Andrey Klimov’s Tough Road From Molina Upset to IBF Title Shot
Andrey Klimov reached the IBF super featherweight championship stage on June 13, 2015, when he faced José Pedraza in Birmingham, Alabama. The Russian challenger had already established himself against experienced opposition, including a notable victory over John Molina Jr.
Career highlights
Klimov defeated Molina by majority decision on June 7, 2013, in Shelton, Washington. The result brought him wider attention on an American television card and added an established contender to his list of opponents. Later that year, he shared a ring with Terence Crawford, who won their ten-round meeting by unanimous decision.
His subsequent schedule also included Liam Walsh. By April 2017, Premier Boxing Champions was describing Klimov as a seasoned former title challenger ahead of a matchup with Alejandro Luna. Luna pointed to Klimov’s jab and experience when explaining the challenge he expected.
The championship opportunity
Against Pedraza, Klimov contested the vacant IBF belt at 130 pounds over twelve rounds. Pedraza controlled the contest behind his jab and combinations, winning on cards of 120–108, 120–108 and 119–109.
That bout remains a central milestone in Klimov’s career: a world-title opportunity earned after facing recognizable opponents across the lightweight and super featherweight scene. The Molina victory and the Pedraza challenge illustrate both the openings he created and the level of competition he encountered.
Sources
- Premier Boxing Champions: Alejandro Luna discusses facing Andrey Klimov
- Round By Round Boxing: Pedraza–Klimov result
- BoxingInsider: Klimov defeats John Molina Jr.
Article Tags
Andrey Klimov, Boxing, Combat sports
