Akhmadaliev and Espinoza face off before Monaco clash for WBA interim title (video)

Former world champion in the super bantamweight category, Murodjon Akhmadaliev of Uzbekistan, is set to compete for the WBA Interim belt in a high-stakes boxing event scheduled for December 14 in Monaco.

Ahead of the fight, Akhmadaliev took an intense face-off with his opponent, Mexican boxer Ricardo Espinoza Franco. The battle of glances highlighted the growing tension as both fighters prepared for the crucial showdown.

For context, the 30-year-old Akhmadaliev will face the 27-year-old Espinoza, who boasts an impressive professional record. Espinoza has fought in 34 matches, securing 30 victories and 4 losses. Notably, 25 of his wins came by knockout, underscoring his formidable striking power.

A crucial stipulation adds further intrigue to the fight. If Akhmadaliev emerges victorious, he will be required to face Japan's Naoya Inoue, the division's undisputed champion, within 100 days. This raises the stakes significantly for Akhmadaliev as he eyes a return to the top of the weight class.