Kadiru (23-2, 13 KOs) accepted the fight on approximately five days’ notice after Tony Yoka withdrew because of injury. The German entered as the WBA Continental heavyweight champion and was receiving his first opportunity to fight for a world title.
Despite giving away several inches in height and roughly 25 pounds, Gassiev immediately took control by walking Kadiru down and forcing exchanges at close range. The challenger attempted to establish his jab and box from the outside, but Gassiev consistently cut off the ring and found openings with compact hooks to the head and body.
Kadiru showed determination by remaining on his feet through sustained punishment, but he was unable to slow the champion’s pressure or land enough meaningful offense to change the momentum. As the rounds progressed, Gassiev’s heavier punches increasingly forced the challenger into a defensive shell.
The finish came in the sixth round. Gassiev trapped Kadiru along the ropes and unloaded a series of combinations that left the challenger badly hurt. Kadiru’s corner responded by throwing a white towel into the ring, prompting the referee to stop the contest and award Gassiev a technical knockout victory.
The bout became a title fight only after Yoka withdrew, giving Kadiru an unexpected opportunity against one of the division’s hardest punchers. Although the German accepted the assignment on short notice, he was unable to capitalize against the more experienced champion fighting before his hometown fans.
The win keeps Gassiev in possession of one of the heavyweight division’s four major world titles at a time when the championship picture remains split among multiple titleholders. With his first defense complete, the 31-year-old Russian can now turn his attention toward higher-ranked contenders as the WBA title picture continues to develop.
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