Gassiev, former cruiserweight champion, takes on Wallin in historic regional title fight in Antalya
Gassiev, former cruiserweight champion, takes on Wallin in historic regional title fight in Antalya
ANTALYA, Türkiye — Russian Murat Gassiev will meet Sweden’s Otro Wallin in a fight for WBA Intercontinental heavyweight belt in the Regnum Carya Hotel, in Antalya, Turkey on this Saturday.
This is the first time that a regional title of the pioneer organization is contested in Turkey, making it a very special occasion for the sport. With over 11 years in his professional boxing career Gassiev (30-1) has had a single loss, and 1 no-contest.
Gassiev was previously a cruiserweight champion and only lost at that weight against Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk, who was champion in the category and is now heavyweight champion in three organizations (WBA, IBF and WBO).
“I prepared myself for a tough fight but it is boxing and anything can happen,” said Gassiev in media statements after the fight.
Wallin, a 32-year old Swedish professional boxer started his career in 2013. He is yet to win a major world title and is famous for fighting Tyson Fury four years ago in a 12-round, non-title fight.
Wallin is a strong opponent with a good record and his only defeat was against Tyson Fury, the current WBC heavyweight champion. The European is facing a great opportunity, from which he wants to take advantage of for a victory that will help him move up in the world arena.
“I think he’s a good fighter, but we’re gonna see. He’s fighting a real heavyweight now, somebody that’s gonna come to win, so I think things are gonna be a lot different,” said Wallin in media reports.
Edited by Judy J. Rotich and Newsdesk Manager
