kazakhstan news

WBA Asia title fight for Saken Bibosynov gets new date

Saken Bibosynov will fight for the WBA Asia belt on May 23 in Bishkek against Indonesia’s Suria Dharma.

A new date has been set for Saken Bibosynov’s next shot at a major boxing title, and it shifts attention to Bishkek on May 23.

The two-time amateur world champion and Olympic bronze medalist from Kazakhstan will compete for the WBA Asia title, with the bout scheduled in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

His opponent is Suria Dharma from Indonesia, who enters the fight unbeaten with a record of 4 wins and 4 knockouts.

This WBA Asia title fight matters not just because it’s a regional championship, but because for many fighters these moments define how their careers look from here.

The fight was originally planned for April 17, but Misryoum reports that it was moved after a Japanese promotion decision tied to developments in the Middle East.

For Bibosynov, a potential title would be a landmark achievement in professional boxing and could mark his first belt at that level.

Ahead of the bout, he said it will be his first title fight, adding that he has been preparing for a long time and wants to be fully ready to win and satisfy fans, while also describing Dharma as a strong opponent after watching footage of his matches.

Misryoum also notes that Bibosynov is among the most decorated active boxers in Kazakhstan. His record includes world championship gold in 2021 and 2025, an Olympic bronze from Tokyo in 2020, and three medals at the Asian Championships from 2021 and 2022.

Meanwhile, the sport continues to draw broader interest as Misryoum sees attention turning to other high-profile combat matchups and title pursuits beyond the WBA Asia title scene.

In the end, the rescheduled date gives both camps a clearer runway, and for Bibosynov it is another chance to convert years of achievements into a new professional milestone.