Zaur Abdullaev has withdrawn from his scheduled super lightweight bout against Adam Azim on November 15, leaving one of the year’s biggest cards without one of its key undercard attractions.
The Russian contender was expected to provide Azim with the toughest test of his career, as his withdrawal comes just months after he challenged Raymond Muratalla for the IBF interim lightweight title. Muratalla won that fight by unanimous decision before being elevated to full IBF champion, while Abdullaev announced plans to move up in weight for his next opportunity.
The 31-year-old’s reasons for pulling out remain unclear, with no confirmation yet on whether an injury is involved. The bout would have marked Azim’s return to the ring since his impressive ninth-round stoppage of former world champion Sergey Lipinets in February.
According to sources, a replacement opponent is already being sought to keep Azim active on the November 15 card.