Imam Khataev was born on August 31, 1994, in Kulary village, Chechen Republic. With over 15 years of experience in amateur boxing, he has established himself as a seasoned competitor on the international stage. Renowned for his relentless “steamroller” style, Imam Khataev seemed destined for the professional ranks.
Amateur Career
Over the course of his illustrious amateur career, Khataev participated in nearly 300 bouts and consistently shown as a member of the Russian national team. He claimed the title of vice-champion three times (2015, 2017, and 2018) before achieving back-to-back Russian championships in the light heavyweight division in 2019 and 2020.
The pinnacle of Khataev’s amateur achievements came at the Tokyo Olympics, where he secured a bronze medal following an electrifying showdown against British standout Ben Whittaker.
Professional Career
In 2021, the pride of Chechnya made his pro debut with a victory in Russia. He followed this up with knockouts in Serbia and Australia in 2022 and 2023, training under coach Anton Kadushin and manager Jim Kambosos.
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In the fall of 2023, Khataev joined Eye of the Tiger Management (EOTTM), where he continued his dominant run, scoring two quick knockouts. In January 2024, he claimed his first title by dismantling Polish champion Michal Ludwiczak to capture the NABF light heavyweight belt.
Khataev’s momentum only grew. In May, he returned to Australia and stopped world contender Ricards Bolotniks in the 6th round during the undercard of the Lomachenko vs. Kambosos mega-event. Then, in September, he delivered another explosive performance by defeating Argentine Olympian Ezequiel Maderna in a bloody 7th-round TKO.
Now boasting a perfect record of 9-0, with all victories coming by knockout, expectations are sky-high for Imam Khataev. Khataev won all of his first ten professional fights, including nine by KO.
David Morrell vs. Imam Khataev | FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS
Notable Fights
He eventually faced David Morrell on July 12, 2025, in New York City. Morrell was considered a major step-up in class for Khataev. A former WBA super-middleweight and light-heavyweight Regular champion.
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Khataev is currently scheduled to face former world-title challenger Adam Deines on December 11th, 2025, at the Lac Leamy Casino in Gatineau, Canada.
Fight Record
| Date | Opponent | Result | Method | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 12, 2025 | David Morrell | Loss | Decision | New York City, USA |
| May, 2025 | Ricards Bolotniks | Win | TKO (6th round) | Australia |
| September, 2024 | Ezequiel Maderna | Win | TKO (7th round) | |
| January 2024 | Michal Ludwiczak | Win | KO |
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