Tasman Fighters plan to rebuild Andrei Mikhailovich as an attraction in both Australia and his native New Zealand after he became the latest addition to their growing stable of fighters.
Following successive defeats the 27 year old will move up to super middleweight under Tasman’s guidance, and while his agreement with his new promoter – BoxingScene understands that a three-fight contract has been signed – came too late for him to feature on the undercard of Jai Opetaia-Huseyin Cinkara at the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre on December 6, Tasman are already planning for the new year.
The Russia-born New Zealander lost for the first time when challenging the IBF and WBA middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly in October 2024, when he was eventually stopped in the ninth round in Sydney, Australia on an evening when his resilience regardless impressed.
He then lost his following fight, in April in nearby Newcastle, to the little-known Blake Wells via split decision at the conclusion of six competitive rounds. It was the second of those defeats that contributed to his plans to move up in weight.
“Andrei will make his debut under our banner in 2026,” the Australia-based Tasman Fighters’ Mick Francis told BoxingScene. “The exact date to be determined. We will look to keep him busy in both Australia and in New Zealand. I was impressed with his toughness against Janibek. It was a huge step up for him and he will only benefit from that exposure moving forward.
“We are excited to add Andrei to our stable. He’s our first signing from New Zealand and he’s always in exciting fights. We know he’s got a lot of potential but we are aware that he needs a little bit of rebuilding too. His future lies in the super-middleweight division.
“Tasman Fighters are always on the lookout for exciting boxers that can entertain the crowds and Mikhailovich fits the bill. We look forward to seeing what he can offer in 2026.”