WBC No. 4 super featherweight Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov from Isfara, Tajikistan, has made significant moves in his boxing career. He has signed a managerial deal with Australia-based Jim Kambosos and a long-term promotional contract with Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. This is set to open up new opportunities for him on the global stage.
"Tajikistan's Boxing Star on the Path to Championship Glory"
Relocating for Training and Activity
Kambosos and Lewkowicz have a clear plan for Yaqubov. They aim to relocate him to the United States for intensive training and regular activity. This move is crucial as they strive to secure a world title rematch against WBC champion O’Shaquie Foster. Yaqubov, with his talent and determination, is ready to take on this challenge and make his mark in the American boxing scene.Training with top fighters in the States will expose Yaqubov to different styles and techniques. It will help him refine his skills and prepare him for the toughest opponents. This relocation is not just about physical training but also about immersing himself in the boxing culture of the United States.Returning to the Ring
Yaqubov is all set to make his long-awaited return from a year-long layoff. On Thursday, Dec. 12, he will face fellow Tajikistani fighter Zafar Parpiev in an eight-round contest. This bout is part of a card promoted by Shamir Petrossian of Shamo Boxing. Yaqubov is eager to get back in the ring and showcase his skills after a period of rest.His last fight was a memorable one as he trained with Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Gym in Los Angeles. This experience has given him valuable insights and has further fueled his desire to become a world champion. The return fight against Parpiev is just the beginning of his journey back to the top.Accomplishments and Setbacks
In his nearly nine-year career, Yaqubov has already achieved a lot. He has claimed multiple titles including the WBC International super-featherweight belt, WBO Youth lightweight title, and WBA Continental super-featherweight crown. These titles are a testament to his skill and determination.However, he also faced a setback in March 2022 when he dropped a close unanimous decision to Foster in a WBC title eliminator. But Yaqubov did not let this defeat discourage him. He bounced back with three wins, including a decisive victory over Pablo Vicente in a WBC mandatory elimination bout last November.Despite earning a rematch with Foster, promotional issues sidelined him, causing him to miss the July title shot. But Yaqubov remains focused on his goal and is determined to overcome these obstacles.Championship Ambitions
Yaqubov's dream is to become a world champion, and he believes that training in the United States will help him achieve this goal. He is excited to work with this great team and get back into the mix of the super featherweight division.Manager Kambosos, who guided his son George to the unified lightweight title in 2021, is confident in Yaqubov's potential. He believes that Yaqubov will stay active, secure his visas, and train with top fighters in the States. The goal is to get him the Foster rematch he earned by beating Vicente.Promoter Lewkowicz, renowned for discovering global talent, also shares Kambosos' sentiments. He believes that Yaqubov is a highly talented fighter from Central Asia who just needs top training in the U.S. to reach his potential. They are optimistic that Yaqubov will regain the WBC No. 1 position and secure the title shot he deserves.Yaqubov will take the first step back toward his championship ambitions next week in his return fight against Parpiev. This fight is a crucial one for him as he looks to build on his recent wins and regain his confidence. With his talent and determination, there is no doubt that Yaqubov will continue to make waves in the boxing world.