Alberto Puello, Batyr Akhmedov ‘Committed’ To Becoming WBA Champion

There’s one vacant super lightweight belt and two competitors – both of whom said they’re ready for this moment.

Alberto Puello will meet Batyr Akhmedov at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

“I’m very committed to winning this fight for my team and my country,” Puello said.

“I am more than prepared to make the most of this opportunity. My only focus is on earning this victory, becoming world champion and taking on all the challenges that come my way after that.”

Puello climbed rankings in July 2019 after capturing the interim title over Jonathan Alonso, his first career defeat. Puello was also successful in his U.S. debut in December 2021 where he recorded a unanimous decision win against Veshawn Owens.

Puello was originally ordered to fight Josh Taylor, but the Scottish boxer vacated the title in a reported attempt to push for a Jack Catterall rematch.

Akhmedov suffered his first career loss in September 2019 to Mario Barrios, but bounced back and won two of his next fights, including stopping former world champion Argenis Mendez last June.

“I’m excited that I’m finally getting my shot at the world title again,” Akhmedov said.

“I have worked very hard to reach my goal of becoming world champion. This time, I’m going to do everything possible to make sure that I take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Taylor holds two of the division’s belts.