Radzhab Yusupovich Butaev Bio
Radzhab Yusupovich Butaev is a Russian professional boxer born on December 15, 1993, in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia. Known by his ring name “The Python,” he has competed primarily in the welterweight division since turning professional in 2016. Butaev held the WBA (Regular) welterweight title from October 2021 to April 2022 and previously secured the WBC-NABF super-welterweight title in 2016.
Early Life and Background
Radzhab Butaev was born and raised in Khasavyurt, a city in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. Details about his family background and early education are not widely documented. However, his early exposure to boxing led him to develop his skills as an amateur, where he notably won the light-welterweight gold medal at the 2013 Kazan Summer Universiade, representing Russia.
Path to Boxing
Butaev’s amateur career was marked by significant achievements, including his success at the 2013 Universiade and winning six bouts in the 2015 World Series of Boxing. These accomplishments paved the way for his transition to professional boxing in 2016. His early career demonstrated promise as he quickly established himself within the welterweight and light-middleweight divisions.
Radzhab Butaev Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Radzhab Butaev made his professional debut on March 25, 2016, against Robert Alexander Seyam, winning by a first-round knockout. Over the next two years, he built an undefeated record of 10–0, with the majority of his victories coming by knockout. Notable early fights include a third-round technical knockout win over Lanardo Tyner in March 2019 and a unanimous decision victory against Silverio Ortiz in May 2019.
WBA Regular Welterweight Breakthrough (2019–2022)
On September 30, 2019, Butaev fought Alexander Besputin for the vacant WBA Regular and EBP welterweight titles. Although Butaev initially lost by unanimous decision, the result was later overturned to a no contest after Besputin tested positive for a banned substance. This decision reinstated Butaev’s standing in the division.
In October 2021, Butaev achieved a career-defining victory by defeating reigning WBA Regular welterweight champion Jamal James via technical knockout in the ninth round. This win earned him the WBA (Regular) welterweight title, marking the peak of his professional career to date.
Professional Career Highlights (2016–Present)
Throughout his professional tenure, Butaev has demonstrated a powerful orthodox fighting style, standing 179 cm tall with a reach of 183 cm. His aggressive approach and knockout power have resulted in 15 wins, 12 by knockout, out of 17 total fights. His only official loss was overturned to a no contest, underscoring his resilience and competitive edge in the ring.
Driving Style and Strengths
Butaev fights from an orthodox stance, utilizing his reach and power effectively in the welterweight division. His strategy often focuses on aggressive pressure and body shots, as evidenced by his knockout of Terry Chatwood with a left hook to the body. His ability to maintain composure and capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses has been a hallmark of his fighting style.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Butaev’s career include winning the WBC-NABF super-welterweight title in 2016 and capturing the WBA (Regular) welterweight title in 2021. The overturning of his loss to Besputin to a no contest due to doping violations was a significant moment, preserving his reputation and career trajectory.
Radzhab Butaev Career Wins
Radzhab Butaev has amassed a professional record of 15 wins, 12 by knockout, with a single loss that was later changed to a no contest. His victories span multiple regional and international titles, highlighting his status as a formidable competitor in the welterweight division.
Professional Boxing Highlights
Butaev’s first professional win came by knockout in his debut fight in 2016. His most notable victory was the technical knockout of Jamal James in 2021 to claim the WBA (Regular) welterweight title. He has consistently performed well in championship bouts and remains a respected figure in professional boxing.
Other Wins & Performances
In addition to his major title wins, Butaev secured the WBC-NABF super-welterweight title in 2016 and has maintained an undefeated streak in regional competitions. His amateur success, including the 2013 Universiade gold medal, laid a strong foundation for his professional achievements.
Radzhab Butaev Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
There is limited public information regarding Radzhab Butaev’s family background or any sporting lineage. His career has primarily been defined by his individual accomplishments in boxing.
Personal Life
Details about Butaev’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. He maintains a professional focus on his boxing career.
2025 Season Performance
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Radzhab Butaev is expected to continue competing in the welterweight division. His experience as a former WBA (Regular) champion positions him as a contender for future title opportunities. Maintaining strong team dynamics and refining his fighting strategy will be crucial for his success in upcoming bouts.