian opportunity.

Of course, we could also discuss the bout between Daniel Dubois and the experienced New Zealander Joseph Parker in this context, as a victory for the British fighter would almost certainly lead to a new showdown for the title of undisputed heavyweight champion between Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk and a representative from the " misty isle".

However, just a few days before the fight, Dubois fell ill, shattering all plans of Turki Al-Sheikh, who even invited the Ukrainian champion to Saudi Arabia. Instead, Martin Bakole will step in to fight Parker, seizing the chance to shine on a big stage.

Nonetheless, the Parker vs. Bakole fight is less interesting to us, considering it won't affect Usyk's fate, so let’s move on to the match between Virgil Ortiz and Israel Madirimov.

Ortiz – Madirimov: Are we expecting Bohachuk's next opponent?

We place a subheading under a huge question mark. Sergey has had many promises made to him, but for now, he is only in the status of "final eliminator winner." It seems expected that Bohachuk will fight the victor of the Ortiz – Madirimov bout.

The winner of that duel will face Fundora. But what will stop Fundora from choosing another opponent for himself? In March, he is fighting Chordale Booker, and afterward, he will likely pick a "moneyed" opponent.

Regardless, the matchup between Virgil Ortiz and Israel Madirimov is a true highlight of the upcoming boxing evening.

Bookmakers' Expectations

The bookmakers' odds for this confrontation are quite balanced. A victory for the American is rated at 1.80, while the Uzbek boxer stands at 2.02.

Additionally, experts expect a full 12 rounds. Bets on the fight going the distance are accepted at 1.50. A stoppage can be wagered at 2.50.

The most likely outcome – Ortiz winning by points – is rated at 2.87. Madirimov's victory via judges' decision is valued at 3.25. Early stoppage victories for the fighters are rated at 4.33 and 5.00, respectively.

Therefore, the intrigue is at its peak. Let’s recall that Sergey Bohachuk entered the match against Virgil Ortiz as a total underdog. Ultimately, the Ukrainian became the first boxer not to lose to the American by stoppage. Moreover, Ortiz did not even secure a unanimous decision, settling for a majority vote.

Expecting a Spectacular Show

It’s hard to predict how the bout will unfold, especially since even the bookmakers can’t determine a favorite. We’ll simply anticipate a spectacular performance. Let’s not forget that the American is a powerful knockout artist. Yes, this status was slightly tarnished by our Bohachuk, but a record of 21 knockouts in 22 fights remains exceptional for the super welterweight division.

Before 2024, Ortiz took a long break due to health issues. However, in the fight against Sergey, he proved that he is fully ready for a 12-round intense battle against formidable opponents. It was also evident that the trainer and boxer chose the right strategy for the fight against the powerful and technical Ukrainian.

The Uzbek also possesses serious technical and striking potential. He didn’t reach the highest titles in the amateurs, but in the professionals, he quickly approached championship bouts. Most notably, his triumph against Magomed Kurbanov, where Israel claimed the WBA championship belt, and his last fight with Terence Crawford...

Madirimov looked quite respectable, although he was an undeniable underdog according to the pre-fight odds. After the match, many questions remained: was the Uzbek such a skilled opponent, or did the American simply lack physical strength, as he was competing in his fourth weight category? Israel himself did not acknowledge the loss, even though the judges' decision was unanimous and, honestly, quite fair.

Now the Uzbek has a great chance to prove that he was robbed in the fight with Crawford and that he is indeed a master of the highest level. We expect an exciting stylistic bout. In reality, the Ortiz – Madirimov pairing can produce a much more interesting fight than Beterbiev against Bivol.

A Remarkable Boxing Evening: Are the Sheikhs Gaining Momentum?

The next Arabian event can be viewed on the DAZN service for around 26 American dollars. Is this a lot for seven championship fights? That’s a rhetorical question.

Also, Championship will provide a text-based live broadcast for you.

It’s interesting whether the sheikhs will ramp up their efforts and make the next Riyadh Season event even more powerful? Perhaps involving Ukrainian champions and contenders. For now, we will monitor the potential opponents of our boxers and enjoy the vibrant spectacle.