Israil Madrimov and Serhii Bohachuk are reportedly in talks for a bout on the undercard of the highly anticipated Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk 2 event, set to take place on December 21st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The potential fight between Madrimov and Bohachuk was first revealed by boxing insider Fernando Sabatini. If finalized, this matchup would add significant intrigue to an already massive card, as both fighters are former junior middleweight champions looking to bounce back from recent close defeats.

For Madrimov, this fight represents a crucial step in his comeback after losing his WBA junior middleweight title to Terence Crawford by unanimous decision on August 3rd in Los Angeles. Facing Bohachuk will require a different strategy, as Madrimov needs to focus more on his power. His tactical approach against Crawford won’t work against Bohachuk, a relentless fighter who could capitalize on any passivity. Fans on social media expect an easy win for Madrimov, but only if he abandons the cautious style that cost him in the later rounds against Crawford.

Watch Ortiz vs. Bohachuk highlights: Watch

Bohachuk, a former WBC junior middleweight champion, is also seeking redemption after losing his title to Vergil Ortiz Jr. by a majority decision in August. Despite the close and controversial nature of that fight, Ortiz’s camp showed no interest in a rematch, leaving Bohachuk looking for another high-profile opponent. A win over Madrimov would help restore his standing in the division.

Both fighters have a lot on the line in this potential clash, making it an essential matchup for their careers. With Madrimov’s need to up his aggression and Bohachuk’s powerful, come-forward style, this fight could turn into an explosive affair.

Image Credit: DAZN