Imam Khataev Plans Early 2026 Return At Light Heavyweight

Khataev, a 2020 Olympic silver medalist, has signaled a willingness to face established names early. Fighters referenced as benchmarks include David Benavidez, Dmitry Bivol, and Artur Beterbiev. His approach is pressure based, with an emphasis on physical exchanges and sustained offense. Comparisons to Beterbiev have centered on his willingness to close distance and invest in body work rather than rely on range control.

Khataev last fought on December 11, stopping Adam Deines in the third round. Deines was dropped twice, once in the opening round and again in the third. The stoppage came after a right hand to the body sent Deines to one knee, followed by a full count from the referee.

The win followed Khataev’s first professional loss, a 10-round split decision to David Morrell on July 12, 2025. Khataev scored a knockdown in the fifth round with a looping right hand, but lost on two scorecards. The decision drew mixed reactions from fans and observers.

Four years into his professional career, Khataev holds an 11-1 record with 10 knockouts. He is ranked No. 6 by the WBC, No. 7 by the IBF, and No. 15 by the WBO at light heavyweight.

Fighters ranked ahead of him include established contenders positioned in mandatory or interim lanes, leaving limited movement without a direct eliminator opportunity.

He is expected to remain active in training while waiting for confirmation on his next fight, with the intention of staying available for late-notice opportunities should openings emerge within the division’s contender schedule.

The timeline for that return will likely depend on sanctioning body movement and availability within the top fifteen during early 2026.