In a stunning upset at Riyadh's Kingdom Arena, heavyweight contender Arslanbek Makhmudov faced his first career defeat to Agit Kabayel. This fourth-round knockout on December 23, 2023, left many questioning Makhmudov’s future in the heavyweight division. The #3 WBC and #4 WBA heavyweight, Makhmudov (18-1, 17 KOs), was not just defeated; he was dominated by the 31-year-old Kabayel (24-0, 16 KOs) throughout the fight.

Kabayel’s strategy exposed a critical weakness in Makhmudov’s defense: his inability to handle body shots. From the beginning, Makhmudov seemed troubled by Kabayel’s focused body attacks, leading to his downfall in the fourth round. This revelation poses a significant challenge for Makhmudov’s team. They now face the daunting task of rebuilding his technique and confidence, especially considering Makhmudov’s age doesn't allow the luxury of a slow comeback.

In his post-fight interview with Queensberry Boxing Promotions, Kabayel expressed satisfaction with his performance, attributing his success to his trainer’s perfect game plan focused on body and head attacks. Makhmudov, often trapped against the ropes, found himself an easy target for Kabayel’s relentless body shots. This tactical error highlighted the need for Makhmudov to adapt his strategy, particularly by utilizing the center of the ring more effectively.

Kabayel, meanwhile, is ready for the next challenge. Despite his impressive victory, he remains realistic about his path to a world title shot, understanding the need to become a mandatory challenger first. The victory has earned him praise from fellow boxers like Dereck Chisora, who commended Kabayel’s skillful performance and pointed out Makhmudov’s relative inexperience against real fighters.

Looking forward, Kabayel is open to discussing his next opponent, aiming to consult with his team for the right decision. For Makhmudov, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. This loss has not only impacted his record but also raised questions about his resilience and adaptability in the ring. As he returns to his training, Makhmudov must address these vulnerabilities and refine his strategy to prove he can still be a formidable force in the heavyweight division.

Image Credit: Sky Sports