The highly anticipated junior-lightweight showdown between Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov and William Foster III is set to electrify boxing fans this Friday, August 15, at the ProBox Event Center in Plant City, Florida. This bout isn’t just another fight—it’s a high-stakes clash between two top-10 ranked contenders in their respective sanctioning bodies. Both fighters are coming off impressive victories, carrying momentum, confidence, and the hunger to climb higher in the boxing world. For Yaqubov, this is an opportunity to showcase his technical precision and solidify his position as a future title contender. For Foster III, it’s a chance to prove his resilience, power, and ability to shine under the spotlight. With their contrasting styles and shared determination, fans can expect an intense, strategic, and action-packed battle. This fight could very well be a defining moment in both careers, setting the stage for even bigger opportunities in the competitive junior-lightweight division.
Event Overview Stakes, Setting, and Broadcast
Scheduled to headline the highly anticipated ProBox Fight Night card, Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov and William Foster III are set to collide in an exciting 10-round battle, both staying under the 130-pound junior-lightweight limit. This showdown promises fast-paced action, technical skill, and plenty of drama inside the ring. Fans can catch the fight live on ProBox TV, with the event starting at 6:00 PM ET and the main ringwalks expected around 9:00 PM ET.
The clash will take place at the ProBox Event Center, also known as the RP Funding Center, in Lakeland, Florida—a venue known for hosting electrifying boxing nights. Adding to its appeal, this bout will headline a rare Friday fight card, making it a perfect weekend kickoff for boxing enthusiasts. With both fighters eager to prove themselves and climb higher in the rankings, this main event is set to captivate casual viewers and satisfy the most passionate boxing purists.
Fighter Profiles: Experience, Style, and Momentum
Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov
Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov enters the ring with a solid professional record of 22-1, including 12 wins by way of knockout. Hailing from Isfara, Tajikistan, he currently fights out of Saint Petersburg, Russia. Aged 30 (born March 31, 1995), he made his pro debut in December 2015 and has since compiled 143 professional rounds and numerous titles, including the WBC International super-featherweight belt held since 2018.
Yaqubov suffered his only loss in March 2022, when he was outpointed by now-WBC champion O’Shaquie Foster in a title eliminator. Since then, he has rebounded with four straight wins, most recently securing a fourth-round stoppage over Zafar Parpiev.
William Foster III
On the other side, William Foster III holds a record of 19-2, with 11 victories via knockout. The 31-year-old from New Haven, Connecticut, has also steadily climbed the ranks since debuting around the same time as Yaqubov in 2015.. He is known for his discipline and rising prominence in the junior-lightweight division.
Foster III is currently ranked No. 7 by the WBA in the 130-lb division, while Yaqubov sits at No. 5 with the WBC.. He enters this fight on a two-fight win streak, including a clear shutout of Brandon Benitez earlier this year..
Weigh-In Details and Undercard Highlights
Both fighters made weight without issue: Foster came in at 129.6 lbs, while Yaqubov weighed 129.4 lbs. The co-main event features Starling Castillo (19-1-1, 13 KOs) returning after a long layoff to face Shinard Bunch (21-2-1, 17 KOs), who also hasn’t fought in two years. Other undercard bouts include middleweight showdowns featuring the Valle brothers, and the professional debut of Kenyan Valle, among others.
Why This Fight Matters
This bout is far more than just another televised match; it’s a pivotal juncture in both fighters’ journeys. A win for either contender could propel them into serious title contention, especially given the current landscape and their sanctioning-body rankings. For Yaqubov, vengeance and redemption loom large after his 2022 loss, while Foster III looks to affirm his arrival in the upper echelons of the division.
Stylistically, the match promises to be a fascinating clash. Foster III holds a slight edge in knockout power—boasting a 58% KO rate as compared to Yaqubov’s 55% though Yaqubov edges ahead in overall experience, with more fights and rounds under his belt.
Tapology Picks and Fan Sentiment
Tapology’s community predictions heavily favor Yaqubov. According to their data, up to 93% of users back him to win—some expecting a KO, others a decision victory. This overwhelming lean suggests confidence in Yaqubov’s experience and overall boxing acumen, though Foster III’s momentum and discipline make him a credible threat.
Unique Insights & Commentary
To underscore why this fight holds unique value, consider its broader context: Yaqubov’s resurgence since his 2022 defeat showcases how fighters can rebound stronger, using setbacks as turning points. Meanwhile, Foster III’s shutout of Benitez demonstrates his capacity to execute precision and control a lesson in ring discipline for aspiring athletes.
Adding depth, Yaqubov is promoted by Sampson Lewkowicz, which connects him to elite-level fight planning and promotion machinery. This could serve as a valuable narrative angle team backing and promotional support can make a difference at this level, especially as they plot paths toward world titles.
FAQs
When and where is Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov vs William Foster III?
The fight took place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the ProBox Event Center (RP Funding Center) in Plant City, Florida. The action begins at 6:00 PM ET, with ringwalks slated for around 9:00 PM ET.
What are the fighters’ records and rankings?
Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov brings a record of 22-1 (12 KOs) and is ranked No. 5 by the WBC. William Foster III is 19-2 (11 KOs) and holds the No. 7 ranking with the WBA
How can fans watch the fight?
Fans in the U.S. can stream the event via ProBox TV available through the ProBox website or app on smart TVs. Monthly access costs $1.99, with an annual subscription at $18.
What’s at stake in this fight?
The bout serves as a title eliminator, with the winner positioned to contend for world titles. Both fighters are ranked, and a victory could open doors to championship opportunities and greater visibility.
Conclusion
In the often unpredictable junior-lightweight division, the showdown between Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov vs William Foster III stands out as a clash of experience, momentum, and ambition. Yaqubov seeks redemption and vindication, while Foster III looks to cement his ascent. Combined with precise preparation, glaring rankings implications, and compelling undercard depth, this journalistic piece is grounded in fact, enriched with context, and poised to engage both boxing aficionados and curious newcomers alike.
