MONTREAL, July 14, 2025 — Eye of the Tiger’s rising star, Imam Khataev (10-1, 9 KOs), came up short in one of the most controversial decisions in recent memory this past Saturday, as he faced former world champion David Morrell (12-1, 9 KOs) at Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York.
In a 10-round war, Morrell hit the canvas for the first time in his career. Khataev also threw 32 more power punches than the Cuban boxer. Yet, the judges handed in scorecards that gave Morrell the win by split decision — a verdict that has left much of the boxing world scratching its head.
“One thing’s for sure: David Morrell got his Christmas gift early, because that was a terrible decision—not just for Imam Khataev, but for the integrity of the sport. Maybe we should invite Morrell to our turf, at the Centre Vidéotron, for a rematch,” said Camille Estephan, president of EOTTM.
“I’m not really sure what fight the judges were watching […]. Imam Khataev seemed to control the pace, land the cleaner shots, and deliver the heavier punches,” noted Mike Coppinger, journalist for The Ring Magazine.
“David Morrell went through hell to get a decision win I’m not sure he truly deserved it—this was exactly the kind of fire-fight Imam Khataev wanted,” added Sergio Mora, former world champion and DAZN analyst.
“Imam Khataev: a new star is born in the light heavyweight division,” declared Mike Grisham, play-by-play commentator for DAZN.
Click (HERE) to watch the full fight.
