Daniyar Yeleussinov, 2016 Olympic gold medalist and a top welterweight prospect who wants to become a top contender sooner than later, has parted ways with Matchroom Boxing and is now a free agent.
Yeleussinov (10-0, 6 KO) is 30 years old and with nothing against Matchroom, making a promotional move is probably the right idea. Premier Boxing Champions still control the bulk of the big names at 147 lbs, with Terence Crawford of Top Rank and Golden Boy’s Vergil Ortiz Jr notable exceptions. And while now-former promoter Eddie Hearn had pleaded for Yeleussinov to get a big fight, it didn’t seem that likely under the Matchroom banner, especially now with increased tension between Top Rank and Matchroom.
“I look forward to fighting the better quality fighters and recognized names of the welterweight division in my next few fights,” said Yeleussinov.
“That should lead me to a world title shot. When I was an amateur, my goal was to be the best in the world, and I won the Olympic gold medal. When I turned professional, my goal again was to be the best in the world, and become a world champion. I look forward to signing with a new promoter and they can help on my journey to reach that championship goal.”
Yeleussinov last fought on Nov. 27, smashing former 140 lb titlist Julius Indongo inside of two rounds.