Zaur Dzhavadov was preparing for one of the biggest moments of his career — a highly anticipated title fight against Akram Belmekki at the KOK’127 event on October 11 d. in Riga, Latvia. The clash promised to be one of the highlights of the evening, bringing together two dangerous fighters ready to battle for championship gold. Fans were eagerly waiting to see Dzhavadov test his skills against Belmekki in what was expected to be an explosive showdown. However, just weeks before the event, Dzhavadov suffered an unfortunate injury that forced him to withdraw from the card. “After my last fight, I decided I needed to increase my strength even more, so I started lifting more heavy weights in the gym. Several times a week, I specifically trained with iron, lifting heavy weights. During one of my last workouts at the gym, I was doing deadlifts with a trap bar and injured my back muscles,” Dzhavadov explained.
The news from the doctors was difficult to accept. “First of all, I felt big regret. Because I know a lot of people were looking forward to this fight. My opponent was looking forward to it. But I’ve been in this sport for a long time and I understand that injuries are part of our sport and they happen. I need to be patient, heal the injury, and continue to tone up and prepare for future fights.”
Dzhavadov also addressed his opponent. “Of course, I want to apologize to Akram. I’m sure he trained hard for this fight. He’s a young fighter, but I think he knows that things like this happen in our sport. There are moments beyond our control.” Despite the situation, the fighter remains optimistic about his recovery. “I hope that in a few weeks I will be able to return to training,” he said.
Although he won’t be stepping into the ring himself, Dzhavadov will still be present at the event and is excited about the matchups. “There will be a lot of great fights at this tournament. The showdown between Kristaps Zile and Kristaps Zutis will be very interesting. Rodrigo Mineiro vs. Ragners Dzigurs will definitely be a fiery fight. And of course, the fight between Arturs Skabarnieks and MMA legend Gilbert Yvel will definitely be exciting.”
Finally, he left a message for the fans. “I want to apologize to the fans again. You know how much I love putting on exciting fights, and it’s always been important to me to put on interesting fights that will keep the audience happy. I hope the viewers understand, and I’m very sorry they won’t be able to see my fight this time. Nevertheless, the tournament on October 11th will be incredible. There will be many exciting and thrilling fights, and the spectators should definitely come and watch.”
The full KOK’127 fight card promises plenty of action, with standout bouts like Kristaps Zile vs. Kristaps Zutis, Gilbert Yvel vs. Arturs Skabarnieks, Rodrigo Mineiro vs. Ragners Dzigurs, double title fight- IBF and WBO international welterweight titles- between Karen Chukhadzhian and Joel Mafauad.
Fans can explore the entire lineup at www.kokfights.com.
Tickets for KOK World Series 127 on October 11 d. at Xiaomi Arēna, Riga are available now: KOK World Series’ 127 – 11.10.2025 – Xiaomi Arēna – Biļešu Serviss
