French heavyweight boxer Tony Yoka is making his anticipated return to the ring on May 17, 2025, at the Adidas Arena in Paris. Known for his Olympic gold medal win in 2016, Yoka has been absent from competitive boxing since his last fight in September 2024. This upcoming match will feature a significant challenge as he faces Russian boxer Arslan Yallyev, who remains undefeated in his career with a record of 16 wins.
Yoka announced his return on social media, generating buzz among fans eager to see him fight. The 32-year-old Yoka will enter the ring against Yallyev, a 28-year-old boxer from Dagestan, who has carved a name for himself in the heavyweight division since launching his career in April 2018. With a current ranking of 36th globally by Boxrec, Yallyev poses a serious threat, particularly as he has won 10 of his 16 fights by knockout.
This highly-anticipated match will mark Yoka's final fight under his contract with Canal+, ending a partnership that began in 2017. With a professional record of 13 wins and 3 losses, Yoka is keen to reclaim his momentum after suffering three consecutive losses in 2022 and 2023 against notable fighters Martin Bakole, Carlos Takam, and Ryad Merhy. His most recent match was a victory against Lamah Griggs, which Yoka won in two rounds, but the competition against Yallyev promises to be a greater challenge.
Yoka's past three losses, especially against opponents ranked higher than him, left him reeling and made his decision to train in England for a fresh start. There, he found a measure of confidence, clinching victories over Amine Boucetta and Griggs, even if those opponents are not as well-known. Now, facing Yallyev is a decisive moment for him; a win could pave the way for a significant comeback in his boxing career.
Yallyev, who is celebrated for his speed and strength in the ring, achieved his most recent victory by points against German Skobenko on November 30, 2024. His victory in that match adds to the buzz surrounding his matchup with Yoka, as it not only showcases his rising skill within the heavyweight division but illustrates the stakes of the upcoming fight.
The night of May 17 will certainly be pivotal for Yoka, as he attempts to move past the setbacks of the last few years and re-establish himself as a contender within professional boxing. The stakes are higher as he faces an opponent with an impressive record and potential rise in the ranks, while simultaneously battling personal and professional pressures.
The match at Adidas Arena is being watched closely not just by Yoka's supporters but also boxing analysts and fans who see this evening as a potential turning point in Yoka's career. For Yallyev, this fight represents a chance to climb even higher in the rankings and solidify his standing as one of the sport's emerging talents.
As the fight draws nearer, excitement is building within the boxing community, with many eagerly anticipating how this clash will unfold. Will Yoka successfully translate his past victories into future success, or will Yallyev maintain his undefeated streak? The outcome not only matters for both fighters but could also redefine the trajectory of their careers.
This fight is more than just a match; it’s a significant moment in the careers of two dedicated athletes in the dynamic world of boxing. Fans from both camps will be filling the stands at Adidas Arena, adding to the electric atmosphere that spectators can expect that night. It's sure to be one of the highlights of 2025 in the heavyweight boxing scene.
