Boxing
Ex-Inoue rival admits uncertainty over future amid superstar's reign
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Murodjon Akhmadaliev has admitted he could move up to featherweight if Naoya Inoue elects to remain one division below.
The Uzbek star fights for the first time since a September loss to 'The Monster' against Hegly Mosqueda on Friday night.
Having lost a wide decision to Inoue, the former unified champion hopes to get back to winning ways on his return to the ring.
But with a desire to add to his former titles, Akhmadaliev acknowledges he could switch tracks if Inoue sticks the course too.
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"I'm comfortable at 122, but open to moving up to 126 for the right opportunity," he told The Ring. "I'm realistic about the situation.
"If Inoue stays, it could take a couple of years to get another shot. [I] don't want to wait. I'm open to chasing titles in another division.
"If he moves up and vacates, then I'll go after the belts at 122. My goals haven't changed. [I want] world titles and the biggest fights available."
Inoue most recently defended his crown against Junto Nakatani and has been linked to a bout with Jesse 'Bam' Rodriguez next.
Pragmatic Akhmadaliev waits on Inoue call
DAZN News correspondent Andrew Steel
Most fighters around the sport's lower divisions would love a crack at Naoya Inoue, and the chance to share the ring with the star.
For Akhmadaliev, one time is enough for the moment, with the Uzbek fighter keen to move on to other pursuits elsewhere.
Alas, with Inoue holding on at super-bantamweight, Akhmadaliev faces a waiting game on the Japanese favourite to decide his next move.
For now, he will bid to see off Mosqueda with minimal fuss, chasing the chance to reassert himself near the top of the pile.
Once that is done, he can consider his next steps - and whether he will need to add a few featherweight pounds to pursue his dreams.
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