Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing
The glamour of Monaco played host to a spectacular night of boxing as Murodjon Akhmadaliev secured the interim WBA Super-Bantamweight World Title with an electrifying third-round stoppage of Ricardo Espinoza Franco. The Salle Des Étoiles at Sporting Monte-Carlo witnessed a series of remarkable bouts, with fighters from around the globe showcasing their skill, determination, and heart.
Akhmadaliev's Road to Redemption and Callout to Inoue
Uzbekistan's Murodjon Akhmadaliev (13-1, 10 KOs) delivered a dominant performance, halting Mexico’s Ricardo Espinoza Franco (30-5, 25 KOs) to claim the vacant interim WBA crown. The victory marked a triumphant return to the ring for Akhmadaliev, who now eyes a showdown with boxing legend Naoya Inoue.
“Thank you, Monaco, and my fans from Uzbekistan who came to support me,” said Akhmadaliev. “I missed the ring so much. The only thing I want to say about Naoya Inoue is, ‘Why are you ducking me?’ The best should fight the best. I’m here, I’m ready—anywhere, anytime!”
With this victory, Akhmadaliev has positioned himself as a mandatory contender, increasing pressure on Inoue to accept the challenge.
Mosquea Crowned EBU European Cruiserweight Champion
In a battle of unbeaten cruiserweights, France’s Leonardo Mosquea (16-0, 9 KOs) outpointed England’s Cheavon Clarke (10-1, 7 KOs) over 12 grueling rounds to claim the vacant EBU European Title. Mosquea knocked Clarke down in the opening round and maintained his dominance throughout to earn a career-defining victory.
“For me, this win represents years of hard work,” said Mosquea. “Step by step, I’ve achieved the French Championship, the European Silver Belt, and now the EBU Title. This is just the beginning—we’re going all the way to the top.”
Mosquea credited his team and family for their unwavering support, dedicating his success to those who have been with him throughout his journey.
Beatriz Ferreira Retains IBF Lightweight World Title
Brazil’s Beatriz Ferreira (6-0, 2 KOs) showcased her dominance in the lightweight division, defending her IBF title with a flawless unanimous decision victory over France’s Licia Boudersa (23-3-2, 4 KOs).
“I’m still finding my rhythm in the professional game, but this performance shows I’m ready for more,” Ferreira said. “My goal is clear—I’m coming for all the belts in this division. Get ready!”
Maxi Hughes Shines in Continental Lightweight Battle
Rossington’s Maxi Hughes (28-7-2, 6 KOs) claimed the WBA Continental Lightweight Title with a decisive points victory over Ireland’s Gary Cully (18-2, 10 KOs). Hughes dominated the ten-round bout, leaving no doubt as he inflicted a serious cut above Cully’s left eye.
“I feel fresher than ever at 35,” Hughes said. “This win is for my family and fans who’ve supported me everywhere. There’s still plenty of fight left in this dog, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
Teremoana’s Explosive First-Round Knockout
Australian heavyweight prospect Teremoana Teremoana (5-0, 5 KOs) continued his perfect streak with a first-round knockout of Ukraine’s Volodymyr Katsuk. Fighting with emotion and power, Teremoana dedicated his win to his late uncle, promising to refine his skills as he rises through the ranks.
“I represent Australia and the Pacific Islands,” Teremoana said. “I’m on a journey to the top, and I won’t stop until I become Heavyweight Champion of the World.”
A Night to Remember
The thrilling night in Monaco showcased the heart and grit of fighters across divisions, proving once again why boxing is the ultimate stage for human endurance and skill. With Akhmadaliev now on a collision course with Inoue and other champions asserting their dominance, the future of the sport looks brighter than ever.
For Monaco, the event further cemented its status as a hub for world-class boxing, combining the glitz of the Principality with the raw intensity of the ring.