Murtazaliev vs Kelly: How Briton Josh Kelly overcame hypochondria to earn world title shot

Following his defeat against Avanesan, Kelly spent 16 months away from the ring to recover.

He sought professional help but relied heavily on friends, family, and faith to change his mindset.

“My friends helped, but God helped so much,” Kelly said.

“I talked to some people and eventually found this guy named Steven Green, who is now my friend and mentor.

“I was on a Zoom call with him about ownership and he said he could help me with my mindset about boxing. I didn’t believe it until he had a deep conversation and opened my mind.”

Trained by Adam Booth, Kelly marked his return with a stoppage victory over Peter Kramer and enjoyed success at both domestic and European level.

Victories over current British and Commonwealth super middleweight champion Troy Williamson and light middleweight Commonwealth and British champion Ishmael Davis sent a clear signal of intent.

Now, riding a seven-fight win streak, Kelly has moved onto the world title scene and faces undefeated Russian Martazaliev for the light-middleweight victory at Utilita Arena.

“Boxing training is probably 90% physical and 10% mental, but on fight night the tables turn and I nailed it,” Kelly said.

“I’m so mentally strong now that no one can come close to that and I’m locked in. I not only believe it, but I know it’s true.

“I needed free time to recover and reveal my potential. I feel strong now. I’m not losing as much weight as before and I feel mature.

“If you had asked me then if I would compete for the world title now, I would have said you were crazy.

“It’s about faith, belief and trusting the right people around me.”