Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Vergil Ortiz Jr: ‘There Has Been Discussions’

2025 is in full flow in the boxing world, with Dmitry Bivol vs Artur Beterbiev 2 already happening alongside a plethora of other great fights in the pipeline. Dan Rafael via his X account has revealed that there have been discussions for Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Vergil Ortiz Jr. for the IBF super welterweight title.

Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Vergil Ortiz Jr: Fight Negotiation Update

Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Vergil Ortiz Jr Discussions

The X post from Rafael said: “Per both sides, there has been discussion(s) for Bakhram Murtazaliev-Vergil Ortiz IBF 154 title fight Turki is interested in but not close on the money at this point for the Golden Boy/Ortiz side. #boxing“

A fight between these two would be an absolute war, with both carrying plenty of power in their punches. Ortiz (23-0, 21 KOs) has shown other parts of his arsenal in his last two fights. Against Serhii Bohachuk he overcame two knockdowns to grind out an impressive majority decision win, with the judge’s scorecards reading 113-113 and 114-112 x2.

Read More: Five Super Welterweight Fighters to Watch in 2025

His most recent victory over Israil Madrimov saw the American overcome a tough opening few rounds with the Uzbek moving well and picking his shots, but as the fight progressed, the pressure from Ortiz dragged him back into the fight, with power and accuracy aplenty. The work rate of Ortiz ensured he deservedly won by a unanimous decision, with the judges scorecards reading 117-111 and 115-113 x2.

Murtazaliev

Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) claimed the IBF title with a lacklustre late stoppage win over Jack Culcay. Most recently, the 32-year-old Russian demolished Tim Tszyu in three rounds to retain his IBF strap. Known for his aggressive, come-forward style, Murtazaliev throws every punch with venom. He demonstrated against Tszyu that he carries power in both hands, though his left hook remains the money shot.

Read More: Antonio Tarver Analyses Bakhram Murtazaliev’s Dominant Win Over Tim Tszyu

When considering a potential fight with Ortiz, there’s always a risk that styles might not gel — but Bakhram Murtazaliev vs Vergil Ortiz Jr seems destined to ignite. With both fighters always on the front foot, this matchup all but guarantees fireworks should the fight be made.

Will It Happen?

However, it remains unlikely this fight will happen next, with Main Events promoter Kathy Duva, who represents Murtazaliev, telling Fight Freaks Unite that they had accepted an offer from Alalshikh for the fight.

Golden Boy told Fight Freaks Unite they were interested in the fight, but the financial reward was not sufficient. He explained that the money on offer was “half of what he earned versus (Israel) Madrimov.”

Team Mutazaliev seemed to believe Ortiz was on board for the fight but Ortiz’s father, Vergil Sr., has claimed their side knew nothing about negotiatios: “How can my son negotiate when his hands are nowhere (healed) and might require surgery,” he posted to social media. “One thing I’m not is a liar. I can swear on all my children on a Bible.”

Duva fascinatingly revealed: “The date offered was June 28 at Alcatraz. Sorry Vergil won’t be there,” Duva wrote. “Hope he gets well soon.”