Filipino boxing talent Virgel Vitor is set for a significant international challenge as he prepares to face the undefeated Russian fighter, Artur Subkhankulov. The bout is scheduled for February 13, 2026, in Russia, marking Vitor's third professional fight outside the Philippines.
Virgel Vitor's International Journey
The 28-year-old Vitor has previous experience fighting abroad, with mixed results. His international debut was a resounding success in Thailand against Campee Phayom. Vitor secured a victory within just two rounds, claiming the WBC Asian Silver super featherweight title.
His next overseas venture took him to Japan for a match against Toshihiro Suzuki. This fight ended in a narrow defeat for the Filipino boxer, who lost by split decision. After a setback in 2024 against Yeerjialahasi Laayibieke, Vitor bounced back strongly last year. He notched two consecutive wins, including a first-round knockout of Rey Ramos and a fourth-round stoppage of Alven Vergara.
Vitor currently holds a professional record of 24 wins and 4 losses, with an impressive 17 of those victories coming by way of knockout.
The Undefeated Russian Challenge: Artur Subkhankulov
Standing in Vitor's way is a formidable and rising force in the lightweight divisions. Artur Subkhankulov, 33, remains undefeated with a perfect 10-0 record, which includes 4 knockouts. Since his professional debut in 2021, he has been on a hot streak, efficiently collecting regional titles.
Subkhankulov's resume is decorated with three World Boxing Association (WBA) regional belts won in just ten fights. He captured the WBA Asia super-featherweight title in 2024 with a unanimous decision win over Wensong Liu. Last year, he continued his ascent by outpointing former amateur standout Ibrahim Balla to win the WBA Oceania lightweight belt. He followed that by defeating Tigran Uzlyan, again by unanimous decision, to seize the WBA Continental Europe lightweight title.
His high-caliber win over Balla, who had an extensive amateur background of 120 fights and World Series of Boxing experience, underscores Subkhankulov's quality. These performances have earned him notable positions in the world rankings: he is currently ranked No. 10 by the IBF and No. 12 by the WBA.
Stakes and Implications for the Filipino Contender
This fight represents a massive opportunity for Virgel Vitor. A victory over a world-rated, undefeated fighter like Subkhankulov on enemy territory would be a career-defining moment. It would immediately catapult him into the world title conversation and significantly boost his global standing.
For Subkhankulov, it is a chance to defend his ranking and perfect record against a seasoned and heavy-handed opponent, further solidifying his claim for a world title shot. The clash of styles—Vitor's knockout power against Subkhankulov's technical, decision-winning prowess—promises an intriguing tactical battle.
As the February 13, 2026 date approaches, Filipino boxing fans will be watching closely, hoping Virgel Vitor can deliver a stunning overseas victory and write a new chapter in his boxing journey.
