Alycia Baumgardner Aims for IBF Title Against Elif Nur Turhan, Eyes Dubois Showdown

Alycia Baumgardner will ascend to the lightweight division to challenge Elif Nur Turhan for the IBF lightweight world title on November 8. This pivotal matchup, part of the MVPW-07 event at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, moves Baumgardner closer to a potential clash with Caroline Dubois. Currently the unified WBO, WBA, and IBF super featherweight world champion, Baumgardner is stepping up five pounds to face the undefeated Turhan. She expressed her determination, stating, "When I set my mind to something, I see it through, and 135 will be no different. This is a super fight, the kind of fight boxing deserves, and the beginning of my next chapter." Turhan mirrored Baumgardner's resolve, emphasizing their shared mentality of victory: "I know I am facing an opponent who steps into the ring solely for victory. We guarantee a fierce, relentless battle where everything is left on the line." If Baumgardner secures a win, she will become a two-weight world champion in the same division as Dubois, who currently holds the WBC and WBO titles. Dubois has persistently called out Baumgardner since defeating Terri Harper to unify her division in April. Despite Baumgardner's championship status, she believes Dubois hasn't yet reached the necessary level for their anticipated fight. However, a victory over Turhan could pave the way for a unification bout with Dubois, where the winner would be one step closer to becoming the undisputed champion. Additionally, the co-main event features Ellie Scotney facing Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight world title, with Scotney aiming for two-weight champion status. Co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions, Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, heralded MVPW-07 as one of the biggest championship events in boxing history, showcasing elite fighters and championship belts on the line.
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-08-25