Israil Madrimov of Uzbekistan has become embroiled in controversy following his sudden withdrawal from an expected super welterweight bout against Serhii Bohachuk on February 22nd at Riyadh Arena in Saudi Arabia. This decision sparked widespread discussion and criticism both from fans as well as commentators alike, prompting many fans to boycott that major boxing event as it took place and leaving fans and commentators outraged over this move.
Madrimov, who previously challenged Terence Crawford and Tyson Fury respectively, had initially planned to fight Bohachuk at Riyadh’s December 21 event headlined by Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury; this plan however, was abruptly altered with Madrimov instead facing Vergil Ortiz Jr. at short notice – prompting many observers to question its feasibility as soon as soon after such high stakes matches take place.
The situation took another turn when it was disclosed that Madrimov was suffering from acute bronchitis, necessitating his withdrawal from the December fight. His Excellency Turki Alalshikh later announced that British fighter Ishmael Davis would replace Madrimov on the card for the Usyk vs. Fury rematch.
This series of events drew criticism from Show Bizz The Adult, a prominent boxing YouTuber, who accused Madrimov of using his health diagnosis as an excuse to avoid facing Bohachuk. He sarcastically referred to the situation as “duckoroni pizza,” suggesting that Madrimov was intentionally dodging the fight.
Eddie Hearn Addresses the Situation
In response to the mounting criticism, Eddie Hearn, Madrimov’s promoter, shared insights into the situation in an interview. Hearn strenuously defended his fighter, asserting that Madrimov had every intention of facing both Bohachuk and Ortiz, contingent upon his victory and physical condition following the first fight. According to Hearn, Madrimov’s diagnosis was genuine, leading them to consult with Alalshikh for a suitable replacement.
Hearn explained that Ishmael Davis was chosen as Madrimov’s replacement due to his willingness to step into fights on short notice, such as against Josh Kelly recently. Though Davis fell to Kelly, Hearn still applauded his readiness in entering the ring compared with what his condition was prior to their bout.
Israil Madrimov’s decision to withdraw from his fight with Serhii Bohachuk continues to stir controversy within boxing circles. No matter your opinion on his behavior during or following their fight, this incident cast a shadow over Madrimov’s otherwise promising career trajectory and caused ripple effects throughout.