LAS VEGAS – It appears the Muhammad Ali lineage may witness the rise of another professional fighter in the near future.
Biaggio Ali Walsh, grandson of the legendary boxer, has already amassed six amateur MMA fights and is contemplating a transition to the pro circuit following his next match scheduled for November.
On November 23, at the highly anticipated 2023 PFL Championships, Walsh will face off against Joel Galarza Lopez, an undefeated amateur with an impressive three-win record. If Walsh secures the victory in this encounter, it could potentially mark a significant milestone in his fighting family’s legacy, elevating him to become the first professional MMA fighter in his lineage. His family includes his brother Nico Ali Walsh and aunt Laila Ali, both of whom opted to pursue careers in boxing.
During a recent media event held at Xtreme Couture, Ali Walsh expressed his thoughts on the upcoming bout: “Assuming everything goes well in November and I emerge victorious, I will consult with my coach to determine the best course of action. I value his extensive knowledge in the sport as I am still relatively new to it. Rushing into the professional arena is not something I take lightly. However, personally, if you were to ask my opinion, after this next fight, if I win by the grace of God, I believe I will be prepared to turn pro.”
Following a submission loss in his amateur debut, Walsh has experienced an outstanding streak of five consecutive victories by way of stoppage, including four first-round finishes. Walsh initially competed under the PFL banner in November 2022, where he impressively dispatched Tom Graesser in a mere 45 seconds with a powerful right hand. His upcoming clash with Lopez will mark his fifth amateur brawl under the PFL, an organization known for its patient approach in ushering fighters into the professional ranks.
Watch the complete media session featuring Walsh in the above video.
For more details, visit the Biaggio Ali Walsh article on MMA Junkie.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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