OLEG "The Big O" MASKAEV

Age: 33 (1969-03-02)
Residence: Staten Island, New York
Record: 22-5, 17 KOs
Height: 6'3"
Reach: 79"
Trainer: Bob Jackson

Former PABA Heavyweight champion. Holds a knockout victory over former World Heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman. A big, strong product of Uzbekistan, Maskaev has a versatile, educated style that allows him to box and slug with equal proficiency. Once an HBO favorite and highly ranked world contender, Maskaev was headed for a shot at Lennox Lewis until he was derailed by first Kirk Johnson (KOBY 4), Lance Whitaker (KOBY 2) and most recently, Corey “T-Rex” Sanders (TKOBY 8). Against both Johnson and Sanders, Maskaev was winning handily until walking into a fight-ending punch. Only other losses came early in his career to former champion Oliver McCall (KOBY 1) and in an HBO-televised fight with David Tua (TKOBY 11).

BEST WIN: On November 6, 1999, Maskaev was paired with soon-to-be heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman. Maskaev was being outboxed until the eighth round, when a booming right hand sent Rahman through the ropes and onto the ringside spectators.

2000 - ANOTHER BEST WIN: On May 20, 2000 in Atlantic City, NJ, he TKO’d fellow television favorite Derrick Jefferson (22-1-1) in the 5th round. Maskaev floored Jefferson in the opening round and injured his ankle. The hobbled Jefferson was finally forced to quit due to the injury in round five, however, Maskaev was solidly in control of the bout.

OTHER IMPRESSIVE WINS - On June 10, 1998 in Moscow, Russia he knocked out previously well-regarded prospect Courage Tshabalala (23-2) in the 9th round.

AMATEUR, PERSONAL BACKGROUND: A native of Zhambul, Uzbekistan, Maskaev is a former two-time Soviet National and Pan-Asian champion. Maskaev began his professional career in Russia. He is looking to begin the long road back to contention by putting together another extended winning streak. The hard-punching heavyweight usually knocks you out or gets knocked out. He has never won a ten-round decision.

STRENGTHS: Dynamite in either hand… digs well to the body... extensive amateur background... able to outbox less mobile opponents

WEAKNESSES: Maskaev walks into knockout punches, especially when tiring. Although he makes for a lot of excitement, even in fights he is way ahead in, he is never safe. His chin is his Achilles heel.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 8 years, 11 months. 27 fights, 157 total rounds.

DISTANCE FIGHTS: 12 rounds - 1 (1-0).11 rounds - 1 (0-1).