Raymond Muratalla Defends IBF Title Against Robson Conceição August 1

Former WBC champion moves up in class for his first lightweight world-title fight in Las Vegas

Raymond Muratalla will make the first defense of his IBF lightweight title against former world champion Robson Conceição on August 1 in Las Vegas. The bout gives Conceição his first shot at a lightweight world title and a chance to become a two-division champion.

The 12-round title fight was announced Monday and will serve as the co-main event to the vacant WBC lightweight title bout between Lamont Roach Jr. and William Zepeda at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

This will be the first world title fight of Conceição’s career at lightweight.

The 37-year-old Brazilian previously campaigned at super featherweight, where he challenged several top fighters before capturing the WBC title with a victory over O’Shaquie Foster in July 2024. His reign lasted just one fight, as Foster reclaimed the belt with a split-decision victory in their rematch four months later.

Since moving up to lightweight, Conceição has recorded victories over Yonnaiquer Rondon and Helber Rojas, although neither opponent was ranked among the division’s leading contenders. The August 1 showdown with Muratalla will represent a significant step up in competition and an opportunity to become a two-division world champion.

“They said it was impossible when I dreamed of winning an Olympic gold medal,” said Conceição. “They said that when I pursued my first world title. I accomplished both, and it’s no different now.

“I have a lot of respect for Raymond Muratalla, but I’m ready for this challenge. I want to prove that determination, experience, and the heart of a champion can overcome any obstacle.

“On August 1, I will fight for myself, for my family, and for all of Brazil.”

Muratalla enters the bout unbeaten at 24-0 with 17 knockouts. He claimed the interim IBF title with a victory over Zaur Abdullaev before being elevated to full champion following Vasiliy Lomachenko’s retirement.

The California native is coming off the biggest victory of his career, a unanimous decision win over Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz in February.

“After my last fight, the boxing world really got to know who I am,” said Muratalla. “People saw me as the underdog, even though I was the champion, and I showed that I can’t be underestimated.

“Now I’m defending my title against another Olympic gold medalist, and I plan to look even better. I’m focused, I’m ready, and I’m handling business on August 1.”

The event will air in the United States on TNT and truTV and worldwide on DAZN.

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