By Alexander Pavlov
Light heavyweight contender Denis Grachev (12-0-1, 8KOs) hopes to raise his international profile after last week's big upset knockout of previously undefeated rising star Ismayl Sillakh (17-1, 14KOs). Grachev was losing on the offical cards, but turned things around with his power punches to stop Sillakh in the eight round.
Grachev, born and raised in Russia, has spent his entire pro career in the United States, but he hopes the win over Sillakh has gained him a bigger following in Russia.
"The victory greatly boosted my rating. I do not rule out the possibility that many boxing experts will call this a lucky victory, and I'm ready to fight with [other] serious contenders. I hope that now I have added fans in Russia. I'd love to win on home soil," Grachev said.
Alexander Pavlov covers boxing for Sportbox.ru
