Heavyweight Boxing
Tashkent, Uzbekistan - Bakhodir Jalolov delivered another emphatic statement in his rise through the heavyweight division, scoring a brutal fourth-round knockout over previously unbeaten Nigerian contender Solomon Adebayo at the Humo Arena. The bout served as the co-main event of a major Lift Promotion and Matchroom Boxing showcase attended by international stars, including undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk and multi-division great Terence Crawford.
The atmosphere inside the Humo Arena reflected both national pride and growing global interest in Uzbekistan’s expanding professional scene. By the time Jalolov made his ring walk, more than 10,000 fans were on their feet, fully aware that their Olympic champion is inching closer to the world-level elite.
Solomon Adebayo entered the ring with a perfect record, 14–0 (13 KOs), and the reputation of being one of Africa’s most dangerous emerging big men. Taller fighters, aggressive fighters, and heavy punchers had all struggled with him.
But from the opening bell, it was Jalolov who dictated everything.
The 6’7” southpaw immediately established distance, range, and rhythm. His jab snapped Adebayo’s head back repeatedly, and his footwork — economical but precise — kept him in full control. Adebayo tried to respond with pressure and overhand rights, but Jalolov’s timing, patience, and discipline neutralized the danger.
The decisive moment came early in the fourth round.
Jalolov stepped in behind a stiff right hook, followed by a left hand that detonated cleanly through Adebayo’s guard. The Nigerian dropped heavily, unable to beat the count. The referee waved the contest off immediately, giving Jalolov a highlight-reel knockout in front of a roaring home crowd.
With the victory, the Uzbek star moves to 17–0 (15 KOs), adding another powerful finish to one of the cleanest records in the division.
This wasn’t just another win.
It was a demonstration of:
Adebayo, who had never tasted defeat or real adversity as a professional, suffered his first loss in decisive fashion.
For Jalolov, the performance reinforces what insiders have known for years:
he is one of the most complete, least exposed, and most dangerous rising heavyweights in the world.
He remains a very live threat to any top contender.
With 2026 approaching, Jalolov is expected to pursue higher-profile opponents. His team has long expressed interest in moving toward the division’s upper tier, and this performance will likely accelerate conversations with major promoters and networks.