Murat Gassiev considering a new deal before a move to heavyweight
Former unified cruiserweight champion Murat Gassiev to sign with Eddie Hearn and will be featured on DAZN.
Hearn previously hinted at this deal when he told media sources about a potential “big name” signing considering a move to heavyweight. With Oleksandr Usyk already on the roster, and the rest of the top cruiserweights tied up in the WBSS, Gassiev was the only name left.
This really is a good signing for the company. The Russian fighter only lost to Usyk who is one of the top pound-for-pound fighters. The two met in the finals of the WBSS for the undisputed cruiserweight crown.
Gassiev is only 25 years-old and still carries much of the promise he had prior to that fight. Many fans had him favored to beat the now undisputed champion.
A move to heavyweight may just be the career move he needs. He certainly has a heavyweight frame at nearly 6’4″ with a 77-inch reach. He won’t be too small and his devastating knockout power should transfer just as well.
While he’s been out of the ring since July, this news will surely have fans eager for his return. Furthermore, adding depth to the heavyweight roster is always a good thing.
If Gassiev does indeed sign and move up, he will join a heavyweight roster that has unified WBA/IBF/WBO champion Anthony Joshua, Jarrell Miller, Dillian Whyte, Filip Hrgovic, and his former foe Usyk.
It also includes Michael Hunter who also previously lost to Usyk, however, has found success at heavyweight. If Gassiev can follow that path, there are lots of good opponents for him. If he chooses to stay at cruiserweight and reclaim the titles soon to be vacated by Usyk, a fight with Matchroom’s Lawrence Okolie would be an intriguing bout.
Needless to say this is a good move for everyone involved! Stay tuned to 3kingsboxing.com as all the details unfold.
By: Tanner Gill
