Lapin’s Fight and Beleniuk’s Debut: Ukrainian Sports Stars Set to Stun the World

Daniel Lapin vs. Benjamin Mendes Tany

According to Главком: IBF International and WBA Continental titleholder Daniel Lapin is set to step into the ring against France’s Benjamin Mendes Tany on May 23 in Giza, Egypt. This bout is part of a boxing event headlined by two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk facing renowned kickboxer Rico Verhoeven, adding major global appeal to the evening.

Lapin boasts an impressive professional record: 13 fights, 13 wins, with five coming by knockout. His last appearance was in March, when he defeated Latvia’s Kristaps Bulmeisters in the outskirts of Kyiv. His opponent, 28-year-old Mendes Tany, has fought 10 times, winning nine, including two knockouts. In November of last year, Mendes Tany defeated fellow countryman Sadok Sebki.

Zhan Beleniuk’s MMA Debut

Meanwhile, Olympic champion Zhan Beleniuk has secured an opponent for his first-ever mixed martial arts fight. Scheduled for July 11 at Kyiv’s Palace of Sports, Beleniuk will face Haim Gozali. Notably, Beleniuk was recently named to Ukraine’s national Greco-Roman wrestling team for 2026, underscoring his continued commitment to his original sport.

The Lapin vs. Mendes Tany clash carries significant weight for both fighters, as a win could dramatically shift their careers and rankings. Lapin, the reigning champion, aims to defend his title and extend his undefeated streak, while Mendes Tany seeks to climb to new heights by defeating a seasoned opponent. The Giza boxing night also draws attention thanks to Usyk’s participation, elevating the event’s importance for fight fans worldwide.

As the excitement builds for Lapin's upcoming title defense, another Ukrainian sports star is set to make headlines in a different arena. Olympic champion Zhan Beleniuk is preparing for his first mixed martial arts bout on July 11, where he will take on Haim Gozali. This transition highlights the diverse talents emerging from Ukraine's sports scene, promising thrilling moments for fans of both boxing and MMA.