Noel Mikaelian: from prospect to champion

For some time, Noel Mikaelian progressed quietly and steadily through the professional boxing ranks.

He was not a fighter built for immediate impact or frenetic exchanges, but rather one of those boxers who construct their careers with precision, consistency, and ring intelligence. While others drew attention, he took care of business and steadily built his résumé.

The turning point came in 2020, when he captured the WBC International cruiserweight title. That achievement marked the beginning of a consolidation phase at 200 pounds. In the years that followed, Mikaelian continued to add titles and credibility, eventually securing the WBC Silver championship and later the Absolute world title, proving that his rise was no coincidence.

On his road to the championship, he defeated Ilunga Makabu by technical knockout, a victory that confirmed his ability to prevail in high-risk fights.

As is often the case in the tougher divisions, his reign was not without setbacks. In 2025, he lost the championship after a demanding contest against Badou Jack, a fight that pushed his physical and mental resources to the limit. Far from representing a decline, that defeat reshaped his focus and motivated him to pursue another opportunity.

That moment of redemption arrived on Saturday, December 13 of this year. Against Badou Jack, Mikaelian delivered a composed and commanding performance, winning by unanimous decision to claim the WBC cruiserweight world title.

It was not a victory built on isolated moments, but on control, tactical discipline, and consistency throughout the fight.

Inside the ring, Mikaelian is a difficult puzzle to solve. He boxes with composure, controls the tempo, and applies constant pressure with a persistent jab that steadily wears down his opponents round after round. His style is not designed for immediate applause, but for gradual attrition and strategic dominance.

Today, Noel Mikaelian is no longer a quiet prospect or an overlooked contender. He is a proven champion, respected inside and outside the ring, and one of the most challenging fighters to face in the cruiserweight division of world boxing.