Light heavyweight boxers Imam Khataev and Yunior Menendez are scheduled to fight in Grozny, Russia, on December 7, both will seek to impress their fans.
“Imam dedicates his life to boxing. He’s every promoter’s dream, a guy who’s constantly training and staying active.” Eye of the Tiger president Camille Estephan said.
“It’s perfect for us because facing Yunior Menendez, a top-15 fighter in the world, with less than a month’s notice is quite a challenge,” Estephan added.
Khataev (8-0, 8 KOs) started his year with some momentum when he got an opportunity to fight in the undercard for the fight of the year between Artur Beterbiev and Callum Smith in January.
In this final game, Khataev was against Poland’s Michal Ludwiczak. The fight was fiery to say the least, Khataev proved his dominance and ability to knock down Ludwiczak in round two earned him the NABF light heavyweight belt.
This victory also became a great achievement of the future star and contributed to the definition of him as a worthy opponent in the light heavyweight category.
More on his performances, Khataev kept on strengthening his results after clinching the championship title.
Later in May, he fought on the undercard of the fight of the year contender, Vasyl Lomachenko against George Kambosos Jr. fight in Sydney, Australia.
Here, he was against world contender Ricards Bolotniks. Bolotniks put up a good fight and the match was really one that showed how well Khataev could perform as the match was stopped in the sixth round.
This victory not only put a cheque on his record but also in creating a feeling that he is the one who is rapidly climbing up in the boxing world.
“I’m always working to be ready to face anyone, anywhere, anytime. On December 7,” Khataev said.
“I plan to put on another great show, demonstrate my progress, and, most importantly, get closer to a world title.” Khataev added.
Menendez (11-0, 8 KOs), on the other hand, has the same desire. He will be going for his fourth successive win against a fighter who has never lost a fight in his career.
The Cuban, who gained his WBC world rating after claiming the WBC FECARBOX strap in 2023, of which he made a successful defence in June by brutally dispatching senior compatriot Junior Boada.
