25-year-old Tikhonov (13-0, 7 KOs) will face Nikoloz Kokashvili (16-2-1, 6 KOs) of Variani, Georgia, in the eight-round main event of a card being held at the Sports Palace Energy.
Promoter Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions recently signed the promising southpaw to a promotional contract. “Vladimir is currently the number-one ranked super bantamweight in Russia,” said Salita, “but we looking to break him into the world scene. He is talented enough to compete at the top of his division.”
Designated a Sport Master of Russia in his home country, Tikhonov was a distinguished amateur boxer before turning pro in 2008. However, his career has been hampered by inactivity.
“We are going to keep Vladimir busy and sharp as we move him up the ladder,” continued Salita. “The super bantamweight division is one of the hottest in boxing right now with plenty of big fights waiting for him in the coming years. This fight against Kokashvili is the first step.”
