Top Rank Signs Light-Heavyweight Contender Salamov

Canelo Alvarez won the WBO Light-Heavyweight Championship under the DAZN brand. He also recently vacated he title. Bob Arum is looking to get that title back under the Top Rank brand.

The promotion announced the signing of Umar Salamov to a multi-fight deal. At 25, the Russian is ranked as the second contender for the WBO Title.

“Umar is a gentle giant of a young man, an excellent fighter who has only begun to tap his immense potential,” said Arum. “With Kevin Barry in his corner, he is in great hands. The light heavyweight division is on fire, and Umar is ready to add his name to the championship mix.”

Salamov (25-1) is on a six-fight win streak, dating back to late 2017. His last fight was a knockout win over Emmaniel Danso in September. It was his second win via knockout in a row and the 19th of his career. The only loss of his career was against Damien Hooper in July 2017.

“Now approaching the biggest time in my career, I am excited and very pleased to be signing with the world’s top boxing promoter, Mr. Bob Arum and Top Rank,” Salamov said. “I am confident that I now have the right team to take me all the way to a world championship. This opportunity is huge, and I plan on making the most of it.”

The current WBO International Light-Heavyweight Champion, Salamov is hoping for a true world title to hold onto. Managed by Kevin Barry, who has worked with Joseph Parker, Robbie Peden and David Tue, the opportunity may very well be right there for him to take.

“At 25 years old, Salamov is a tremendous talent,” Barry stated. “At 6-foot-3½, he is a huge 175-pounder. His power and unorthodox style make him a difficult and dangerous challenge for any of the top light heavyweights. This is a very proud Chechen from a long line of battle-hardened fighters.”