Gassiev Set for Yoka Defence, But Eyes Are on the Division’s Elite

Murat Gassiev will make the first defence of his WBA 'regular' heavyweight title against 2016 Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka on July 11 at the VTB Arena in Moscow, Russia. While the bout is a solid first title defence for the Russian, the bigger question is whether "Iron" can eventually mix it with the division’s true elite—Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury, and Anthony Joshua. Gassiev, 32, has more than earned his spot in the heavyweight conversation. After a decorated cruiserweight run, he has campaigned at heavyweight since 2020, amassing a far deeper resume than his early days in the division. His overall pro record now stands at an impressive 33 wins (26 by KO) against just 2 losses, capturing the WBA belt with a highlight-reel sixth-round knockout of Kubrat Pulev in Dubai last December. His only defeats are a shutout unanimous decision to Usyk in their 2018 undisputed cruiserweight classic, and a 2023 upset loss to Otto Wallin. Yoka (15-3, 12 KOs) presents a live challenge with his 6'7" frame and Olympic pedigree, but it's a fight Gassiev is widely expected to win. To truly gauge his ceiling, a fight with Daniel Dubois is the perfect litmus test. Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) is a wrecking ball whose three losses have come against world-class operators—twice to Usyk and once to Joe Joyce. If Gassiev could absorb Dubois' firepower and land his signature left hook, it would answer far more questions than a routine win over Yoka. Against the top tier, the challenges are clear. A rematch with Usyk would see the now-heavyweight Ukrainian's footwork and volume remain a puzzle. Fury's unorthodox size and reach would likely see him box off the back foot, and Joshua's combination punching could test Gassiev's durability. But with his proven experience and concussive power, Gassiev has the tools to make any fight uncomfortable for the elite. A statement win over Yoka, followed by a scalp like Dubois, could see his name thrust firmly into the heavyweight title mix. (Photo credit: Ring Magazine)

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