Melikuziev vs. Fulghum: Explosive Super Middleweight Showdown for a World Title Shot!

By Tim Smith - April 30, 2025 - No comments

Friday, May 30, 2025, is about to explode with fireworks as Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (15-1, 10 KOs) and Darius “DFG” Fulghum (14-0, 12 KOs) go head-to-head in a high-stakes 12-round WBA Super Middleweight Title Eliminator at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The event will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN, making it a must-watch for boxing fans across the globe.

This monumental clash isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s about earning a shot at a coveted world title. Both fighters come into this with plenty to prove, and they’ll leave it all in the ring for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Melikuziev: Ready for Redemption and a Title Shot

After a solid career that started with a silver medal in the 2016 Olympics, Bektemir Melikuziev has proven his elite-level skills. Known for his ferocious body punching and smooth technical approach, Melikuziev is looking to make his move toward a world title shot. His journey has already seen him overcome tough competition, with his most recent victory being a split decision over David Stevens in November 2024 at The Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.

“I’m happy to be back in a meaningful fight,” Melikuziev said. “My goal remains the same – the world championship belt, and this fight is for the right to challenge the champion. That’s what I’ve been waiting for.”

Fulghum: Undefeated, Hungry, and Ready to Make His Mark

On the other side, Darius Fulghum is an undefeated, rising star with an explosive knockout ratio (12 KOs in 14 wins). A former National Golden Gloves champion and the No. 1-ranked U.S. heavyweight before transitioning to super middleweight, Fulghum has solidified himself as a dangerous force in the division. The Houston-native turned professional in 2018 and has made a rapid rise with dominant performances, including his most recent fourth-round knockout in February 2025.

“My mentality for this fight is to make a statement that makes me an undeniable force in the super middleweight division,” said Fulghum. “This is an opportunity I don’t take for granted. I’m checking all the boxes, and fans will see the best version of DFG on May 30.”

The Co-Main Event: Rising Star Eric Priest in Action

In the co-main event, undefeated super middleweight Eric Priest (15-0, 8 KOs) will face an opponent to be announced in a 10-round middleweight bout. Priest has already earned attention as a top prospect and looks to build on his impressive victory over Tyler Howard, securing the WBA Continental North America Super Middleweight title. This fight is a big step in his rise to the top.

The Undercard: Rising Stars and Future Champions

The undercard features a host of talented fighters, including 2024 Olympian Joshua “Good” Edwards (1-0, 1 KO), who will make a quick return to the ring after his debut win. Also on the card, Federico Pacheco Jr. (8-0, 6 KOs) will face Calvin Barnett (5-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight bout. The action opens with Cayden Griffiths (4-0, 4 KOs), who will look to continue his knockout streak in a six-round welterweight bout.

Why You Should Watch

  • Melikuziev vs. Fulghum: A high-stakes battle for a WBA Super Middleweight Title shot.

  • Fulghum brings the power, while Melikuziev brings the skill—this is a true showdown of styles.

  • Eric Priest continues to rise and will showcase his skills on the undercard.

  • Rising stars across the undercard, featuring Olympian Joshua Edwards and Federico Pacheco Jr..

Confirmed Fights

Main Event

  • Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev vs. Darius “DFG” Fulghum, 12 rounds, WBA Super Middleweight Title Eliminator

Co-Main Event

  • Eric Priest, 10 rounds, middleweight

Undercard

  • Joshua “Good” Edwards vs. TBA, 6 rounds

  • Federico Pacheco Jr. vs. Calvin Barnett, 6 rounds, super middleweight

  • Cayden Griffiths vs. TBA, 6 rounds, welterweight

Event Info

  • Date: Friday, May 30, 2025

  • Location: The Theater at Virgin Hotels, Las Vegas, Nevada

  • Time: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT / 3:00 AM UK

  • Stream: LIVE on DAZN

  • Tickets: Available now via AXS.com and GoldenBoy.com