Boxing

I am the political refugee and Olympic protestor fighting for heavyweight gold

DAZN Staff

Universum Boxing

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Thursday sees heavyweights Mourad Aliev and Davide Brito clash for the WBC International Silver Heavyweight title in a fight in Hamburg in Germany.

Broadcast live on DAZN, DAZN News learns a little more about Aliev, a southpaw fighter who goes by the nickname 'White Wolf.'

Political refugee

Mourad Aliev’s journey to professional boxing is as much a story of resilience outside the ring as it is inside.

Born in in 1995, Aliev fled to France with his family as political refugees when he was still a child.

The move was driven by unrest in his parents’ homeland, Azerbaijan, which had experienced political and economic turmoil.

Settling in France, Aliev and his family embraced their new home, but the struggles of starting over shaped the young fighter’s determination and work ethic.

Boxing became a way for Aliev to channel his energy as he carved a path to success first in the amateur and then the professional arenas.

Heritage

Aliev's father was also a boxer, and he played a significant role in inspiring his son’s love for the sport, instilling a discipline and passion for boxing in the young Mourad.

Mourad’s Azerbaijani roots remain a key part of his identity, and he often speaks proudly of his heritage, which influences his fighting style — a blend of technical precision and raw determination.

Despite growing up in France, Aliev has embraced the cultural traditions of Azerbaijan, further fuelling his drive to represent his dual heritage on the global stage.

Olympic drama

Aliev made headlines at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he represented France in the super heavyweight division.

His Olympic journey ended in controversy as during the quarter-final match against Britain’s Frazer Clarke, Aliev was disqualified for what the referee deemed intentional headbutts, a decision Aliev protested furiously.

The ring supervisor ruled the referee had erred but said it was impossible to overturn the result. Aliev sat on the ring apron for nearly an hour in protest, refusing to leave.

While the ruling stood, the dramatic display highlighted Aliev’s fiery personality and unrelenting drive for justice, earning him admiration from fans and fellow athletes.

Turning professional and current record

Aliev transitioned to the professional ranks in 2021, seeking to channel his Olympic disappointment into a successful career.

Fighting as a southpaw with a powerful jab and strong defensive skills, he quickly began making waves in the heavyweight division.

Nicknamed the 'White Wolf', Aliev boasts a current record of 7 wins, 0 losses, with 5 wins by knockout.

His ability to control fights with precision and power has earned him a reputation as a rising star in the division.

Thursday’s bout against Davide Brito for the WBC International Silver Heavyweight title represents his biggest test yet, and a victory could propel him further into the heavyweight spotlight.

Mourad Aliev’s journey is a testament to perseverance and ambition. With roots in both France and Azerbaijan and a fighting spirit that refuses to be silenced, the 'White Wolf' is a name to watch as he continues his ascent in the heavyweight division.

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