Makhmutov Will Be in Chakhiev's Corner for Haapoja Bout

By Alexey Sukachev

A familiar figure will supervise the cornerman job in Rakhim Chakhkiev’s next fight. The WBC #1 rated Russian, who is now 17-1, with 13 KOs, and will compete for the vacant WBC Silver cruiserweight title on March 15 in Moscow against Finnish fighter Juho Haapoja (20-4-1, 13 KOs), is now being guided by Alexander Makhmutov.

Makhmutov was a two-time European, Russian, PABA and WBC CISBB flyweight champion in 90’s and in early 00’s, getting wins over such notables as David Guerrault and Jason Booth. He twice challenged for a world title, losing on points to Saen Sor Plonchit in a bid for WBA title in 1996, and the being stopped in ten by Omar Andres Narvaez back in November 2003. He ended his career in July 2004 at 38 with a close loss to future champion Brahim Asloum. His final pro record is 42-8-1, with 28 KOs. Makhmutov was also a stellar amateur and represented the USSR during 1988 Seoul Olympics.