Controversial Light-Heavyweight Bout Proceeds Despite Massive Weight Discrepancy

Khalil Coe misses weight by 7 pounds, but fight against Jesse Hart will still take place

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:54am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting the boxing match between Khalil Coe and Jesse Hart, with the figures and ring broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.The upcoming Coe-Hart fight raises questions about the integrity of boxing and the need for stricter weight regulations to protect fighter safety.Las Vegas Today

Ahead of their highly anticipated light-heavyweight bout, Khalil Coe missed the contracted weight by a staggering 7 pounds, tipping the scales at 182.8 lbs compared to Jesse Hart's 174.6 lbs. Despite the significant weight difference, the fight will still proceed as part of the undercard for the IBF Lightweight World title match between Raymond Muratalla and Andy Cruz.

Why it matters

Coe's failure to make weight raises serious questions about his dedication and professionalism, especially since he was previously touted as a future world champion. The weight discrepancy also puts Coe's safety at risk, leading some to argue the fight should have been canceled on ethical grounds.

The details

The bout, originally scheduled for October 2025, was postponed due to a hand injury sustained by Coe. Now, it's finally happening as part of the Matchroom-promoted event at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, which will be broadcast live on DAZN. As a result of missing weight, Coe will forfeit 30% of his purse to Hart and is no longer eligible to compete for the WBC USA title.

  • The fight was originally scheduled for October 11, 2025 but was postponed due to Coe's hand injury.
  • The rescheduled bout will take place on April 11, 2026 as part of the undercard for the IBF Lightweight World title match.

The players

Khalil Coe

A light-heavyweight boxer who was previously touted as a future world champion, but has now missed weight by a staggering 7 pounds ahead of his grudge match against Jesse Hart.

Jesse Hart

Coe's light-heavyweight opponent, who came in comfortably at the contracted weight of 174.6 lbs. Hart has expressed frustration with Coe's unprofessional behavior and is determined to prove a point in the fight.

Eddie Hearn

The promoter who previously hailed Coe as a future world champion, but now faces questions about Coe's dedication and discipline.

Raymond Muratalla

The boxer who will be fighting for the IBF Lightweight World title on the same card as the Coe vs. Hart bout.

Andy Cruz

Muratalla's opponent in the IBF Lightweight World title fight.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He knew about this 12 weeks ago. He did a 12-week training camp in Las Vegas, Nevada. He did not want to fight. He doesn't want to fight me. First his hand, now his weight.”

— Jesse Hart, Boxer

“I know he ain't got this [heart]. I smell fear.”

— Jesse Hart, Boxer

What’s next

The New Jersey State Athletic Commission will decide whether to allow the fight to proceed despite the significant weight discrepancy.

The takeaway

This controversy highlights the importance of professionalism and fighter safety in boxing. While the weight miss has fueled the rivalry, many argue the commission should prioritize ethics over entertainment and cancel the fight to protect Coe from potential harm.