Fight Details
- Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
- Time: Main card starts at 10:00 PM ET, ring walks expected around 11:00 PM ET
- Venue: Pechanga Arena, San Diego, California
- Broadcast: ESPN+
- Title at Stake: Vacant Interim IBF Lightweight Championship
Raymond Muratalla (22-0-0, 17 KOs) will face Zaur Abdullaev (20-1-0, 12 KOs) in a high-stakes battle for the interim IBF lightweight title. Muratalla, an undefeated rising star, looks to solidify his place among the elite at 135 pounds, while Abdullaev aims to extend his nine-fight winning streak since his lone career loss to Devin Haney in 2019.
Fighter Profiles & Recent Form
Raymond Muratalla (USA)
- Age: 28
- Height: 5’8″
- Reach: 72 inches
- Stance: Orthodox
- Record: 22 wins, 0 losses, 0 draws (17 KOs)
- Titles Held: None
Muratalla has been on a tear, stopping five of his last seven opponents. His most recent victory was a second-round TKO of Jesus Perez in November 2024, showcasing his explosive power. He also holds notable wins over Tevin Farmer and Jeremia Nakathila, proving his ability to handle experienced competition.
Zaur Abdullaev (Russia)
- Age: 31
- Height: 5’9″
- Reach: 71.7 inches
- Stance: Orthodox
- Record: 20 wins, 1 loss, 0 draws (12 KOs)
- Titles Held: None
Abdullaev has rebounded impressively since his loss to Haney, securing victories over former champions Jorge Linares and Roger Gutierrez. His last fight saw him win a unanimous decision over Gutierrez in February 2024, proving his durability and technical skill.
Tactical Breakdown & Keys to Victory
Muratalla’s Strategy
- Pressure & Volume: Muratalla fights aggressively, keeping opponents on the back foot.
- Combination Punching: He excels at breaking down defenses with speed and accuracy.
- Explosive Power: His 77% knockout ratio suggests he can end fights early.
Abdullaev’s Strategy
- High Guard & Counterpunching: Abdullaev keeps a tight defense and looks for openings.
- Jab & Uppercut: He effectively doubles up on his jab and explodes with uppercuts.
- Durability: He has gone the distance against elite competition, proving his resilience.
Muratalla’s aggressive style and knockout power make him the favorite, but Abdullaev’s experience and defensive skills could push the fight to the later rounds. Experts predict a late stoppage or decision victory for Muratalla, unless Abdullaev’s counterpunching disrupts his rhythm.
FIGHT ODDS
Raymond Muratalla – 650
Zaur Abdullaev + 425
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
