"Now the matter has become personal."
Indian boxer Neeraj Goyat defeated Russia’s Mark Urvanov at Shamo Boxing 111 in Moscow, in a bout overshadowed by a pre-fight altercation during the face-off.
Going into the fight, Goyat had a professional record of 18 wins and four defeats.
His opponent was more experienced, with a 26-5 record.
As per combat sports customs, fighters face off before the fight.
Wearing a turban, Goyat faced off with Urvanov but things quickly grew heated when they pressed their heads against each other.
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The Russian boxer then slapped Goyat, sparking chaotic scenes as both teams rushed to keep the men separated.
Goyat declared: “I’m going to kill you in the ring. I’m going to kill you.”
Goyat later took to Instagram and wrote: “Now the matter has become personal.”
In the comments section, fans wished Goyat luck.
However, others were sceptical of the incident, believing the slap was a scripted moment to build up the fight.
Nevertheless, when it came to fight night on June 18, Neeraj Goyat put on a mesmerising display as he stood toe-to-toe with his opponent.
From the outset, Goyat put pressure on Urvanov and kept him on the defensive by letting punch combinations fly.
Urvanov was on the back foot throughout the fight as Goyat mixed up his punches to the head and body.
As the fight continued, Urvanov enjoyed moments, especially when he stood his ground and fired punches back.
At one point, Urvanov caught Goyat with an uppercut as the Indian fighter came in.
But the punch did not deter Neeraj Goyat as the Indian fighter bit down on his gumshield and threw punches, hoping to land the knockout.
The fight went the distance and Goyat was awarded the decision.
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Goyat shared clips of his fight and wrote on Instagram:
“Entered as the underdog, left as the King of Moscow.”
Fans congratulated Goyat, especially after the pre-fight drama.
The result shifted focus back to the sporting outcome, though discussion around the pre-fight incident continues to dominate post-fight reaction.
For now, Goyat is enjoying the victory but it won’t be long before he is back in the gym training for his next fight.
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