Former Cruiserweight Champion and 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Vassiliy "The Tiger" Jirov (37-3-1, 31 KOs) is returning to boxing with the intention of regaining his cruiserweight world championship. The popular former champion is currently in training for a proposed September 17 bout at the Woodland Marriott in Woodland Hills, California.

A fan favorite worldwide for his relentless come-forward attack and intense body punching ability, Jirov first made history when he defeated American team captain Antonio Tarver to win the Olympic light heavyweight gold medal in Atlanta in 1996. He also received the prestigious Val Barker Cup for being the best fighter of the games.

It was there that he signed with American powerhouse promoter Top Rank and united with manager Ivaylo Gotzev.

Guided by Gotzev and Top Rank, "The Tiger" Jirov tore through his opposition on his way to taking his first world title in 1999 by stopping "King" Arthur Williams in the seventh round.

The fight, broadcast live on HBO, allowed Jirov to captivate audiences around the world and garnered him high praise.

Over the next five years, Jirov successfully defended four times, and brought credibility to a division that had been largely ignored for many years. After losing his title in an upset decision to James Toney (later voted the 2003 Fight of the Year), Jirov moved up to the heavyweight division where, despite not winning a major title, he clearly left a mark. No one will forget the battle he waged with then number-one contender "Baby" Joe Mesi.

After a few years of stop-and-go activity Jirov has now reunited with Gotzev (they parted ways just prior to the James Toney fight). The pair's record together stands at 32-0 with 27 knockouts.

"I am delighted to be working with Vassiliy again. His exciting, aggressive style is definitely missed in boxing," said Gotzev. "And pending California State Athletic Commission approval, you can see him back in action September 17 at the Woodland Marriott."


The plan, according to Gotzev, is to take some tune-up fights before making an attempt to regain his cruiserweight title. "There is no doubt in my mind that Vassiliy will be unified cruiserweight champion of the world."

The cruiserweight division is currently experiencing an upswing, hosting the likes of Tomas Adamek, David Haye, Ola Afolabi, and many up-and-coming European contenders.

Jirov is training at the 360 Fitness center in Reseda, California with Shadeed Suluki (who trains Gotzev's young fighters including sensational light heavyweight Ismayl Sillakh and middleweight David Tabatadze, both undefeated. "We are going to bring excitement to every fight and there are some great fights to be made at that weight. The Tiger is back!"

His opponent is currently TBA.