Arslanbek Makhmudov is gearing up for a rematch against Guido Vianello, a fighter he previously faced in the amateur ranks. The two heavyweights will meet again early Sunday morning, nine years after their World Series of Boxing bout.
Makhmudov, now 35, comes into this fight with three months of preparation following a second-round stoppage of Miljan Rovcanin in May. This contrasts with the grueling pace of the World Series of Boxing circuit, where fighters often faced matches every two weeks.
“It was a challenging time with fights every two weeks,” Makhmudov said. “We traveled from Azerbaijan to Venezuela and then to Italy. It was intense, but a valuable experience.”
Reflecting on their previous encounter, Makhmudov acknowledges the differences since then. “We have both become professionals with more experience. Though it’s not the same as before, I always aim to do my best and win.”
Makhmudov’s win over Rovcanin in Shawinigan, Quebec, was his 18th knockout in 19 victories since turning professional in 2017. This win was a strong comeback after his only loss in seven years, which occurred in December against Agit Kabayel in Riyadh. In that bout, Makhmudov was knocked down three times before the fight was stopped in the fourth round.
He suffered a broken right hand in that match, which required surgery. Makhmudov only discovered the extent of his injury after the fight. “I didn’t realize it was broken in two places,” he said. “I felt no pain during the fight, though I couldn’t punch effectively.”
Vianello (12-2-1, 10 KOs) enters the rematch following a split-decision loss to Efe Ajagba in April. The fight, part of this weekend’s Top Rank card in Quebec City, will be another test for Makhmudov, who now fights out of Montreal.
While Makhmudov refrained from guaranteeing a knockout, he is focused on securing a win. “I never predict a finish, but my goal is always to win decisively,” he said. “Vianello fights with good footwork and a solid jab, so I plan to adjust my strategy to secure the victory.”
