Karen Chukhadzhian

Karen Chukhadzhian, born on August 3, 1996, is a Ukrainian orthodox fighter standing at 5’9½” (176 cm). Hailing from Kiev, Ukraine, where he continues to reside, Chukhadzhian has carved a path in the welterweight division with a precise and tactical approach to boxing.

Throughout his career, Chukhadzhian has showcased his skills across Europe, gaining recognition with notable wins over opponents like Harry Scarff at Hotel Elysee in Rothenbaum and Pietro Rossetti at Zenith - Die Kulturhalle in Munich. The latter, a high-stakes bout for the IBF Inter-Continental Welterweight title in April 2024, highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.

While Chukhadzhian faced a setback against Jaron Ennis in their bout for the IBF Interim World Welterweight title, the experience was invaluable. Competing on such a prestigious platform against an undefeated powerhouse like Ennis offered Chukhadzhian insights into the highest levels of the sport, pushing him to refine his skill set even further.

Karen Chukhadzhian is an Eastern European boxer hailing from the rich tradition of former Soviet school boxing, a lineage known for its emphasis on technique, discipline, and strategic thinking in the ring. His fighting style reflects the “hermit crab” approach, where he embodies both agility and power. Just as a hermit crab moves with calculated precision, Chukhadzhian employs fluid footwork that allows him to navigate the ring with ease while maintaining a tight defense.

In his boxing repertoire, Chukhadzhian utilizes a dual-claw strategy. His “big claw,” representing his powerful punches, can deliver crushing blows that incapacitate opponents, while his “small claw” signifies his jabs and feints, designed to probe and create openings. This clever use of power and precision mirrors the dual functionality of a crab’s claws, allowing him to adapt to different situations in the ring. His punches are not just thrown with brute strength; they are carefully calculated, reflecting the tactical mindset ingrained in Soviet boxing training.

Chukhadzhian’s movement is characterized by a coiled agility rather than stiffness. He expertly shifts in and out of range, creating a rhythm that keeps opponents guessing. His ability to maintain a solid defense while simultaneously looking for counterpunching opportunities showcases the depth of his training. Like a crab that strikes with both power and finesse, he knows precisely when to unleash a potent shot and when to employ subtlety to disrupt his opponent’s flow.

This disciplined, methodical approach allows Chukhadzhian to gradually break down his opponents, using a blend of tactical pressure and effective counters. As he tightens his grip on the fight, opponents often find themselves overwhelmed, unable to escape the precision and power of his punches. Chukhadzhian’s boxing style, deeply rooted in the former Soviet school, exemplifies the combination of patience, strategy, and explosive power that makes him a formidable force in the ring.