Following a five-year absence, Kemahl 'The Hitman' Russell returned to the ring three times for a total of eleven rounds in 2023. Despite limited ring time, he claimed the Newcomer-of-the-Year award as a member of the Toronto-based ‘United Boxing Promotions’ stable, further reclaiming his reputation, as he climbs through the middleweight ranks.

As the name of the award suggests, the honour is awarded to the best first-year fighter. To determine the winner, boxers, who have competed during the current year, must first be nominated for the award, then votes are cast by fans, media, and promotional staff. Notwithstanding the other nominees, it was Russell who emerged winner through the 2023 selection process.

The official announcement was made on Thursday, December 28th, by United Boxing Promotion boss Tyler Buxton.

“Kemahl made a big impact in his first year, three fights with three knockouts, the Hitman is a fan favorite," Buxton said.

Russell, 34, has won 16 of 17 fights, scoring 14 knockouts in the process since turning professional in July of 2013. The highly-touted middleweight boxer, has built a reputation as a devastating puncher. For this year, he dominated all three of his fights leaving a succession of opponents on the canvas unable to continue.  

The Hitman’s first saw action in 2023 on April 29, against Argentina’s Marcos Jesus Cornejo (4KO), and then Mexico’s Juan Carlos Raygosa (4KO) on September 9. He closed out his year's campaign with a knockout win over former Mexican Champion Rafael Amarillas Ortiz (3KO) on December 2.

“I am pleased but not surprised that I won the award. I also think that I am deserving of it based on my performances throughout the year,” said Russell.

“I mean what I said and said what I mean, I did exactly what I said I was going to do throughout the year," he added.

Russell has been training with Grant’s MMA, under the watchful eye of trainer and owner Ryan ‘RG’ Grant. Grant shared that the award sets the stage for his charge heading into the New Year.

“Onward and upward from here, he had a monster year, he looked really good getting back into the swing of things after being off for a period of time," Grant noted.

And as it relates to his expectation for Russell in the coming year, Grant has set bit targets.

“The middleweight division is open, so a huge move can be made in 2024 to take the division over," he declared.

Buxton echoed Grant’s sentiment.

“I expect Kemahl to be in the top 15 by the end of 2024."

The expectations from trainer and promoter can be overwhelming for some, but a confident Russell embraces the moment while he is on the cusp of ushering in the next chapter of his career. 

“The ring rust is gone now so every time out, I feel stronger and faster. I moved through the middleweight rankings, made a mark and gained new fans. Next year, will be even more exciting," Russell said.

The Newcomer-of-the-Year award not only recognizes another achievement in the career of Russell, but also sets the stage for even bigger things in the coming year. With anticipation mounting as he climbs through the rankings, Buxton promised that 2024 fight news would be coming soon.