Bakhodir Jalolov is reportedly returning to amateur boxing after being selected for Uzbekistan’s Asian Games squad.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist had previously indicated after the 2024 Paris Games that he planned to focus fully on his professional career. Jalolov (17-0, 15 KOs) is now set to return to tournament boxing at the age of 32.
The 6-foot-7 southpaw has already won two Olympic gold medals and two World Championship titles during an extensive amateur career.
One possible motivation could be a run at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. A third gold medal would put Jalolov alongside Laszlo Papp, Teofilo Stevenson and Felix Savon as the only male boxers to achieve the feat.
However, another extended amateur run would delay Jalolov’s professional progression at a stage when he is still unbeaten and considered capable of competing at a high level in the heavyweight division.
Uzbekistan’s Asian Games squad also reportedly includes established professional Bektemir Melikuziev.
Image Credit: Getty Images