Montreal, PQ, Canada (March 27, 2024) - On May 25th,  the man known as the “Lion,” Arslanbek Makhmudov, will risk a return to the arena against the dangerous oceanic giant who defeated him in the amateur ranks, Junior Fa. This internationally significant event will be presented by the Quebec promoter Eye of the Tiger, in collaboration with the Cataractes and the City of Shawinigan, and will be broadcast live on the Punching Grace and ESPN+ networks starting at 7:00 PM.

A few months after his first career loss, Arslanbek Makhmudov (18-1, 17 KOs) will step back into the ring in Shawinigan to restart his conquest of the heavyweight division. After such a defeat, many would have first opted for a tune-up fight, but not the “Lion”, he is determined to prove that it was an injury that caused his loss and therefore, that no heavyweight in the world can defeat him when he is healthy. To send a message to the entire heavyweight division, he will attempt to avenge an old defeat against New Zealander Junior Fa (20-3, 11 KOs).

Makhmudov is thus ready to risk everything upon his return to reconquer the top of the world rankings, where he is currently ranked 20th.

“Honestly, I am happy. It’s good work on the part of my team to already secure a new big fight, and especially a fight that will be excellent. I’ve already faced him in a very close fight that he won when we were amateurs, so I am more than determined to avenge that defeat,” says Makhmudov.

Junior Fa (20-3, 11 KOs) has also fought on the boxing card presented across the globe, in Riyadh, last December. In that bout, he faced Frank Sanchez for a Continental Americas title. With over 100 rounds of experience in 23 fights and a size just as imposing as that of the “Lion,” Fa has what it takes to compete with the Montreal adoptee. He is determined to replicate the feat and beat Makhmudov again. His track record has proven itself, having fought elite athletes such as Joseph Parker with whom he went through the 12 rounds of a highly competitive fight.