Frank Smith clarifies Josh Kelly’s promotional situation with Matchroom Boxing

The career of Josh Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs) has always been somewhat of an enigma, with plenty of promise, but maybe not the promise fulfilled.

He has recorded impressive wins against Ishmael Davis and, most recently, Flavius Biea. It was recently announced by various media outlets, including BoxingScene, that Team Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) have called off a purse bid between their fighter and Josh Kelly.

Rumours then began to surface that Kelly had re-signed with Matchroom, with the promotional giant expected to stage the fight. Frank Smith has spoken to Boxing Social and clarified Kelly’s promotional future.

Frank Smith clarifies Josh Kelly’s promotional situation

Speaking to Boxing Social, Smith was asked to speak on the situation and clarify the Mutazaliev fight and Kelly’s promotional future:

“Yeah, Matchroom will be promoting Josh Kelly. Nothing’s announced yet. Lots of talk. I will always wait until it’s formally announced on all these things. 

“I’ve been speaking to Adam Booth quite a lot. He still has some form of relationship with Wasserman, but not from a promotional capacity as far as i’m aware. So, Matchroom would be promoting him moving forward.”

Kelly vs Murtazaliev – date targeted

BoxingScene further reveals that the Kelly-Murtazaliev fight is being targeted for a date near the end of January in the U.K., with DAZN streaming the bout.

Despite Murtazaliev being the current IBF super welterweight champion, it appears likely the fight will be headed to the north east of England, with Sunderland or Newcastle likely landing spots.

Murtazaliev has a fearsome reputation following his destructive win against Tim Tszyu, and would present a formidable target for Kelly.

The Brit would also present a complex puzzle for the reigning champion. Kelly is fleet-footed and difficult to pin down. His excellent movement and punch placement could frustrate the champion.

Kelly vs Murtazaliev, who are you backing?