Vassiliy "The Tiger" Jirov (37-3-1, 31 KOs) is returning to the ring with the hopes of regaining his cruiserweight world championship. Jirov, was a former cruiserweight champion and won 1996 Olympic Gold Medal in 1996. The former champion is currently in training for a proposed September 17 bout at the Woodland Marriott in Woodland Hills, California.
The Tiger’s relentless come-forward attack and intense body punching ability, Jirov began making history when he defeated American team captain Antonio Tarver, winning the Olympic light heavyweight gold medal in Atlanta in 1996. Jirov also received the Val Barker Cup for best fighter of the games.
This is when Jirov signed with manager Ivaylo Gotzev and Top Rank Promotions.
The Tiger" Jirov defeated his opposition as he took his first world title in 1999 by ending "King" Arthur Williams in round two.
Five years later Jirov defended his title four times bringing credibility to a division that was ignored for many years. James Toney later took his title in an upset decision. The fight between Jirov vs. Tony was later voted the 2003 Fight of the Year. Jirov made the decision to moved up to the heavyweight division where he left his mark. His battle with the number-one contender “Baby” Joe Mesi left was engraved in the minds of boxing fans around the world.
Jirov has now reunited with his former manager Gotzev (the two had parted ways right before the James Tony Fight). The pairs record stands at 32-0 with 27 knockouts.
You can see Jirov back in the boxing ring September 17 at the Woodland Marriott."
The cruiserweight division is currently experiencing an upswing, hosting the likes of Tomas Adamek, David Haye, Ola Afolabi, and many up-and-coming European contenders.
Training at the 360 Fitness center in Reseda, California with Shadeed Suluki. An opponent for Jirov has yet to be determined.
