For Ali Izmailov, Tuesday’s co-main event fight is the start of his run as the light heavyweight champion.
Izmailov takes on Britton Norwood under the Big Time Boxing USA banner live on DAZN. The event takes place from the Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit.
In the main event, Ardreal Holmes Jr. defends his USBA title against Marlon Harrington.
Unbeaten as a pro, Izmailov currently holds the USBA light heavyweight title with a record of 11-0. That includes seven knockout victories, including a recent decision over Charles Foster on Showtime.
“I have shown that I want to fight the best as soon as possible and earn my world title shot,” Izmailov said. “My goal is to beat the best fighters in the division, no matter who it is. I’ll be ready for anyone.”
Three of his last four opponents came into the match unbeaten only to suffer a defeat.
Norwood sports a record of 13-4-1 with 10 carer knockouts since turning pro in 2016. He has won his last three all via finish.
“On my end, I always prepare diligently, so the better Norwood is, the better show the fans will get,” Izmailov said. “If I get the opportunity for the knockout, I’ll definitely take it. But I’ve prepared hard for whatever happens in the fight.
“In the end, I want everyone to say that I’m the next exciting light heavyweight fighter.”
With a win, Izmailov will turn his attention to a potential showdown between champions Dmitriy Bivol and Artur Beterbiev that is expected for the first half of 2024.
“That’s a great fight and I’m very excited about it,” Izmailov said. “It’s too hard for me to pick a winner right now, but I’m all about the best fighting the best.
“This will be my first time fighting on DAZN on Tuesday and I can’t wait to show the boxing world what I’m all about and that I deserve to be next in line fighting for the belts.”
