Heavyweight beast Arslanbek Makhmudov is not pulling any punches in his pursuit of a clash with Oleksandr Usyk in 2025.
‘The Lion’ [19-1, 18 KOs] looks to secure a 2oth professional victory on Saturday night against one defeat to Agit Kabayel due to a broken hand in Saudi Arabia. Makhmudov’s latest test comes against Guido Vianello [12-2-1, 19 KOs], who – like his forthcoming rival, has faced setbacks during his career.
They battle it out over ten rounds on the undercard of Christian Mbilli vs Sergiy Derevyanchenko in Quebec City, with Makhmudov sure his chance to become a champion is on the horizon.
“It’s nothing personal, but I want August 17th to be the worst night of his life,” Makhmudov said about Vianello. “This time, I’m going back on the hunt.
“Guido Vianello said it would be an easy fight. I’m looking forward to Saturday night because he’s wrong, and he will find out.”
On fighting in Quebec again, he added, “I love this city. This will be the fourth time I have fought in Quebec City. I’m excited to fight on Saturday night. I can’t wait.”
Reiterating his focus on a title, three of which are in the hands of Usyk, Makhmudov stated, “I respect my opponents. But I go in there to hunt. It’s nothing personal, but I will make this the baddest night of his life. This is my goal. I’m sorry, but the sport is like that.
“Ever since I started my career, my goal has been to become a champion. I have to destroy anyone who is against me.”
Vianello stands in the way of Makhmudov and promises to do everything in his power to stop the knockout puncher in his tracks.
“I’m 30 years old. I’ve worked my whole life for this. This is my time. You’ll see it on Saturday. I’ll be too fast and too good for him. I need to be myself to win this fight.
“I’m really happy to be here. I’ve trained a lot. This is my sixth year as a professional. I’m ready. I respect my opponent a lot. My last fight was very close. I thought I won that fight. But that’s in the past. We can’t change the past. So, we are here to change the future.
“My opponent is the perfect guy to make a big step in the heavyweight division. I want to be among the top heavyweights in one year from now. So it’s the perfect time for me.”
Mbilli vs Derevyanchenko and Makhmudov vs Vianello will be broadcast live in the U.S. on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
