Arslanbek Makhmudov – Record, Next Fight and Full Profile

Arslanbek Makhmudov is a Russian heavyweight boxer who has built a reputation as one of the most feared punchers in the division. Known by the nickname “Lion,” the 197 cm tall fighter has spent much of his professional career based in Montreal, Canada. As of early 2026, he is preparing for the most significant bout of his career against former world champion Tyson Fury.

Born on 7 June 1989 in Mozdok, North Ossetia, Makhmudov began his professional journey in 2017 after an extensive amateur background. His rise through the heavyweight ranks has been marked by explosive knockouts and a steady accumulation of regional titles. Yet recent defeats have raised questions about his ability to compete at elite level.

This profile examines what is known and what remains uncertain about the boxer: his record, physical measurements, personal life, financial standing, and the road ahead.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s Boxing Record and Rankings

• Makhmudov holds a knockout rate above 90 percent, with 19 of his 21 wins coming inside the distance.
• His undefeated streak ended in December 2023 when he lost to Agit Kabayel.
• A second defeat followed in 2025, leaving his career record at 21-3.
• He has held the NABF heavyweight title (2019–2023) and the NABA title (2021–2022).
• In October 2023 he defeated Junior Anthony Wright for the vacant WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title.
• His ranking has fluctuated; the WBA listed him as high as 4th in the heavyweight world rankings in late 2023.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s Next Fight and Opponent

The search for a confirmed next fight for Makhmudov produces conflicting signals. The WBA boxer profile includes a 2026 bout entry against Tyson Fury on 10 April in London, listed with a UD 12-round result. That entry appears to record a completed fight rather than an upcoming one. ESPN, in an article published in January 2026, described Makhmudov as Tyson Fury’s scheduled opponent, which suggests a deal is in place but official details remain unannounced.

If the Fury fight materialises, it will represent a dramatic step up in competition for Makhmudov. Fury is a former unified heavyweight champion with experience against elite opposition. For Makhmudov, the bout is a career-defining opportunity that could either rejuvenate his title aspirations or end his run as a contender.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s Physical Stats: Height and Weight

Height

Sources differ slightly on Makhmudov’s height. Wikipedia records him at 197 cm, which converts to 6 feet 6 inches. The WBA lists him at 6 feet 5.5 inches. Both measurements place him among the taller heavyweights in the division.

Weight

Makhmudov has typically fought around 118 kg (260 lb). As a heavyweight, his weight can fluctuate depending on training camp and opponent. His reach is 194 cm (76 in), giving him a solid physical frame for orthodox fighting.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s Personal Life: Wife and Religion

Wife and family

No reliable source confirms whether Makhmudov is married or has children. Public records and credible news articles about the fighter contain no mention of a spouse or family details. Because this information is not disclosed, any claims about his marital status remain unverified.

Religion

Makhmudov’s religion is not established in any credible source. An IMDb page credits him as “Muslim Salikhov’s Cornerman,” but that refers to a role in a film or event, not to Makhmudov’s personal beliefs. Without a statement from the fighter or documentation from a reliable outlet, his religious affiliation is unknown.

Arslanbek Makhmudov’s Net Worth and Earnings

No verified net worth figure exists for Makhmudov in the available sources. None of the high-authority outlets—Wikipedia, ESPN, BoxRec, the WBA—include an audited or cited estimate of his earnings. Any number circulating online should be treated as unconfirmed speculation. His income would likely derive from fight purses, sponsorship deals, and prize money from his regional title wins, but no breakdown is publicly available.

Career Timeline of Arslanbek Makhmudov

1. Amateur career: Represented Russia; details of exact record and medals not confirmed in provided sources.
2. 2017: Professional debut in Canada.
3. 2019: Won the NABF heavyweight title.
4. 2021: Won the NABA heavyweight title.
5. October 2023: Defeated Junior Anthony Wright for the vacant WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title.
6. December 2023: Lost to Agit Kabayel (first professional defeat).
7. 2025: Second defeat, to Efe Ajagba according to available records.
8. January 2026: Announced as Tyson Fury’s opponent per ESPN.

What We Know and What Remains Unclear

Analysis and Context of Makhmudov’s Career

Makhmudov entered the top-10 heavyweight rankings after an undefeated streak that included wins over former champion Samuel Peter and consistent performers like Dave Allen. His knockout power made him a dangerous opponent for any heavyweight. However, two consecutive losses—to Agit Kabayel in December 2023 and Efe Ajagba in 2025—have exposed vulnerabilities. He has relied on power punching rather than technical boxing, a style that elite fighters have learned to neutralise.

The Fury fight represents a crossroads. A win would catapult him back into championship contention. A loss, especially a decisive one, could push him to the periphery of the division. Compared to other Eastern European heavyweights, Makhmudov has less amateur pedigree and fewer high-profile wins. His career trajectory depends heavily on what happens in the ring over the next 12 months.

Sources and Quotations

“Makhmudov has held multiple regional heavyweight championships, including the NABF title from 2019 to 2023, and the NABA title from 2021 to 2022.”

— Wikipedia

“Arslanbek Makhmudov is a Russian heavyweight boxer based in Canada. He has fought 23 times professionally, with 21 wins and two defeats. 19 of those wins came by knockout.”

— ESPN

“Height 6′ 5½″ / 197cm; stance orthodox; residence Montreal, Quebec, Canada.”

— BoxRec

What Happens Next for Makhmudov?

The immediate future for Makhmudov hinges on the fight with Tyson Fury. If confirmed, contract details, a weigh-in, and a press tour will follow. A win could lead to mandatory title shots or unification bouts. A loss might prompt a step back in competition or, depending on the margin of defeat, retirement. For now, the boxing world waits for official confirmation of one of the most intriguing heavyweight match-ups in recent memory.

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