HOUSTON, TX (June 30, 2025) – Light heavyweight contender David Morrell Jr. (11-1, 9 KOs) is laser-focused and fight-ready as he prepares to face undefeated Imam Khataev (10-0, 9 KOs), originally from Urus-Martan, Russia, now fighting out of Sydney, Australia, in a highly anticipated 10-round bout at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, New York. The event will be televised live on DAZN PPV.
Morrell has elevated his preparation following the first setback of his professional career. Training under the watchful eye of Ronnie Shields, he has been sharpening his skills and preparing for battle.
“I’m in complete beast mode right now in training camp. Every day is another day toward greatness. I’m running more, hitting harder, and staying focused on everything,” said Morrell. “Losing that fight to Benavidez woke me up. I’m coming to hurt something.”
When asked about his opponent, Morrell didn’t hold back. “I know Khataev is strong and undefeated, but he hasn’t been in there with this version of me. He’s good, yeah, but I’m better. I’m faster, I’m smarter, and I’m coming into this fight with bricks in my fists. He’s gonna find out real quick that I’m coming for his soul.”
Coming off his first professional loss, Morrell is determined to make a statement and remind fans and critics why he was once considered one of the division’s most dangerous threats. “Everybody thinks I’m done or I’m not that guy anymore. Well, they’re gonna see. I’m coming to prove I’m still here, and I’m still scary. This fight is personal for me and my mindset.”
With the spotlight on Louis Armstrong Stadium and millions watching around the world, Morrell sees this bout as the perfect stage to relaunch his climb toward world championship contention. “A win here? Man, it changes everything. It puts me back on the map. All the top guys are gonna have to look my way again. I’m taking over.”
