Get ready for an epic rematch that's set to rock the boxing world in February 2025! Artur Beterbiev, the reigning unified light heavyweight champion with all four belts, is gearing up to face off against former WBA champion Dmitry Bivol once again. This highly anticipated showdown is rumored to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following their intense battle last October, where Beterbiev clinched victory by a narrow majority decision.

In their last encounter, Bivol believed he had the upper hand but fell short on the scorecards with scores of 116-112, 115-113, and 114-114. Beterbiev, who will be celebrating his 40th birthday on January 21, boasts an impressive record of 21-0 with 20 knockouts, while Bivol holds a record of 23-1 with 12 knockouts and was the first to push Beterbiev to go the distance.

Sources close to the action have hinted that the rematch is almost a done deal for February 22, with insider whispers revealing, "It's almost over the line." Initially, there were talks of both fighters taking interim matches before facing each other again, but it seems like the time is ripe for this epic showdown. Rumors are swirling about a stacked Saudi card, potentially featuring the WBO eliminator clash between Jack Catterall and Arnold Barboza, along with the WBC middleweight title bout between Carlos Adames and Hamzah Sheeraz. Get ready for a night of electrifying matchups and high-stakes drama in the ring!

Get ready for the exciting return of David Avanesyan as he gears up for a comeback fight in December with his sights set on dominating the welterweight division in 2025!

The former European and WBA welterweight champion is not one to shy away from a challenge. Despite a tough loss to Jaron Ennis in July, Avanesyan is determined to keep pushing forward. His manager, Neil Marsh, revealed, "It's still difficult to match David. Even though he will fight absolutely anybody, people keep turning him down."

But Avanesyan remains undeterred, with plans to stay active and secure another big opportunity next year. Marsh is eager to line up top UK fighters for Avanesyan, including the likes of Lewis Crocker, Paddy Donovan, Josh Taylor, and even Conor Benn. The stage is set for some thrilling matchups in the welterweight division!

Meanwhile, Zach Parker is making waves as he moves up to the light heavyweight division. A showdown between Parker and Willy Hutchinson is on the horizon for early 2025, promising to be a must-watch clash. With impressive wins under his belt this year, Parker is ready to take on Hutchinson in what could be a pivotal moment in both fighters' careers.

As the boxing world buzzes with anticipation, stay tuned for more thrilling updates and matchups in the ring. The action is heating up, and these fighters are ready to put on a show like never before!

California boasts the ultimate flex when it comes to athletic commission directors. Imagine this mic-drop moment: "My state's athletic commission director could take down yours any day." Andy Foster, a former MMA fighter with an impressive record across various combat sports, now holds the reins as the executive director of the California State Athletic Commission.

Foster's journey from the ring to the regulatory realm is a fascinating tale of seizing unexpected opportunities. A native of Dalton, Georgia, his distinctive Southern accent adds a touch of charm to his role on the West Coast. Despite his roots, Foster made the bold move to California in 2012 to lead one of the most dynamic athletic commissions in the country.

As a former fighter, referee, promoter, and trainer, Foster brings a unique perspective to his job. His experience allows him to assess fighters and match-ups with a keen eye, ensuring fair and safe competitions. He goes the extra mile by equipping referees with detailed notes for each fight card, emphasizing fighter backgrounds and potential risks.

Foster's commitment to fighter safety and fair play is unwavering. While he refrains from criticizing other commissions, he sheds light on California's approach to high-profile bouts like Tyson vs. Jones. His emphasis on transparency and consumer protection sets a standard for regulatory bodies across the nation.

Beyond his professional duties, Foster remains a fan at heart, reminiscing about his childhood heroes like Tyson and Jones. His genuine passion for the sport shines through, making him not just a director but a true advocate for the fighters and fans alike.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series, where Foster delves into the hot-button issues facing boxing today. Eric Raskin, a seasoned boxing journalist, provides an insider's look at Foster's impact on the sport and the regulatory landscape.

The latest update from the WBO rankings has stirred up the boxing world with five new top contenders emerging in their divisions. Dmitry Bivol, a powerhouse in the light heavyweight category, has now claimed the coveted No. 1 spot, following his recent showdown with Artur Beterbiev. Meanwhile, in a surprising move, Denzel Bentley has climbed to the top spot in the rankings after a series of impressive victories.

In the lightweight division, Keyshawn Davis has made a significant leap to claim the No. 1 contender position, showcasing his prowess with a remarkable knockout win. The bantamweight category sees Christian Medina's unexpected rise to the top, despite his last fight dating back to May.

The flyweight division has witnessed a shift with Francisco Rodriguez Jnr taking the lead following Sunny Edwards' upcoming title bout. The heavyweight, cruiserweight, and various other weight classes also boast a lineup of formidable titleholders and contenders, setting the stage for thrilling future matchups.

The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation as these top contenders gear up to challenge the reigning champions, promising fans a spectacle of skill and determination in the ring. The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as these fighters vie for supremacy in their respective weight divisions.

After a lively press conference in Los Angeles hyping up Ryan Garcia's upcoming exhibition match, the drama continued offstage. Garcia's promoter, the iconic Oscar De La Hoya, made it clear on Twitter that permission was key for the fight to proceed smoothly. De La Hoya declared, “Golden Boy Promotions holds the reins when it comes to Ryan Garcia's fights.” The event organizers had agreed in writing that Golden Boy's approval was a must, setting the stage for a standoff.

With a vague tweet, De La Hoya left everyone guessing about the specifics of Golden Boy Promotions' demands to greenlight the event. Garcia, no stranger to controversy, had faced suspension earlier in the year due to a failed drug test. Despite being sidelined until 2025, Garcia was eager to step back into the ring for an exhibition match against Rukiya Anpo in Tokyo on December 30. The event, backed by RIZIN and Fanmio, promised to be a must-watch spectacle in the world of combat sports.

Anpo, known for his skills in kickboxing and recent exhibition with Manny Pacquiao, was set to clash with Garcia in a matchup with a weight limit of 153 pounds and an exciting format of eight two-minute rounds. The anticipation was building for what could be an electrifying showdown between two formidable fighters from different disciplines.

David Greisman, a seasoned boxing journalist with a passion for the sport, shared his insights on the unfolding saga on Twitter and through his podcast. As the boxing world held its breath, waiting for the next twist in the tale, the stage was set for Garcia and Anpo to potentially make history in the ring.

Get ready for an electrifying showdown between WBA junior welterweight champ Jose “El Rayo” Valenzuela and top contender Gary Antuanne Russell! Sources have spilled the beans that these two powerhouses are on the verge of locking in a clash that promises fireworks in 2025.

Rumor has it that this epic battle might just steal the spotlight on the upcoming Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach PBC Pay-Per-View extravaganza on Prime Video. The event is allegedly set to rock the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on March 1 – stay tuned for the official announcement, fight fans!

Valenzuela and Russell, both lefties known for their knockout power, are gearing up to bring the heat to the ring. Valenzuela, aged 25, is fresh off a stellar 12-round victory against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz last August, proving himself as a force to be reckoned with in the division.

Meanwhile, Russell, a 28-year-old rising star from Capitol Heights, Maryland, has been making waves with his impressive record of stopping his first 17 opponents. Despite a setback with a split decision loss to Alberto Puello, Russell is now eyeing redemption as he aims to claim a full title in a high-stakes showdown against Valenzuela.

In the words of Bernard Neequaye, a seasoned sports journalist and boxing aficionado, “This clash of titans is set to shake up the world of boxing and deliver a showdown for the ages!”

Get ready for an epic battle that will have boxing fans on the edge of their seats!

At just 18 years old, Curmel Moton, also known as "The Big Deal," is already living up to his nickname with flying colors, backed by none other than Floyd Mayweather himself. This rising lightweight sensation is set to showcase his talent once again in a six-round bout against Bryan Mercado on a Danny Garcia's Swift Promotions card at ACX1 Studios in Atlantic City, New Jersey this Saturday.

Moton, boasting an impressive amateur career with 18 national titles, has seamlessly transitioned into the professional boxing world with a record of 6-0, including 5 knockouts. His recent streak of three consecutive first-round wins has turned heads and raised expectations. Training in Las Vegas has clearly paid off for Moton, who fearlessly took on an eight-rounder in just his third professional fight and is now gearing up for his fourth six-round battle.

His opponent, Bryan Mercado, brings veteran experience to the ring with a record of 11-6-1, but has faced setbacks in his recent matches. Despite his resilience, having never been stopped before the fifth round, Mercado will have his hands full against the young and hungry Moton.

For Moton, this fight is not just another stepping stone in his career but a chance to solidify his status as a future boxing star. With the spotlight on him, he aims to prove that he is more than just a promising prospect but a force to be reckoned with in the ring.

As the anticipation builds for this exciting matchup, fans and critics alike are eager to see if Curmel Moton can continue his meteoric rise in the world of boxing.

Ryan Garcia and Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo came face to face for the first time on Tuesday in Beverly Hills, setting the stage for their upcoming exhibition match in Tokyo. This event marks Garcia's return to the spotlight after a tumultuous period following his controversial fight against Devin Haney.

Garcia, with a record of 24-1 (20 KOs), faced media scrutiny after testing positive for a banned substance in his bout with Haney, resulting in a suspension and the fight being ruled a no contest. Now, looking to make a comeback, Garcia is eager to showcase his skills against Anpo, a seasoned kickboxer with an impressive track record.

The exhibition match, set at a catchweight of 153lbs, promises an electrifying showdown with eight two-minute rounds and 10-ounce gloves. FanMio CEO Solomon Engel revealed that the event's undercard will feature former champions and rising boxing stars in exhibition bouts, drawing anticipation from fans worldwide.

Addressing the media, Garcia expressed his determination to stay active and prepare for future fights. Despite the setbacks, he sees the exhibition as an opportunity to stay in shape and build momentum for his return to professional boxing. With plans to potentially face elite opponents like Haney, Gervonta Davis, Teofimo Lopez Jr., and Jose Valenzuela, Garcia remains focused on delivering exciting performances for his fans.

As the excitement builds for the exhibition in Tokyo, Garcia remains open to further opportunities in the ring, hinting at possible rematches and challenging matchups on the horizon. Embracing the chance to engage with a new audience in Japan, Garcia is committed to putting on a captivating show and expanding his fan base.

The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between Garcia and Anpo, offering a glimpse into the future of boxing and the resilience of a determined fighter on a quest for redemption.

This fight week is shaping up to be an exciting and unique experience for Conah Walker. Stepping into the ring against Lewis Ritson on the undercard of the highly anticipated flyweight showdown between Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai in Birmingham is a significant moment for the welterweight fighter from Wolverhampton.

Previously overlooked, Walker now finds his face prominently displayed on fight posters and pre-fight interviews focusing on his aspirations rather than just his underdog status. These subtle affirmations mark a turning point in Walker's career, a testament to his perseverance and dedication to his craft.

Walker's journey has been anything but easy, taking on tough challenges that others avoided. Despite setbacks, he persisted, leading him to this pivotal moment in his career. Reflecting on his path, Walker acknowledges, "Finally all the hard work, sacrifice, and taking the fights that people didn't want to take is paying dividends."

With the upcoming bout against Ritson, Walker sees a gateway to more significant opportunities on the horizon. He remains grounded yet determined, understanding the importance of staying true to his style and not shying away from the demands of the welterweight division.

Walker's approach is straightforward - he doesn't back down, and he doesn't intend to start now. His grit and determination have earned him respect, even in defeat. He remains focused on his goals, driven by the desire to provide a better life for himself and his family.

The choice of Ritson as Walker's opponent is strategic, offering a chance to showcase his skills and outperform his rivals. Walker's direct and aggressive style contrasts with Ritson's forward-moving approach, setting the stage for an intense and entertaining clash.

As Walker prepares for the fight, he admires Ritson's past accomplishments but sees this as an opportunity to prove himself. He acknowledges Ritson's strengths but believes in his own abilities to emerge victorious in this showdown.

The upcoming bout symbolizes a shift in Walker's career, a moment where he steps out of the shadows and into the spotlight. With his eyes set on victory, Walker is ready to seize the moment and make a statement in the welterweight division.

In the world of boxing, where resilience and determination reign supreme, Conah Walker's journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering belief in oneself. As he gears up to face Ritson, all eyes will be on this rising star as he aims to carve his path to greatness in the ring.

Junior lightweight Oscar Valdez is gearing up for a showdown with Emanuel Navarrete, hungry for redemption after his previous defeat. Valdez, with a record of 32-2 (24 KOs), is all set to face off against Navarrete, who secured a unanimous decision win in their last encounter 15 months ago.

In a recent interview with Fight Hype TV, Valdez expressed his determination to set things right this time around. He acknowledged the disappointment of his loss in the first fight but emphasized that he is more focused and prepared than ever for the upcoming championship bout. Valdez sees this rematch as a golden opportunity to claim the victory that eluded him before.

Navarrete, with a record of 38-2-1 (31 KOs), is returning to the junior lightweight division after a brief stint at 135 pounds, where he suffered a split decision loss. Despite speculation about Navarrete's form following his defeat at a higher weight class, Valdez remains unfazed and is training diligently to face a formidable opponent.

Reflecting on his past mistakes, Valdez admitted to veering off his game plan in the previous fight, chasing a knockout instead of sticking to his strategy. Learning from this experience, he is now focused on honing his skills and fighting smarter to secure a win in the upcoming match.

As the anticipation builds for this highly anticipated rematch, boxing fans are eagerly awaiting the clash between these two skilled fighters. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying battle in the ring.

For more boxing insights and updates, follow sports journalist Bernard Neequaye on X (formerly Twitter) at @BernardNeequaye and LinkedIn at Bernard Neequaye. You can also reach out to him via email at bernardneequaye@gmail.com.

Exciting news in the boxing world as the talented Team GB Olympian, Pat Brown, has just inked a major deal with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing! Get ready to witness his professional debut in 2025 at cruiserweight, broadcast live on DAZN for fans around the globe.

Hailing from Manchester, Brown will be sharpening his skills under the guidance of trainers Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis at the V.I.P Gym in Astley. Joining forces with fellow Matchroom fighters like Jack Catterall, Cameron Vuong, and Conner Tudsbury, Brown is set to make waves with his heavy-handed, all-action fighting style that first caught the eye of the Great Britain set-up back in 2022.

Born and raised in Sale, Brown's boxing journey began at the Sale West Amateur Boxing Club, the same place where British legend Ricky Hatton honed his craft. From winning multiple championships to earning a spot on the GB Boxing Podium Squad, Brown's rise to success has been nothing short of remarkable.

With his sights set on selling out arenas and bringing back the glory days of Manchester boxing, Brown is eager to put on thrilling performances in the ring. Matchroom Chairman Eddie Hearn is thrilled about this signing, believing that Brown has what it takes to become a British boxing star.

Managed by Sam Jones, Brown's journey promises to be filled with excitement and potential. With a team of experienced professionals backing him, including Moore and Travis, the stage is set for Brown to shine brightly in the boxing world. Get ready to witness his journey unfold in 2025, live on DAZN – it's going to be a knockout ride!

Get ready for the showdown of the year in Puerto Rico on December 7 at the Coliseo Robert Clemente as IBF junior welterweight champion Liam Paro throws down the gauntlet to challenger Richardson Hitchins!

Paro boldly declares, "I am a true warrior with unmatched grit. I fear no challenge and will take on anyone, anywhere." Assessing Hitchins, Paro doesn't hold back, "He's all talk and no action. He needs to step up and prove his worth in the ring, not just to me but to the world. Show us what you're made of on December 7!"

Paro is eager to face the best version of the undefeated New Yorker, Hitchins. However, Hitchins fires back, labeling Paro as a "dirty fighter" and claiming his extensive amateur background will give him the edge over the Australian champion.

Hitchins criticizes Paro's victory over Matias, dismissing it as nothing special. He challenges Paro to a brawl, questioning his opponent's willingness to engage in a real fight rather than resorting to clinching tactics.

Reflecting on his own struggles in the ring, Hitchins points out the challenges he faced in his last bout due to a damaged hand and weight issues. He downplays Paro's win over Matias, suggesting it was not a significant achievement.

The tension is palpable as both fighters exchange verbal jabs, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown that promises to be a battle of wills and skills. Don't miss the action as Paro and Hitchins go head-to-head in a clash that will determine who truly deserves the title of champion!

William Zepeda must be wishing he hadn't tangled with the wily Tevin Farmer in Saudi Arabia on November 16. Knocked down in the fourth round, Zepeda managed to clinch a controversial victory after ten rounds, but not without some damage to his reputation and more.

Looking ahead to his highly anticipated bout with Shakur Stevenson set for February 22, 2025, the undefeated Zepeda, with an impressive record of 32-0 (27 KOs), had to face the disappointing news of a hand injury sustained during the fight in the Middle East. This setback has unfortunately led to his withdrawal from the chance to challenge for the WBC lightweight title.

Sharing a photo of himself wearing a sling on social media, the 28-year-old lefty Zepeda expressed, "After our last showdown with Farmer, we came away with a left hand injury. While gearing up to hit the gym again this week, medical advice has mandated a rest period of 6 to 8 weeks for optimal recovery.

"It's crucial for us to take this short break to secure our future in the ring. We're aware that 2025 holds tremendous opportunities, and we need to be in peak condition. Once this healing phase is over, we aim to make a comeback by the end of March."

Most Valuable Promotions is firing back at wild online theories suggesting that the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight was staged. The buzz is fueled by fans who can't wrap their heads around the fact that a 58-year-old Tyson didn't obliterate Paul in the ring like he did in his prime.

Former NFL star Michael Irvin added fuel to the fire by claiming the fight was a sham because Tyson didn't throw his signature uppercut. But let's be real here - Tyson is well past his prime, had a bad knee, and was up against a younger opponent. Paul, being respectful, kept his distance and took it easy on the aging legend.

Irvin's theory that the uppercut was excluded from the contract is simply absurd. MVP quickly shut down these claims, reminding everyone that fixing fights is illegal and that the match was legit, sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations.

MVP also pointed out the risks of jeopardizing their partnership with Netflix, who streamed the fight globally. The partnership is a big deal and rigging the fight would be a foolish move.

While skepticism towards boxing is understandable, jumping to conspiracy theories is unfair to the fighters who put in hard work. Trash talk and speculation are part of sports, but questioning the fighters' efforts is just plain disrespectful.

In the end, let's give credit where it's due. Tyson may be a legend, but age catches up with everyone. Let's appreciate the fight for what it was - a clash between generations that showcased respect and sportsmanship.

Sunny Edwards, the former flyweight world champion, spilled the beans that he kicked off his training for the upcoming brawl with Galal Yafai sans a coach. Following a recent victory over Adrian Curiel but a tough loss to Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, Edwards bid adieu to his long-time mentor Grant Smith at the Steel City boxing gym in Sheffield earlier this year after a successful partnership.

For his showdown with Yafai, Edwards hooked up with Chris Williams in Liverpool. Williams, who trains Brandon Daord, a boxer managed by Edwards, and Ryan Farrag, a former opponent turned friend of Edwards, provides the perfect sparring partners in his new training camp.

Edwards shared, “I've spent some quality time with Chris. Brandon has been a crucial sparring partner for me in several camps, including this one, as well as the 'Bam' fight. I've also bonded with Ryan Farrag, who was a significant opponent for me. The gym atmosphere is great, the sparring is top-notch, and Chris has a sharp boxing mind. Plus, I enjoy his company.”

Before settling on a new coach, Edwards explored various coaching options, including a visit to Adam Booth's gym in South London. Reflecting on his time with Booth, Edwards said, “I considered working with Adam for this fight, but with my responsibilities and lifestyle, we realized our current situations didn't align perfectly. However, I greatly respect Adam, and who knows what the future holds. Our relationship goes beyond just boxing.”

Despite his fruitful partnership with Grant Smith, Edwards, now boasting a record of 21-1 (4 KOs), decided to part ways amicably to seek new challenges. Edwards clarified, “It wasn't a fallout, more of a natural progression after a decade together. Changes happen, but it's not personal. I still collaborate with Grant on managing fighters and have worked corners with him post-gym departure. It's more about seeking freedom and exploring new training environments at this stage in my life.”

Training in Liverpool has brought Edwards a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of his early camp days, allowing him to travel on weekends, focus on training, and spend quality time with his kids. It’s a refreshing change that he’s relishing.

Gilberto Ramirez is on a quest to conquer the cruiserweight division, having already secured two world titles. But there's a hurdle he must clear before aiming for a third crown - mandatory challenger Yuniel Dorticos, currently holding the top spot in the WBA rankings. Dorticos has been patiently waiting for his shot since November 2022, despite some twists and turns along the way.

Dorticos, with a record of 27-2 and 25 knockouts, hasn't been very active lately. The Cuban fighter, who now calls Miami home, has only stepped into the ring three times against lesser-known opponents since losing his IBF title to Mairis Briedis in 2020. Despite these gaps in his fight schedule, Dorticos seems poised to finally get his chance at Ramirez.

According to Eric Gomez of Golden Boy Promotions, the plan is to address Dorticos' mandatory challenge before considering a unification fight with Jai Opetaia, the current lineal champion and IBF titleholder. Opetaia, on the other hand, is gearing up for his own mandatory defense against Huseyin Cinkara in January.

Opetaia's rise to the top has been marked by impressive victories and strategic moves, including vacating the IBF title to face tough opponents like Ellis Zorro and securing his place as a dominant force in the division. With both Ramirez and Opetaia navigating their paths to greatness, the stage is set for an epic showdown that could determine the undisputed champion of the cruiserweight division.

For more boxing insights and analysis, follow David Greisman on Twitter @FightingWords2 and @UnitedBoxingPod . His book, "Fighting Words: The Heart and Heartbreak of Boxing," offers a deep dive into the world of boxing and is available on Amazon.

Step into the boxing ring with Pryce Taylor, the 28-year-old Brooklyn fighter who is all about cool confidence in a world of scowls and bravado. Recently signed with Salita Promotions, Pryce is gearing up for his next fight on December 12 at the Dort Federal Event Center in Flint, Michigan, where he'll take on KeShawn Jackson from Kalamazoo.

Despite his modest 4-0 record, Pryce has his eyes set on big goals, aiming for a flawless 100-0 record in the future. His flashy yet focused style is a testament to his training under coach Benny Roman at NY Cops and Kids gym, where he's honed his skills and mindset.

Pryce's journey to success hasn't been without hurdles. An injury earlier this year slowed him down, but he's ready to make a comeback and showcase his talent in the ring. Inspired by fighters like Shakur Stevenson and Keyshawn Davis, Pryce approaches boxing with a strategic mindset, always learning and evolving his style.

With a love for chess, Pryce sees boxing as a tactical game where patience is key. But don't mistake his calm demeanor for hesitation – when it's time to attack, he strikes with precision. His upcoming opponent, Jackson, may have opted for a shorter fight, but Pryce sees it as a sign of fear and is ready to bring the heat.

As Pryce aims to fast-track his career and climb the ranks, his confidence shines through, even as he approaches the challenging age of 30 for athletes. With a smile that can intimidate opponents and a demeanor that speaks volumes, Pryce Taylor is a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world.

Get ready for an epic showdown between Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai! The action goes down on Saturday, November 2 at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (7 p.m. GMT) and you can catch it on DAZN. This fight is not just about punches and jabs - it's a clash of personalities and ambitions. Edwards, a former titleholder, will face off against the undefeated rising star Yafai in a battle to make their mark in the flyweight division.

The tension between these two fighters is palpable as they step into the ring once again after a long wait. Edwards, with a record of 21-1 and 4 KOs, has already tasted victory at the world level. However, his title reign was cut short by a tough defeat to Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez. On the other side, Yafai, with a record of 8-0 and 6 KOs, is eager to climb the ranks quickly after a successful amateur career that culminated in an Olympic gold medal.

As the bell rings, the stakes couldn't be higher. The winner of this match will not only secure a shot at Teraji but also advance in a division filled with formidable opponents. It's a clash of past encounters and future aspirations that promises an adrenaline-packed spectacle for fight fans.

Don't forget to keep an eye out for the undercard matchups, including a thrilling battle between middleweights Kieron Conway and Ryan Kelly, along with appearances by promising prospects. And mark your calendars for other exciting fights like Deontae Pettigrew vs. Fabio Maldonado on November 27 and Ardy Katompa vs. Sabelo Ngebinyana on November 28. The boxing world is heating up, and you won't want to miss a single moment of the action!

Follow David Greisman on Twitter @FightingWords2 and @UnitedBoxingPod for more boxing insights. And if you love the sweet science, check out his book, "Fighting Words: The Heart and Heartbreak of Boxing," available on Amazon. Let's get ready to rumble!

David Benavidez is setting his sights on the cruiserweight division, according to his father and trainer, Jose Benavidez Snr. The plan is to potentially challenge WBO 200-pound champion Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez if a matchup with the winner of the Artur Beterbiev-Dmitry Bivol light heavyweight championship doesn't materialize.

Benavidez Snr expressed excitement about the prospect, stating, "Yeah, that's what we could do right away, so that's what we're looking for. If the fight with the Beterbiev-Bivol winner doesn't happen, we're ready to move up to cruiserweight and take on Zurdo Ramirez. It's a possibility we're exploring."

Before Benavidez can chase his dream bout with Beterbiev, Bivol, or Ramirez, he faces a crucial test against David Morrell for the WBA interim 175-pound title on February 1 in Las Vegas. Benavidez Snr emphasized the significance of this fight, highlighting Morrell's skills but expressing confidence in David's abilities.

"If David can get past Morrell, we're aiming for big fights with top fighters like Beterbiev, Bivol, and hopefully Ramirez," Benavidez Snr stated. He also shared his thoughts on a potential rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol, foreseeing another close and competitive battle between the two elite light heavyweights.

Bernard Neequaye, a seasoned sports journalist specializing in boxing, provides insightful coverage of the sport. You can connect with him on X (formerly Twitter) at @BernardNeequaye, on LinkedIn at Bernard Neequaye, or via email at bernardneequaye@gmail.com.

The boxing world is reeling from the recent loss of the cherished trainer Max Garcia, who passed away at the age of 73 due to kidney failure. Known as a pillar of the Salinas, California community, Garcia's impact extended far beyond the boxing ring, leaving a profound mark on the lives he touched.

Over two decades ago, Garcia embarked on his journey as a trainer, initially starting at a gym in east Salinas before transforming his home into a training hub for aspiring boxers. Boxing was more than just a sport for Garcia; it was a way of life that brought families together. His wife, Kathy, and daughter, Melissa, took charge of managing the fighters, while his son, Sam, stood by as an assistant coach. Today, Sam is determined to carry on his father's legacy and continue the family tradition in Riverside.

Throughout his illustrious career, Garcia mentored boxers from all corners of the United States, earning accolades for his unwavering dedication to their well-being. While a world title remained elusive, Garcia's commitment shone through in his willingness to travel for sparring sessions with renowned coaches and fighters across California.

Sam fondly reminisced about his father, describing him as not just a mentor but his best friend. The void left by Garcia's passing is palpable, but Sam is resolute in upholding his father's teachings and values at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy.

Legendary cutman Mike Bazzel shared heartfelt anecdotes of his collaboration with Garcia, highlighting the trust and camaraderie they shared. Their partnership was a testament to Garcia's belief in nurturing talent and passing on knowledge to the next generation of boxing professionals.

Although Garcia may not have clinched a world title during his career, his legacy lives on through the fighters he guided and the positive impact he had on countless individuals. Safety and holistic preparation were at the forefront of Garcia's coaching philosophy, ensuring that his athletes were not only skilled in the ring but also equipped for life beyond boxing.

Sam proudly carries forward his father's legacy, knowing that Garcia's spirit lives on through his dedication to the sport and the fighters he mentors. Max Garcia may have left this world, but his influence endures in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him.