Josh Kelly delivered a decisive but closely contested performance in Newcastle, securing the IBF light‑middleweight title on a majority decision after five rounds against Bakhram Murtazaliev. The judges’ scorecards reflected a competitive bout, but Kelly’s consistent pressure and superior punch accuracy earned him the narrow advantage required to claim the world championship. The fight showcased two skilled athletes, with Kelly’s tactical approach and Murtazaliev’s resilience testing each other across every round.

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The contest underscored the depth of talent within the IBF rankings, as Murtazaliev presented a formidable challenge, absorbing heavy blows while attempting to reach the neutral corner for a rebound. Kelly’s use of counterpunching, combined with his jab to maintain distance, allowed him to control the pacing of the match and to apply strategic pressure on the defense of his opponent. In addition to the split in the scorecards, the bout was notable for its high technical proficiency and the boxers’ adherence to the judges’ guidelines, ensuring a fair assessment of performance.

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With the victory, Kelly becomes the IBF light‑middleweight champion, adding a significant credential to his professional record. The bout’s outcome has placed the championship within the purview of a British athlete, further diversifying the representation of the title’s holders historically dominated by fighters from specific regions. The local fan base in Newcastle expressed approval of the organization of the match, citing the quality of the competition and the importance of showcasing skillful boxing at a premier venue. The world title’s new holder will face mandatory defenses in the coming months, confirming his status as the benchmark in this weight class.