Photo: Vincent Ethier – Osleys Iglesias
Osleys Iglesias is the perfect example of modern Cuban boxing—a blend of finesse, technique, rhythm, and surgical precision… with a killer instinct like I’ve rarely seen.
In late 2019, following the World Cup in Cologne, Iglesias left the Cuban team and settled in Germany. Since then, he’s transitioned into the professional ranks. He’s been fighting primarily in Montreal since signing in 2023 with the internationally ambitious Montreal-based firm Eye of the Tiger. Now the IBO super middleweight champion, he’s on a blazing streak, with his last four fights all ending in knockouts.
Photo: Vincent Ethier – Osleys Iglesias
But his next challenge is on another level. On September 4 in Montreal, Iglesias will face Russian fighter Vladimir Shishkin in a crucial bout—an IBF eliminator, with the winner becoming the mandatory challenger for the world title. We’re talking about a direct shot at the IBF belt—the one still held by Canelo. So this is far more than just a prestige fight: it’s a gateway to the top of the division and a mountain of money!
This won’t be a “walk in the park,” as the saying goes. Shishkin is a tough, disciplined fighter who has already proven he can hold his own among the world’s best. His only loss—controversial—came in Germany against another Cuban, William Scull.
Photo: Vincent Ethier – Osleys Iglesias
At Marc Ramsay’s gym, we know Shishkin well; he’s already been to Montreal to spar with Artur Beterbiev during preparations for his rematch with Bivol. He’s good, he moves well. That’s why he was chosen to mimic Bivol’s style. But let’s be honest—without headgear and with smaller gloves, I see the Cuban coming out on top. Osleys Iglesias is simply on another level.
Why do I believe in him? Because he has everything it takes to win this kind of fight. He controls the pace, reads the ring well, and adapts smartly. Plus, he’s a monster—he strikes with precision, but his fists are loaded with dynamite, ready to explode at any moment. His southpaw style is smooth, unpredictable, and he knows how to neutralize orthodox fighters like Shishkin. While one sticks to repetitive patterns, the other breaks them, sidesteps them, and lands punches that matter—punches that hurt.
Photo: Vincent Ethier – Osleys Iglesias
On my end, I also want to highlight the work done behind the scenes to make this clash happen! As I write this, I truly believe Iglesias will come out victorious. In fact, I don’t just think he’ll win—I think he’ll put on a masterclass. This is the kind of moment where he can truly show he belongs among the world’s elite. I’m expecting a clear-cut victory, possibly even before the final bell. And after that? Onward to big-money fights—the dream of every boxer who’s left behind family and friends.
I hope you don’t wait too long to grab your tickets. If this fight is happening at the Casino de Montréal, they’re bound to sell out fast!
