Another all-Ukrainian matchup, and once again, it’s a contrast of styles. Tsotne Roghava is a heavyset Super Heavyweight, a former kickboxer, and a highly experienced fighter. His strengths lie in constant pressure, body-head combinations, and an aggressive approach.

Vitalii Stalchenko is a trained, technically sharp boxer. In his previous bout, he gave up nearly 20 centimeters in height but still outboxed his opponent through skill and ring IQ. Roghava will not have an easy task.

Stalchenko is 25, while Roghava is 32 — one of the oldest and most experienced competitors in the Grand Prix, especially considering his achievements in other combat sports.

However, in terms of professional boxing, Roghava’s opposition hasn’t been vastly stronger than Stalchenko’s. The main difference is that Roghava has exclusively fought heavyweights, while Stalchenko has competed both at cruiserweight and heavyweight.

Roghava won his first Grand Prix bout with ease — a TKO 2 over Lewis Clark without facing real resistance. Stalchenko, in contrast, had to go the distance, throwing over 300 punches and maintaining constant movement. That bout was a valuable experience ahead of this next challenge, where engaging in a slugfest would be unwise.

This will be Stalchenko’s third fight of the year — he’s already won both by stoppage and decision. For Roghava, it’s his second outing of 2025. That keeps pace with his high-volume 2024, where he entered the ring seven times.

On paper, Tsotne should hold the edge — he’s larger, stronger, and has shown more physical dominance. Still, that isn’t guaranteed. Stalchenko has real pop in his punches — even his previous “giant” opponent felt the sting.

Both men are durable. Roghava relies on a tight guard and solid body defense. Stalchenko is mobile, quick on his feet, and tough to hit clean. Neither man is easy to crack.

This will be the second time both fighters compete in Saudi Arabia. Roghava has broader international experience — having fought in the U.S., France, and Germany. However, that’s unlikely to play a decisive role in this bout.

In his last fight, Roghava’s pace and dominance hinted at title ambitions. He’s slowed down in 2025 due to the Grand Prix format — a tournament win or final appearance could be more rewarding than multiple yearly bouts. As one of the division’s favorites, he’ll look to win with authority.

Stalchenko, however, is not to be underestimated. Technically sound and mentally composed, he thrives as the underdog. His victory over a towering opponent gave him a major confidence boost. That mental edge might be just what he needs to shake up the bracket once again.