The 2025 WBC Boxing Grand Prix in Riyadh is set to redefine the sport through a series of thrilling bouts held across multiple phases. This prestigious tournament, which kicked off from April 17th to 20th at BLVD City Global Theater in Riyadh, introduces groundbreaking rules designed to elevate excitement and engagement. Among these innovations are an open scoring system after specific rounds, audible alerts signaling round endings, and the elimination of draws. The event aims to spotlight emerging boxers worldwide, providing them with unparalleled visibility. Initial matches focused on the featherweight division, showcasing fierce competition and remarkable talent. Notable victories included Muhamet Qamili's unanimous decision over Ihor Semonchuk, Yoni Valverde’s disciplined triumph against Zhou Runqi, and Bekizizwe Maitse’s impressive performance that handed Rodolfo Puentes his first professional loss.
As part of this landmark event, the opening phase featured intense matchups that tested the limits of each competitor. One standout bout saw Italian fighter Muhamet Qamili face off against Ukraine's Ihor Semonchuk. Despite alternating periods of dominance, Qamili emerged victorious via unanimous decision, improving his record to an impeccable 15-0. Another highlight was French boxer Yoni Valverde's methodical dismantling of China's Zhou Runqi. By maintaining control throughout the match, Valverde advanced confidently into the next stage. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's Ayubkhon Bakhtiyorov demonstrated raw power by knocking down Djamal Hadjab early in their encounter before securing another decisive blow in the second round.
In addition to these performances, Kazakhstan's Zholdas Zhengissov showcased resilience by overcoming a challenging start against Spain's El Yazid Ezzaidani. His relentless pursuit culminated in the tournament's first knockout during the second round. Ghanaian Holy Dorgbetor delivered one of the evening's most emotionally charged moments when he edged out Oleksandr Solomennikov of Ukraine in a closely contested split-decision victory. South Africa's Bekizizwe Maitse also shone brightly, winning five out of six rounds against Colombia's Rodolfo Puentes and handing him his inaugural professional defeat.
American Tyshawn Denson impressed judges with his defensive prowess, earning a comprehensive unanimous decision over Ghana's Enoch Tettey Tetteh. In contrast, Yusuf Adisa narrowly edged past Carlos Andres Arteaga Orona after their initial bout ended in a draw, utilizing the newly implemented Enhanced Scoring System to claim victory. Mexican Hector Munguía Jr., known for his aggressive style, capitalized on Gbadamosi's height advantage to secure a sixth-round knockout. Similarly, Brandon Mosqueda utilized effective combinations and evasive tactics to dominate Sabbar, ultimately achieving victory by knockout in the third round.
Other key matches included American Llamido Japhethlee's spirited effort against United Kingdom's Gullraj Singh Powar, who controlled proceedings with powerful punches en route to victory. Colombian Jhon Sebastian Bolaño Mendoza overcame Jermaine Dervon Hardison's superior reach through active offense, landing impactful combinations that resulted in the latter's first professional loss. Furthermore, reserve fighter Juan Albornoz of Argentina pushed Imán Lee to the brink before conceding a majority decision. Lastly, Mexico's Ángel Sauceda engaged Venezuela's Maikel Ordosgoitti in a grueling power duel, eventually prevailing via unanimous decision.
This historic tournament not only highlights exceptional skill but also reinforces boxing as a global spectacle. Through its innovative approach and commitment to nurturing new talent, the WBC Boxing Grand Prix promises to leave an indelible mark on the sport. Competitors have already begun establishing legacies within this platform, ensuring anticipation remains high for subsequent stages of the competition.