Guests at Gassiev’s Title Fight to Challenge IBF Professionals in Backgammon

July 11, 2026, Moscow —

The IBA PRO 19 International Professional Boxing Tournament at VTB Arena will bring together strength and intellect in one spectacular event. The highlight of the evening will be the first defense of the WBA World Heavyweight Championship title, as Murat "Iron" Gassiev steps into the ring to face German challenger Peter Kadiru.

The tournament will also offer guests another exciting competition — the opportunity to play backgammon. At the initiative of Umar Kremlev, President of the International Boxing Association (IBA) and President of the International Backgammon Federation (IBF), a unique interactive IBF zone will open in the arena foyer (Section B108).

The zone will feature two professional backgammon tables equipped to international tournament standards, including premium boards, doubling cubes, clocks, and mandatory baffle boxes for dice rolling. Visitors will have the chance to experience the atmosphere of a world-class championship. Experienced players can test their skills against strong opponents, while beginners will receive guidance from IBF instructors, learn fundamental strategies, and make their first moves.

"IBA represents the very best that world sport has to offer. It has created a unique ecosystem and hosts some of the most spectacular boxing events on the planet. The fight between Murat Gassiev and Peter Kadiru is a perfect example of that. We want our guests to experience not only the pinnacle of boxing but also the pinnacle of intellectual competition. Like boxing, backgammon builds character, discipline, and strategic thinking. On July 11, two worlds will come together at VTB Arena. It is going to be an unforgettable night," said Umar Kremlev, President of the IBA and the IBF.

The broadcast of the evening's main event is scheduled to begin at approximately 10:00 p.m. Moscow time.