Upon arriving at Westfield’s Shepherd’s Bush for his pre-fight weigh-in, Derek Chisora didn't appreciate the humorous greeting from comedian Troy Hawke. Before his scheduled fight against Gerald Washington at the O2 Arena in London, Chisora was visibly irritated when Hawke teased him with descriptors like 'adorable' and likened him to a 'menacing tablecloth.'

“You look divine, a one man efficacious fun fair, I love it. Couldn’t love it harder.”

Troy Hawke, who rose to internet fame with his humorous interviews during Manchester City's 2022/2023 pre-season American tour, tried his comedic antics on Chisora. However, Chisora didn't seem to share the amusement that Manchester City players once did. He sternly warned Hawke after the comedian continued with his playful remarks, telling him to refrain from calling him “adorable.”

“Tell me I’m adorable again, and I’ll f*** you up.”

The interaction took a comedic turn when Hawke made a witty comment about Chisora's outfit, comparing his red and white ensemble to a picnic blanket. The public found this jest quite entertaining, with many praising Hawke's audacity to jest with a professional boxer of Chisora's stature.

“Dangerous Looking Tablecloth.”

While Chisora wasn't amused, other famous faces like Anthony Joshua and Eddie Hearn seemed to enjoy Hawke's humorous approach. Later at the weigh-in, Chisora clocked in at 17.9 stone, which is 14 lbs more than his opponent, Gerald Washington. The British boxer, known as Del Boy, is making a comeback to the ring after a significant pause following his loss to Tyson Fury. Prior to that setback, Chisora had managed a victory over Kubrat Pulev but had suffered three consecutive defeats. Tonight's match, which features Chisora and Washington, is part of the undercard for the much-anticipated face-off between Anthony Joshua and Robert Helenius. A win for Chisora might pave the way for him to make one last attempt at a world title.

Frank Warren, who manages WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, recently shared his thoughts on Anthony Joshua during an episode of William Hill’s podcast, Up Front with Simon Jordan. Warren expressed doubt in Joshua's current form, suggesting he's vulnerable to losing against any top-tier opponent right now. This weekend, Joshua is set to fight Robert Helenius, after his initial match against Dillian Whyte was canceled. Whyte's participation was halted after questionable results emerged from his drug test with VADA. Were Warren in charge of Joshua's matches, he'd pit him against Fury without hesitation. However, it appears Joshua has his sights set on a bout with ex-WBC champion Deontay Wilder, targeting a January date. Sharing his candid views, Warren stated, that If he managed Joshua, he'd have arranged a face-off with Fury without a doubt. He suggested that even after Joshua's bout with Oleksandr Usyk, he would've pushed for a match with Fury since Joshua didn't physically suffer much. Although Warren hinted at a potential psychological impact from that loss, he believes Joshua's confidence has been waning for some time. He further questioned Joshua's future match-ups by saying, If he’s steering clear of a rematch with Usyk, who holds a majority of the titles, and isn’t aiming for a match with the WBC titleholder, which is Tyson Fury, then what’s his game plan? Is he anticipating improving significantly to challenge these fighters? That's the narrative being presented, but I'm not buying it.

“If I was Anthony Joshua’s promoter I’d make him fight Tyson Fury,” Warren said to William Hill. “I even would’ve put him in against Fury two months after he fought Oleksandr Usyk, he didn’t take a beating in that fight. It may have been a psychologically damaging outcome for Joshua, but he has been psychologically gone for a couple of years now. “You wouldn’t particularly want to see Joshua in the ring against Usyk again, so if he’s not going to fight Usyk, who is the man with most of the belts, and he doesn’t want to fight the holder of the WBC belt which is Tyson Fury, then what does he want to do? Does he think he’s going to get any better to be able to take these guys on? That’s what they’re trying to sell, and they’re selling bullsh!t.”

Meanwhile, Fury is prepping for an October 28 match where he'll face ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia.

Former heavyweight titleholder Anthony Joshua is gearing up for a Joshua vs Helenius this Saturday, where he'll face off against Robert Helenius at London's O2 Arena. Helenius steps into the ring after Dillian Whyte, the original contender, was disqualified from the bout due to testing positive for prohibited substances. Interestingly, just the previous week, Helenius notched a victory and even postponed a family trip to seize this sudden opportunity in London. A win for Joshua might pave the way for a high-profile bout with ex-WBC champion, Deontay Wilder. It's worth noting that Wilder defeated Helenius in a single round last October. People will inevitably draw parallels between Joshua's and Wilder's performances against Helenius. With determination, Joshua remarked that he can't afford to falter. The pressure is healthy. I need to give it my all and emerge victorious. While comparisons are inevitable, Joshua vs Helenius bout is unique. It's not about what Wilder did or what anyone else did. It's about Joshua and Helenius confrontation in the ring. Given the high stakes, Joshua is keenly aware of the challenge posed by Helenius. Underestimating Helenius would be a mistake. He's all in for this. With nothing to lose, he’s bound to give his best. While it promises to be an engaging match, my aim is to knock him out as early as possible. He should be more concerned about me, just as I remain focused on my strategy, shared Joshua.

“I can’t fail. That’s good pressure. Fight hard and win. There’re always going to be comparisons, but this is my fight with Helenius. Not Wilder’s fight, or anyone else’s fight. It’s just me and him. “It’s the wrong mindset with Helenius. He is going to roll the dice. What’s he got to lose? It’s going to be a good fight but I want to take him out in round one if I can. I need to take him out. Helenius has got to worry about me, and I’ve got to worry about myself.”

In his subsequent partnership with coach Derrick James, Joshua is keen on putting up a stronger show than in his previous match. After two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, the British luminary made a comeback last April, clinching a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Jermaine Franklin.

While a lucrative bout with Deontay Wilder might be on the horizon for Anthony Joshua, he can't overlook the challenge presented by the sudden substitute, Robert Helenius, for Joshua vs Helenius bout, this Saturday night. Yet, another fighter on the undercard at the O2 Arena has a different take. He suggests Joshua should aim for a swift conclusion to the Joshua vs Helenius bout. In a recent chat with Matchroom Boxing, Derek Chisora voiced that Joshua will face criticism if he doesn't dominate Helenius within the initial rounds. He hoped that Joshua catches wind of this. If he doesn't secure a knockout within the first three rounds, it'll raise eyebrows. He should aim to finish this in the early rounds, letting everyone head home earlier. Chisora further emphasized, He shouldn’t be using this match for practice. He should swiftly finish it. In his bout with Franklin, he was more explorative, but now the audience wants assertiveness.

“Listen, I hope ‘AJ’ sees this. If he doesn’t knock this guy out in three rounds, it’s going to be embarrassing. He needs to knock this guy out in one, two or three. So we can have an early night and go home.” “I don’t want him to try and learn or anything. Go in there and put this guy to sleep. With Franklin he was learning and getting his shots off.” “The public need that from him. He doesn’t need it, the fans need it.”

Joshua was set to have a rematch with his well-known competitor, Dillian Whyte. However, due to discrepancies in Whyte's VADA test results, he had to step back. Fortunately for the fans, Helenius stepped in on short notice, ensuring the event continues, and providing Joshua with another opportunity to work with his new coach, Derrick James. It's interesting to note that 'The Nordic Nightmare', Helenius, recently had a casual bout in Finland. However, his most notable recent match was a loss to Wilder in October 2022, where he was defeated in the first round.

Two-time heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, recently opened up about the physical toll of his training camp as he gears up for Joshua vs Helenius showdown this weekend. Previously, Dillian Whyte, who was supposed to fight Joshua, couldn't pass a VADA test. This left Matchroom Boxing and Eddie Hearn in a rush to find another heavyweight contender to keep the event alive. Helenius, who interestingly was practicing his boxing in a castle in Finland when Whyte's test results came out, eagerly filled the vacancy. Helenius hopes to mirror Andy Ruiz Jr's shocking win over Joshua in 2019, where Ruiz was a last-minute substitute. Discussing his current state, Joshua shared with Antoine Speaks about feeling the wear and tear of his preparation for the 29th bout of his career. He stated that it feels like I'm worn out and feel every bit of the rigorous training, but that just means I'm ready to give it my all in the ring. He further emphasized the importance of his victory by saying that the end goal is to have my hand lifted in triumph. We're constantly chasing goals and as a piece of advice, budding athletes should always keep their eyes on the present challenge. He also talked about his last minute opponent changing experience, I've had experience with last-minute changes in opponents. This is my third time facing such a situation. But my primary focus remains – securing a win.

“I feel tired, battered and bruised and I feel that I train hard which means I can fight hard.” “My hand being raised is the most important thing, rather than looking at anything else. There’s always a carrot that’s being dangled in front of us, but it’s been like that forever and I think that young athletes should always focus on what they have in front of them. Like myself, I’m a young athlete and a veteran as well now, I’ve been around late replacements, this is the third time this has happened, I just need to get my hand raised, get in there and do the job.”

The much-anticipated Joshua vs Helenius bout is scheduled to be held at the O2 Arena this Saturday, August 12. The event will also host three additional heavyweight battles.

As the Joshua vs Helenius bout, Anthony Joshua has been introspective, revisiting some past defeats in his boxing journey. The most memorable among these was his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia the previous year. Although many believed Joshua showed a stronger performance in this rematch, he couldn't reclaim the heavyweight world championship title from Usyk. During a session with DAZN Boxing, when asked about his most painful defeat, Joshua candidly expressed his disappointment with his performance in the rematch against Usyk, labeling it as weak. He shared that performance against Usyk in our second bout wasn't up to the mark. I never saw myself losing. Boxing is my life, my all. Discussing it even now is emotional. In this sport, it's all about the wins. There are no consolation prizes.

"Usyk 2 was a weak performance from me. I wasn’t supposed to lose in my head. I give my life to this game, I give everything. Even talking about it now makes me choke up a bit. When you put everything into something and it’s not easy. The only thing we get credit for is winning. There’s no silver medal in boxing."

British boxing enthusiasts eagerly await Joshua's upcoming Joshua vs Helenius fight, set to take place at the O2 Arena in London. Initially, Joshua was slated to go up against his long-standing rival, Dillian Whyte. However, due to an unexpected result in Whyte's VADA test, he had to pull out. Fortunately, Matchroom Promotions swiftly arranged for Helenius to step in, ensuring that the event continues as planned. This Joshua vs Helenius match offers Joshua another opportunity to showcase his skills, this time trained by Derrick James. Should Joshua prevail this Saturday, there's strong speculation that a much-anticipated fight with the formidable American boxer, Deontay Wilder, might be on the cards for January next year.

Terence Crawford appears to have changed his stance on a potential bout with 135-lb secondary champion Gervonta Davis. He now seems willing to face Davis, but only if Davis is prepared to move up 12 lbs to the 147 weight class. Some argue that if Crawford had been more open to negotiation earlier, he might have secured more lucrative matches before retiring. While many believe a face-off with Canelo Alvarez at 168 or other fighters like David Benavidez, David Morrell Jr., and Caleb Plant would be appealing, Crawford's recent demands suggest he believes he's the primary draw in boxing. This is evidenced by his apparent refusal to meet Davis at a catchweight between 135 and 147, implying he sees himself as the dominant figure in such a match-up. Furthermore, Crawford's suggestion to face Mexican boxing icon Canelo Alvarez at a 158-lb catchweight, well below Canelo's regular 168-lb, raises eyebrows. Some think Crawford's negotiation strategy is reminiscent of Andy Ruiz Jr.'s, who has been criticized for his unreasonable match demands.

“No knock to Tank, but there are definitely levels. If he thinks he’s going knock Terence Crawford out, he has another thing coming. I’d stay at 147 lbs for him; that’s a big money fight. But nobody’s going give me credit. Tank’s like 5’5,” he’s a little guy,” said Terence Crawford to the BreakfastClubAM about his willingness to fight Gervonta Davis if he comes up twelve lbs to 147, without being given a catchweight.

Addressing the buzz, Crawford mentioned in an interview with BreakfastClubAM that if Davis believes he can defeat him, he's mistaken. Crawford emphasized that he's willing to maintain his 147 lbs weight for such a bout, dismissing Davis's stature by pointing out his height. Following his win over Errol Spence Jr., some critics feel Crawford's self-perception may have shifted. While a rematch with Spence seems likely due to potential contractual obligations, many are skeptical about Crawford landing high-profile fights with Jermell Charlo, Canelo, or Davis. Some observers predict that Crawford might end up facing opponents like Brian Mendoza, Sebastian Fundora, or Erickson Lubin instead.

Derek Chisora has consistently remained unafraid to voice his unfiltered opinions, and this week was no different as he allegedly disclosed the substantial sum of money that Tyson Fury is expected to earn for his controversial Fury vs Ngannou bout. The boxing community had been more inclined to witness WBC and linear heavyweight champion Fury go up against Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk, competing for all four major world title belts. Even Ngannou empathizes with the collective frustration stemming from this situation. After negotiations faltered earlier this year, Fury pivoted to a highly profitable Fury vs Ngannou match against former UFC champion Ngannou. In the meantime, Usyk is slated to defend his WBA, WBO, and IBF titles against British contender Daniel Dubois in Poland on August 26. Chisora, who himself suffered a loss to the Gypsy King by a 10th-round stoppage at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in December of last year, shared his thoughts on the criticism Fury has faced for taking the Fury vs Ngannou fight in an interview with FightHub TV. Chisora mocked by syaing they don't know how much he [Fury] is getting paid that is why they are unable to keep their mouth shut. He said:

"They don't know how much Tyson's getting paid, that's why they criticize him."

Chisora being Chisora then revealed the exact amount of pay that Fury is getting paid for Fury vs Ngannou, he said:

"He's earning $50 million."

The amount is undeniably staggering and not the first instance of Fury stepping away from boxing for a lucrative opportunity. He participated in the WWE Crown Jewel event in 2019, securing a victory over Braun Strowman via count-out. Fury has expressed a desire to return to wrestling at some point in the future because it's easy to get paid there with minimum damage chances. Fans are undoubtedly hopeful that this won't delay the most awaited boxing bouts against heavyweight giants opponents like Anthony Joshua or Usyk.

Yesterday, Eddie Hearn visited the Limehouse Boxing Gym. He talked to FTTV about his visit and called it "soul-cleansing day".  When asked about what it means to help the community at the Limehouse, he answered:

"It was a soul-cleansing day. Firstly, on a business level, boxing has been good to us, and it feels right to invest in the community and grassroots boxing. Secondly, on a personal level, there's immense joy in seeing kids move in a positive direction. With two kids of my own, one attending a boxing club, I've observed firsthand how it enhances their confidence, physical and mental health, and instills values like discipline and respect." It's more than just winning championships; it's about fostering positivity and health."

During the interview with FTTV, he further talked about AJ, mentioning lots of career opportunities in world of boxing.

"AJ mentioned years ago the numerous opportunities in boxing — not just being a fighter but also roles like trainer, promoter, manager, lawyer, media, photographer, and even security. The community's involvement in boxing extends beyond just the matches. It's about providing avenues for learning, growth, and personal development."

When asked about the upcoming weekend Joshua vs Helenius fight in the FTTV interview, He replied:

"There's a palpable nervousness. We've been here before — on the cusp of the Wilder fight — only to face a last-minute replacement due to a failed drug test. However, this time, the hope is that experience will guide our reactions differently."

He then credited Joshua for stepping up and taking this replacement fight by cutting his purse just so undercard fighters got payed for their hard work during the whole long training camp.

"Anthony Joshua, deserves immense credit. He took a hit on the pay but was insistent on performing. It's not just about him; it's also about the undercard fighters, many of whom have invested significantly in their training."

He also mentioned George Littleton in the FTTV interview as a promising young talent and before ending the FTTV interview, he talked about hoping Joshua win the fight so that he can make the most awaited Joshua vs Wilder fight.

"A notable mention was George Littleton, an emerging talent who has shown immense promise early in his career. His pairing with Kevin Mitchell is promising, with many expecting Mitchell to be an outstanding trainer. With AJ headlining this non-pay-per-view event, there's an expectation for a significant show, potentially one of the best. However, the financial dynamics have shifted significantly, affecting everyone involved, from the promoters to the fighters. The aim now is to look forward to the show, hoping for a performance that would elevate AJ's status further and make the awaited Wilder fight even more tantalizing."

Watch the Full Interview here:

Eddie Hearn, the promoter of former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, has expressed that the possibility of a rematch between Joshua and Dillian Whyte seems unlikely to ever happen. In 2015, Joshua defeated Whyte by knockout in the seventh round. The scheduled rematch, set to take place this Saturday at London's O2 Arena, had to be canceled due to "adverse findings" in Whyte's drug testing conducted by VADA. These findings were revealed by Hearn through social media last Saturday. As a result, Whyte has been replaced by Robert Helenius for the upcoming fight. In an interview with IFL TV, Hearn disclosed that Whyte tested positive for a performance-enhancing drug but couldn't provide specific details due to legal constraints from Whyte's team. When asked if the rematch might happen in the future, Hearn confirmed that the chances were slim. Hearn explained that handling such a situation involves a lengthy process, citing the case of Conor Benn and his positive drug tests. He emphasized that at the age of 35, it might be challenging for Whyte to navigate this process successfully. Hearn expressed his surprise at the situation, given Whyte's previous meticulous approach to his training. He acknowledged that while people want to believe in those who test positive, it's a matter that needs to be addressed seriously.

"Yeah, I think so. I don't know what Dillian is gonna do or how he's gonna go about this situation - but it's a huge, huge fight on his hands. We've been a year, over a year, in process with Conor Benn [and his positive drug tests]. He's now been reinstated in the WBC rankings, he's had his suspension lifted and cleared by UKAD and we're just coming out the other side of it.. you know, 12 or 13 months on," Hearn explained to Boxing With Chris Mannix. "You can imagine that Dillian Whyte has to go through a similar process with a different set of results and analysis that we've seen. And at that age [of 35], you know, is that a process that [Whyte] can come through the other side of. "We wish him all the best. And again, I was surprised. You always believe and you want to believe in those people [who test positive]. It's not something that I would expect from him, knowing the meticulous way that he goes about his work and how careful he is after previous incidences that he was exonerated for, but you also can't ignore it and it has to be dealt with."

This incident marks the third drug testing controversy in Whyte's career. He faced a two-year ban in 2012 due to a positive drug test and had another positive test in 2019, although he was later cleared of those charges by UKAD.

Derek Chisora, with a record of 33 wins, 13 losses, and 23 knockouts, aims to make a comeback this Saturday when he faces off against Gerald Washington in a ten-round bout at London's O2 Arena. This match is set to be an appetizer before the main event where Anthony Joshua takes on Robert Helenius. In Chisora's most recent bout in December 2022, he suffered a defeat from Tyson Fury, the WBC world champion. However, earlier in the same year, Chisora had a notable victory over Kubrat Pulev, clinching a split decision in their second face-off. For Chisora, a setback against Washington, holding a record of 20 wins, 5 losses, 1 draw, and 13 knockouts, might hint at a close to his boxing chapter. Yet, Chisora remains upbeat. He draws parallels between his love for each of his fights and his love for his two children - unwavering and equal. He acknowledges Washington's strength, hinting he may opt for a strategy to keep distance. Regardless, Chisora is resolute, emphasizing that while he respects Washington outside the ring, once they're in it, he's prepared to give it his all.

"They are all big fights for me, all the fights are my babies, from the first fight to when I have my last fight, I love them all. I got two kids and I love them the same way, I don’t love one better than the other and it’s the same with my fights," Chisora said. "I know what Gerald is going to bring, he’ll put his Usain Bolt shoes on and he’s going to run, but that’s OK, we’re going to chase him, find him and mess him up. I won’t lie, he’s my friend, but when I get in the ring, I’ll eat this guy up. "All fights you have to win, sometimes it’s not your day; man makes plans and God laughs at him. I can say I’m going to KO him in three rounds and it goes the 12. I wanted to win all the fights I’ve lost."

Washington's recent track hasn't been smooth either, facing defeat in three of his last four fights. But in 2019, he managed to secure a knockout win against Helenius, the same boxer set for the main event against Joshua. This upcoming match with Chisora will be Washington's first since January 2022.

An individual who expressed interest in replacing Dillian Whyte on short notice to face Anthony Joshua at London's O2 Arena has asserted that Joshua is facing mental challenges. This situation isn't unfamiliar to Joshua, as he's previously encountered opponent changes just days before a fight. For instance, Kubrat Pulev withdrew due to an injury in 2018, and Jarrell Miller faced multiple failed drug tests before Joshua's US debut in 2019. In a similar instance, Andy Ruiz Jr. stepped in on a prior occasion, resulting in a disastrous outcome for Joshua as he lost his titles before regaining them in a rematch. Considering this history, Joshua's team has been cautious in selecting a replacement, and Mahmoud Charr believes he was overlooked due to this careful consideration. Charr, who was once the WBA regular world heavyweight champion, had a fight canceled due to a failed drug test in 2018, and he was subsequently stripped of his title in 2021 due to inactivity. He has faced losses against opponents like Vitali Klitschko, Alexander Povetkin, and Mairis Briedis. Charr disclosed in an interview with Seconds Out that he had offered to step in for this weekend's fight, proposing the same purse as Dillian Whyte's. He expressed confidence in his capabilities and mentioned that he's a more substantial opponent than Whyte. However, Matchroom, Joshua's promoter, appeared to be seeking an easier opponent, according to Charr.

“I told him, listen, give me the same purse bid you offered to Dillian Whyte, I will fight. Who’s Dillian Whyte? I was the last WBA champion, I never lost. I was ready. I am bigger than Dillian Whyte.”

Charr implied that Joshua might not be willing to face him due to his belief that Joshua is mentally struggling. Despite his confidence in his abilities, it's clear that Charr will not get the opportunity to prove his theory. Instead, Robert Helenius will be the one stepping in to fight Joshua at the O2 Arena.

“They’re looking for an easy opponent. It’s not about money, trust me. I think Joshua is not ready to fight me, that’s the problem. If he is a real man he would say yes I will take Charr. I know one punch on his skin and I will break his chin. He’s not strong, he knows he’s mentally broken.”

Robert Helenius is new opponent of Anthony Joshua for Joshua vs Helenius bout. He is confident he can make waves in the heavyweight division by causing an upset against Anthony Joshua (25-3, 22 KOs) this upcoming Saturday. A loss for Joshua could derail his scheduled bout with Deontay Wilder, slated for January in Saudi Arabia. However, promoter Eddie Hearn reveals that negotiations with Agit Kabayel fell through due to his high financial demands. If Helenius manage to knock out Joshua in Joshua vs Helenius showdown, Hearn might regret not securing Kabayel. Helenius steps in with just one week's notice to replace Dillian Whyte as Joshua's opponent in front of 20,000 fans at London's O2 Arena. Despite his limited preparation for Joshua's fighting style, Helenius remains confident about their twelve-round clash, which will be aired on DAZN. While Joshua boasts superior hand speed and an impressive amateur background, most boxing enthusiasts believe these attributes will heavily influence the match. Helenius' recent performance saw him defeating Mika Mielonen (6-1, 6 KOs) in Finland, albeit against an inexperienced opponent. He demonstrated a deliberate approach, focusing on power shots rather than jabs as he moved forward.

“That’s my plan, and that’s why I’m here.” “This means everything because I’ve been chasing world champion for fifteen years. I’ve not gotten there. I’ve had some injuries here and there. I’ve gotten big fights. In 2009, I knocked out Samuel Peter, Lamon Brewster, and Siarhei Liakhovich, but I’ve had a bad injury and have been long away.” “I’ve been in this game for a long time, and I think this is my golden ticket. Derek Chisora is going to be surprised. I’m going to beat Anthony Joshua on Saturday night.”

You can overlook Chisora’s predictions because Joshua is his friend, so he’s obviously biased. However, common sense would tell you that this is Joshua’s fight to lose.

“He’s a good guy, and he has his heart in the right place, and I have much respect for him. The fight didn’t go well for me. I’d been training for that fight for one year, but this is boxing, and this stuff happens. “I hope to redeem myself and show my worth. It’s going to be a really, really good fight. I’ve been training really hard. It’s going to be fireworks and glorious.”

Former super middleweight champion, Carl Froch, has expressed his strong belief that heavyweight contender Dillian Whyte should face a ban if found guilty in connection to his recent positive drug test. The news broke on Saturday that Whyte, 35 years old, was withdrawn from his scheduled rematch with Anthony Joshua following an adverse drug test result reported by VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association). Whyte took to social media on the same day of the announcement to proclaim his innocence regarding the matter. However, this is not the first time he has faced drug testing controversies. In 2012, he served a two-year ban after testing positive for banned substances, and he was involved in a lengthy legal process to clear his name in connection to a drug test administered by UKAD for his 2019 bout with Oscar Rivas. Carl Froch, speaking on his YouTube channel, expressed his frustration with the recurrent drug testing headlines in boxing and called for harsher punishments for repeat offenders. He asserted that if Whyte is found guilty and has been cheating, he should be banned and face the end of his career. Froch, like many fans, is growing increasingly angry with the lack of severe consequences for high-profile fighters who test positive for banned substances.

“I don’t know what now for Dillian Whyte. We are in a position where he is 35 years old and he has failed a drug test. “This is going to look terrible for him and what does the future hold for him? He needs to clear his name but that could take six months. Dillian Whyte must be devastated but if he has been cheating then I am glad he has been found out and he should be punished and banned and this should be the end of his career. But let’s wait, we can’t point the finger, we need to wait and see because of the Conor Benn situation.”

Froch also referenced welterweight star Conor Benn's recent positive tests for banned substances in 2022, leading to a hearing with the National Anti-Doping Panel. Although Benn was eventually cleared to fight, UKAD and the British Boxing Board of Control may appeal the ruling. Carl Froch strongly believes that fighters who test positive for banned substances need to face significant punishments and bans to preserve the integrity of the sport. He hopes that harsher penalties will deter athletes from cheating and protect the reputation of boxing.

“It is not good enough and I am glad they are getting found out. If they are cheating they need to be found out, they need to be punished, they need to get banned. If you get done twice then it’s a lifetime ban and a massive fine, get out because you are a disgrace to the sport."

In a dramatic Paul vs Diaz  showdown, Paul had boldly predicted a fifth-round knockout victory over his experienced opponent. As the fight progressed, it seemed like Paul's prediction might come true when he caught Diaz with a powerful temple shot, causing him to drop in the fifth round. Diaz was clearly hurt, and Paul saw an opportunity to finish the fight early. However, he decided to be cautious and conserve his energy to avoid overextending himself and potentially gassing out later in the match. Despite the knockdown and the pressure he applied, Diaz displayed incredible resilience and weathered the storm. The Paul vs Diaz fight continued for ten rounds, and when the final bell rang, Paul emerged as the winner, securing a unanimous decision victory. Reflecting on the bout, Paul explained that his motor was running hot during the fifth round as he delivered a series of hard punches to Diaz. However, Diaz remained on his feet, demonstrating his toughness and determination. Paul didn't want to risk burning out and giving Diaz an opportunity to turn the fight around, so he opted for a more patient approach while still seeking the knockout.

“My motor was running hot and I was punching him hard and hard and hard, and he wasn’t going down. He was standing there. So I didn’t want to burn out and let him catch a win and come back with something. So I was being patient, being smart, and was looking for the kill. But at the end of the day, he withstood a bunch of big, big, big punches. "I don’t know how he survived the first round, but he’s a dog and I walked the dog. For sure [he could feel my power], I could see it the whole fight. In the first round, I seen his eyes light up and he was like, ‘OK, they talk about this kid’s power, but when you feel it, it’s different.”

According to Paul, Diaz could certainly feel his power throughout the Paul vs Diaz fight, especially in the first round when his punches seemed to surprise the MMA veteran. Diaz's trademark antics and trash-talking were also on full display during the match, adding an extra layer of excitement and intensity to the encounter. The two fighters engaged in verbal exchanges throughout the Paul vs Diaz bout, creating an electric atmosphere inside the ring. Paul recalled how they communicated with each other during the fight, with Diaz delivering words that were not fit for repetition. Despite the heated exchanges, Paul found the experience enjoyable and mentioned that it was one of his most memorable fights yet.

“We were talking to each other the whole fight. He was saying words that I can’t repeat, but I was like, ‘Where’s all that talk now? Gotcha! Shut up!’ It was fun. “When you’re in there with another dog, you can sense it and it just makes the sport more fun. This fight was probably the most memorable yet.”

The Paul vs Diaz clash showcased the passion and intensity that both fighters brought to the ring. For Paul, the victory over an MMA veteran like Diaz served as a significant accomplishment in his burgeoning boxing career. The fight provided thrilling moments and a glimpse of the potential for future matchups that could further elevate the sport's popularity.

Mike Tyson, the legendary former world heavyweight champion, recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming Usyk vs Dubois  fight between British heavyweight hopeful Daniel Dubois and Ukrainian champion Oleksandr Usyk. Tyson believes that the greatest fighters are the ones who face tough challenges and opponents from all walks of life, but he admitted that he has not personally watched Daniel Dubois in action.

“The greatest fighters fight everybody.”

When asked about his prediction for the Usyk vs Dubois fight, Tyson stated that he would stick with the champion, Usyk, as he hasn't seen Dubois fight before. Many others also favor Usyk in this bout, believing that Dubois only has a "puncher's chance" against the experienced champion.

“I never saw Dubois fight. I’m going to stick with the champion. [Usyk]”

Despite being just 25 years old, Dubois is considered a seasoned fighter in the heavyweight division compared to Tyson's early achievements when he won his first world title at the age of 20 after 27 professional fights. Usyk, who is now 36 years old, is hoping for a victory in this Usyk vs Dubois fight. There are hopes that if he wins, negotiations can take place for a potential showdown between Usyk and WBC champion Tyson Fury, aiming to create the first undisputed heavyweight fight in over two decades. However, Fury has his own challenge ahead in the form of a bout against MMA star Francis Ngannou, and it's worth noting that Tyson has been appointed as one of Ngannou's trainers for the match in Riyadh, scheduled for October. The potential outcome of the Usyk vs Dubois fight carries significant implications for the future of the heavyweight division. Should Usyk emerge victorious, the hope is that negotiations can be initiated for a historic showdown between Usyk and the reigning WBC champion, Tyson Fury. The boxing world eagerly anticipates the possibility of an undisputed heavyweight title fight, which would mark the first time in over two decades that one fighter would hold all four major belts in the division. However, Tyson Fury faces his own tough challenge before such a bout can become a reality. He is set to take on MMA superstar Francis Ngannou, and interestingly, Tyson himself has been officially appointed as one of Ngannou's trainers for this highly-anticipated crossover match scheduled in Riyadh for October. This unique collaboration has added an intriguing subplot to the heavyweight landscape and garnered significant attention from both boxing and MMA enthusiasts.

The boxing world is in a whirlwind as Matchroom Boxing, the promoters of Anthony Joshua, are on a hurried quest to find potential replacements for his August 12 match after Dillian Whyte, originally scheduled to be his opponent, was disqualified from the bout. Whyte's disqualification came about as a result of a failed pre-fight drug test administered by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA). The promoters are now considering promoting a heavyweight already slated for the undercard to the main event. However, there's no shortage of other contenders vying for the opportunity to take on Joshua, a renowned powerhouse from Watford. The top three potential replacements who could realistically substitute for Whyte in the impending showdown. To clarify, neither Derek Chisora nor Gerald Washington are part of this compilation, as it's widely acknowledged that they don't have the requisite capability to challenge Joshua in the ring.

Demsey McKean

Among the potential replacements, Demsey McKean appears to be a promising choice for Joshua. McKean is already lined up to face Filip Hrgovic in the co-main event. While Hrgovic would make for an exciting match against Joshua, the chances of Matchroom agreeing to such a risk at short notice are slim. It's particularly unlikely given the potential loss of a high-stakes match with Deontay Wilder later in the year if things go south. While McKean is no easy adversary and is yet to face defeat as a professional, Joshua would still be the favored contender.

Andy Ruiz Jr

In an unexpected turn of events, Andy Ruiz Jr has proposed himself as a potential replacement for Whyte. The Mexican-American boxer stunned audiences when he beat Joshua in June 2019 after stepping in for Jarrell Miller, who, like Whyte, failed a pre-fight drug test. Joshua managed to defeat Ruiz Jr in a rematch six months later and even hinted at a third match. Given the current circumstances, this might be the perfect moment for a trilogy. Ruiz Jr, through his social media channels, appealed to Hearn and Joshua, suggesting that he could be the new replacement and expressing his readiness for a third match.

Filip Hrgovic

Filip Hrgovic is also another potential replacement option for Joshua. He's currently the number one contender for the IBF and defeating him would position Joshua to challenge the victor of the Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois match. Hrgovic has previously been vocal about his thoughts on Joshua, and this could be his opportunity to substantiate his claims in the ring. If this match were to take place, it would undoubtedly delight dedicated boxing fans. However, it also carries significant risk for Joshua.

Former world champion Andy Ruiz Jr has stepped up with a proposal to take on British boxer Anthony Joshua following an abrupt disruption in Joshua's fighting schedule over the weekend. Joshua had originally been slated to compete against a competitor known as the 'Brixton Body Snatcher,' Dillian Whyte. However, plans were derailed when a surprise drug test outcome led to Whyte's disqualification from the match. This unexpected turn of events left Joshua's team in a bind as they found themselves in urgent need of an opponent for Joshua to fight against. In the midst of this turmoil, Ruiz Jr has come forward to offer a potential solution. Using social media as his platform, he directly addressed Joshua and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, on Instagram. His post read:

“Eddie Hearn, Joshua, I believe I can be the replacement you're looking for – again! Let's go another round. Let's complete the trilogy. Let’s make this happen.”

The backdrop to Ruiz's challenge lies in the past encounters between the two boxers. In the summer of 2019, Ruiz Jr gave Joshua the first defeat of his career. This match was met with widespread astonishment as the Mexican boxer not only bested Joshua on points but also claimed the world title belts, bringing them back to North America in a stunning upset. Yet Joshua was not to be deterred by this setback. In a highly-anticipated rematch, Joshua showcased his resilience and determination. He turned in a focused performance and successfully regained all of his belts, proving to all his critics that he was still a formidable force in the boxing world. These belts, however, would later be lost to Oleksandr Usyk. In the aftermath of these bouts, Ruiz Jr, who was noticeably heavier during the first two fights, has undergone a significant physical transformation. He has shed a considerable amount of weight and presents a leaner figure now. With this physical overhaul, Ruiz Jr is now eagerly setting his sights on a potential trilogy match against the British boxer. This proposed bout has added a new layer of intrigue and anticipation to the unfolding drama in the boxing world.

Paul vs Diaz rivalry could see a sequel, but this time in a different sport. Diaz has agreed to Paul's proposed Paul vs Diaz rematch offer of $10 million, provided it takes place within the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and is co-promoted by Diaz's organization, Real Fight Inc. The YouTube celebrity-turned-boxer Paul had an impressive outing against Diaz, clinching a clear decision victory over ten rounds in their bout at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Although Diaz showed perseverance in the later rounds, it was insufficient to topple 'The Problem Child' with the judges scoring the fight 97-92, 98-91, and 98-91 in Paul's favor. Before their initial faceoff in the ring, Paul suggested an MMA rematch against Diaz, which Diaz indicated would require more than a $10 million purse. Following their boxing encounter, Paul reiterated his $10 million proposal, and Diaz accepted, given that it's a co-promotion with the PFL and his company. Paul lauded his team and expressed his eagerness for the Paul vs Diaz rematch in the MMA realm, stating, "I won one, now it's your chance in home territory of MMA." He further highlighted Diaz's toughness, a quality he's known for, but observed that in the realm of boxing, toughness alone is not enough.

"All credit to my team and I want to run it back in MMA, $10million PFL," that’s the offer. Let’s run it back in MMA to make it fair. I won one, now it's your chance in home territory of MMA. He’s real tough, that’s what he’s known for but tough in this sport doesn’t work. I knocked him and won basically every round, I had him hurt in the first round and he kept on coming.

Diaz responded to Paul's proposal with readiness, expressing disappointment in his own performance but demonstrating his willingness to fight anyone. He joked about his MMA moves during the boxing match, mentioning a guillotine choke in the ninth round, and suggesting he "won that battle."

"Let's do it," Diaz replied to Paul's offer. "We're going to have to co-promote with Real Fight Inc. He's big and he's tough, I wish I could have done better things but some s***, it didn't go the way I wanted it to. I should have trained better and done better things but it’s all good. He won this one but i'll fight anyone, I don't give a f***. "I wasn't trying to but I had the single leg [takedown] in the first round and the choke in the ninth, so I won that battle. He’s tough and he’s big, I think he’s doing a great job.” "I'm glad I had a worthy opponent, someone who has done something out of fighting and also made a big name for themselves inside of fighting too. That's what I like, I can go out there against somebody who everyone thinks is going to whip my a** when I beg to differ. So we can definitely come and get that back."

Diaz appreciated having a formidable opponent in Paul, recognizing his accomplishments both in and out of the fighting world. He expressed interest in facing someone who is generally expected to defeat him, stating he "begs to differ." With the prospect of Paul vs Diaz MMA rematch, Diaz is eager to redeem himself.

In the aftermath of Nate Diaz's defeat in Saturday's Paul vs Diaz boxing match, his brother Nick Diaz voiced an interest in possibly continuing the Diaz vs. Paul narrative. For the first time in over a year, Nick Diaz spoke publicly about his future fighting aspirations. Beyond showing support for his brother, he indicated that his appearance at the American Airlines Center in Dallas on Saturday also served to position himself for potential future matches, possibly against Jake Paul or Logan Paul. Diaz expressed confidence during the post Paul vs Diaz fight pay-per-view broadcast, stating:

"I think (Nate) needs a little more work, but let's get straight to the point. I'm considerably superior to both of these guys that are out there. I'd be intrigued by the idea of taking on whoever they've got for me. If they want a Round 2 and he doesn't want to, I'll step up. He's not the only one with an older brother. Remember the original."

Nick Diaz, aged 40, has been absent from combat sports since a September 2021 defeat to Robbie Lawler. This bout, which Diaz lost via a third-round TKO, marked his first since 2015. Post-fight, Diaz suggested more matches were in his future, but the UFC and its president Dana White remained noncommittal about his path forward. Currently, it appears that Diaz is considering various possibilities.

"I'd like to get a clear understanding of the current scenario because I'm not entirely sure what's happening. However, I'd like to keep my options open... I'd be interested in exploring something in the near future. We could discuss that. It could be either of the Paul brothers, or perhaps something different. I've got a lot on my plate right now, but we can figure it out. "That's why I generally steer clear of the fight game, because when I'm in, I'm all in. It's never half-hearted for me. My presence here today, I feel, gives me an opportunity to slightly open the window. If that's the case, I just want to make it clear. I'm as motivated as ever. I work harder and am better than anyone else in this field at this point in time."

Jake Paul, 26, Won on Saturday with a unanimous decision against Nate Diaz in Paul vs Diaz bout, following a split decision loss to Tommy Fury in February. Logan Paul is gearing up for his first professional boxing match since 2019, slated to face an opponent yet to be announced on October 14 in Manchester, England.