Hamburg boxer Peter Kadiru loses WBA heavyweight title fight

Hamburg-based professional boxer Peter Kadiru suffered a defeat in his bid to claim the WBA heavyweight world championship title. The 29-year-old underdog lost to the Russian defending champion Murat Gassiev by technical knockout in Moscow. Kadiru's corner conceded the fight after one minute of the sixth round, signaling their fighter's inability to continue.

The venue for the championship bout was highly contentious, given Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and the international sanctions imposed on the country. Kadiru received the opportunity to fight for the world title on very short notice. This chance arose after the WBA elevated former cruiserweight champion Gassiev to "full" champion status following the relinquishment of titles by boxing star Oleksandr Usyk. This move also led to German boxer Agit Kabayel becoming the WBC world champion.

Kadiru stepped in as a replacement opponent for Gassiev. The originally scheduled challenger, French Olympic champion Tony Yoka, withdrew due to a back injury. Kadiru's agency, Ringside Zone, reportedly initiated contact with Gassiev's management, who agreed to the fight just days later. Kadiru had previously secured the WBA Continental title on May 15 by defeating fellow German boxer Senad Gashi.

Kadiru, who had a notable amateur career including three European championships, a World Championship silver medal, and gold at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics, was once considered one of Germany's greatest heavyweight prospects. As a professional, he now holds a record of 23 wins and two losses.