Get ready for a showdown filled with pride and redemption as Christopher "Pitufo" Diaz gears up to face off against fellow Puerto Rican, Henry Lebron. This epic battle of wills is not just about throwing punches; it's about rewriting the narrative of Diaz being labeled as second-best throughout his career.

The stage is set at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where Diaz and Lebron will go head-to-head in a 10-round junior lightweight bout, airing live on DAZN. Originally scheduled for June, the fight was postponed, giving both fighters extra time to fine-tune their strategies and sharpen their skills.

Stealing the spotlight at the press conference, Diaz exuded confidence with his shiny bald head and neatly trimmed beard. With words straight out of a boxing movie script, the 30-year-old Diaz made it clear that this fight holds immense significance for him. "I have been working so many years... If you see my losses, they are to ex-world champions," Diaz passionately stated, emphasizing his relentless pursuit to claim victory.

Diaz's journey in the ring has been tumultuous, facing setbacks after setbacks against top-tier opponents. Despite his past defeats, Diaz remains resolute and unwavering in his determination to come out on top. "I am coming to fight," he boldly declared, sending a clear message to his critics and fans alike.

On the other side of the ring stands Henry Lebron, boasting an unblemished record of 19-0 (7 KOs). Despite a 13-month hiatus from his last fight, Lebron exudes confidence and readiness, eager to prove himself against Diaz. Managed by Peter Kahn and making his debut under a Matchroom Boxing card, Lebron kept his pre-fight comments concise and professional, hinting at his hunger for recognition and success.

As the anticipation builds for this highly anticipated matchup, both Diaz and Lebron are geared up to leave it all in the ring, each with their own story of resilience and redemption. Get ready for a night of electrifying action as these two warriors collide in a battle for glory.

Get ready for a seven-fight extravaganza happening on February 22 in Riyadh! Big names and exciting matchups await, including a highly anticipated rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. But is this rematch really necessary? Some fans argue that Beterbiev dominated the first fight, but others point out that Bivol held his ground in several rounds. The close call has left many eager for a rematch.

The clash between junior middleweight contenders Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Israil Madrimov is another highlight. Madrimov's back-to-back fights against Serhii Bohachuk in December and Ortiz in February have raised eyebrows. Can Madrimov recover in time for such intense matchups? It's a risky move, but it adds an element of thrill to an already stacked card.

In the heavyweight division, Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel are set to face off. While some predict a slow-paced fight, others anticipate explosive moments as both fighters possess knockout power. It's a matchup that promises intrigue and excitement.

In a tribute to a fallen warrior, we remember Israel Vazquez, who left a lasting impact on the boxing world. His thrilling trilogies with the likes of Rafael Marquez showcased his grit and determination in the ring. Vazquez's legacy lives on, reminding us of the sacrifices and triumphs in the sport.

Boxing is a world of highs and lows, where the unexpected often takes center stage. From controversial decisions to courageous comebacks, the sport never fails to surprise. As fans, we embrace the unpredictability and honor the legends who have left their mark on the ring.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on these upcoming fights and boxing legends. Your voice could be featured in the mailbag, so don't miss out on the chance to be part of the discussion. Let's celebrate the thrill and drama of boxing together!

In a fiery showdown marking the end of their press tour, Gervonta "Tank" Davis and Lamont Roach Jnr locked eyes, building anticipation for their upcoming clash at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on March 1.

Roach, the reigning WBA junior lightweight titleholder hailing from Baltimore, is a prominent figure in the boxing world. Despite their history and mutual respect, both fighters are gearing up for a showdown that promises fireworks. After a lively press conference in New York, the tour made its way to Washington, D.C., where Roach, stepping up in weight to face Davis, expressed gratitude to his team and confidently declared, "Come March 1, we're ready to kick some ass."

Davis, known for his explosive style, acknowledged the support of his team and praised Roach as "a great fighter." Embracing the rivalry between D.C. and Baltimore, Davis reflected on his roots, saying, "D.C. versus Baltimore on March 1—it's always been a rivalry. But with me, D.C. feels like home." Recalling his journey through the regional and national circuits, Davis emphasized the camaraderie with his D.C. counterparts, turning former rivals into family.

With excitement building for their upcoming match, Davis hinted at the electrifying show they are set to deliver. The stage is set for a showdown that promises to captivate fans and ignite the longstanding rivalry between these two fighters.

In an intense showdown set for this Saturday, Robeisy Ramirez is gearing up to settle the score with Rafael Espinoza and snatch back the WBO featherweight title he lost in a close battle last year. The Cuban boxing sensation, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, is eager to avenge his defeat and make a statement in the ring.

Reflecting on their previous encounter, Ramirez recalls the thrilling exchanges that saw both fighters hitting the canvas. He promises fans an even fiercer fight this time around, vowing, "Expect a war. Everything you saw in the first fight – expect more. But the result will be different. A knockout can happen in this fight."

With his eyes set on victory, Ramirez is focused on enhancing his physical conditioning to outlast Espinoza in the upcoming bout. Training hard under the guidance of his coach, Ismael Salas, Ramirez is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for redemption. "We're sparring with fighters who throw a lot of punches. We’re working on my physique and movement," Ramirez shares, emphasizing his dedication to emerging victorious.

Acknowledging Espinoza's resilience and skill as a Mexican fighter, Ramirez respects his opponent's ability to bounce back from adversity. Despite Espinoza's impressive performance in their last fight, Ramirez remains confident in his own abilities and is determined to emerge triumphant this time.

As the anticipation builds for their rematch, boxing fans can expect a thrilling showdown between these two warriors. With both fighters coming off recent victories, the stage is set for an electrifying battle that is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

The rematch between Ramirez and Espinoza will serve as the co-main event to the highly-anticipated clash between Oscar Valdez and Emanuel Navarrete at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, promising a night packed with adrenaline-pumping action and unforgettable moments in the ring.

In the heart of Phoenix, the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera, a Mexican Hall of Famer known for epic rematches, shared his wisdom with BoxingScene. Barrera, who engaged in thrilling trilogies with Erik Morales and faced off against Manny Pacquiao, offered insights ahead of the ESPN card featuring Emanuel Navarrete and Oscar Valdez.

Reflecting on past battles, Barrera emphasized the need for fighters like Valdez and Ramirez to evolve their strategies. "Try not to do the same fight, try to avoid the same plan," Barrera advised. With opponents having studied their styles, adaptability is key to success in the ring.

Barrera acknowledged the stubborn nature of boxers, recognizing the challenge of changing tactics. "Ninety percent, we can't change. There is a stubbornness, our cajones," he remarked. However, he believed that Valdez, with his experience and skill, could implement a revised game plan effectively.

The upcoming Navarrete-Valdez rematch promises excitement, with Navarrete looking to redeem himself after a recent loss. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum's comments added fuel to the anticipation, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown. Navarrete's determination was evident, promising a fierce battle in the ring.

As the fight approaches, Barrera expressed optimism for Valdez's chances, highlighting the need for strategic flexibility. Recognizing Valdez's intelligence and Olympic background, Barrera envisioned a path to victory by tapping into his past successes. The potential for an epic showdown between Valdez and Navarrete loomed large, with Barrera refraining from making a prediction but expressing confidence in Valdez's abilities.

Looking ahead, Barrera shared his excitement for Espinoza's prospects and the potential for a future clash with Naoya Inoue. The prospect of Mexican boxers reaching new heights fueled Barrera's optimism, underscoring the resilience and talent that define the boxing world. As the stage is set for thrilling matchups and historic moments, the boxing world eagerly awaits the showdowns that lie ahead.

Gervonta "Tank" Davis is no stranger to the ring in Washington, D.C. Having started his career in the D.C. Armory and fought in the area multiple times, including a sold-out show at the Capital One Arena, he's practically a hometown hero. However, with a rivalry brewing between D.C. and Baltimore, where Davis hails from, his upcoming title defense against Lamont Roach Jnr adds an extra layer of intensity to the mix.

When the fighters faced off at the press conference at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium, the atmosphere was electric. Roach's supporters made their presence known, but Davis wasn't about to back down. The banter between the two fighters escalated as they discussed representing their cities and predicting knockout rounds.

As Roach's fans voiced their opinions, Davis didn't hold back, promising to silence them in the ring. The tension between the two only grew, setting the stage for an explosive showdown on fight night. With emotions running high and pride on the line, this battle between D.C. and Baltimore is about more than just a title – it's personal.

In the world of boxing, there comes a time when a man faces a defining moment that can lead to greatness. Rafael Espinoza seized his moment a year ago, and since then, the challenges he's faced have seemed less daunting.

This Saturday night, fans will witness a rematch between Mexico's Espinoza and Cuba's Robiesy Ramirez in a highly anticipated co-main event. Their previous battle ended with Espinoza claiming victory in the 12th round, a victory that resonated deeply with his fellow countrymen.

Reflecting on his triumph, Espinoza shared, "One thing I noticed is my mind is stronger than my body. I just kept going. I knocked him down. I was on him." His resilience and determination earned him praise from boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera, who remarked, "That stamped him as a Mexican."

As Espinoza gears up for his upcoming bout, the anticipation is palpable. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum hailed him as a Mexican hero, highlighting his remarkable comeback in the previous fight despite suffering an early ankle injury. The fans want to see Espinoza in action again, knowing that he will deliver an unforgettable performance.

Trainer Manny Robles revealed a pivotal moment when Espinoza refused to give up after injuring his ankle during the last fight. His unwavering determination to become a world champion propelled him forward, culminating in a stunning victory over Sergio Chirino Sanchez in his subsequent bout.

Confident and prepared for the rematch, Espinoza is focused on building upon his past successes. He emphasized, "I'm bringing the same energy from the 12th round to this second fight because that's what made me win the championship." With improved training and a solid game plan, Espinoza is poised for another impressive performance.

Looking ahead, Espinoza is determined to make his mark in the featherweight division and potentially face off against the likes of Naoya Inoue. As he sets his sights on unifying the belts, Espinoza knows that a victory on Saturday will bring him one step closer to his ultimate goal.

With the boxing world watching closely, all eyes are on Espinoza as he prepares to showcase his skills and determination in the ring once again.

Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach Jnr are about to step into the ring once again after more than a decade since their last amateur bout. The upcoming showdown on March 1 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, promises to be a thrilling clash between two vastly evolved fighters.

Roach, reflecting on his growth since their last encounter, expressed, "I got better in every aspect. I'm older, more mature, and a better boxer than I was before." Davis, undefeated with an impressive record of 30-0, acknowledged Roach's improvement, recognizing him as "world-class better."

Both fighters have come a long way since their early days in the ring. Roach highlighted his overall development, stating, "I'm the total package, and honestly sometimes I think he doubts himself." On the other hand, Davis remains confident in his abilities, ready to analyze Roach's strengths and counter them effectively during the fight.

The anticipation is high as these two skilled boxers prepare to face off once again. Roach believes that they both understand the challenge ahead, ensuring an electrifying showdown for fans eagerly awaiting this long-awaited rematch.

Get ready for a knockout night as trainer Robert Garcia, the man who's making waves in the boxing world, is set to bring a powerhouse of five fighters to the upcoming Top Rank card at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. From rising stars to seasoned contenders, Garcia's crew is ready to set the ring on fire.

Garcia, a top contender for the Boxing Writers Association of America Trainer of the Year award, has some exciting updates on his star fighters. Undefeated junior bantamweight champion Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez is eyeing a unification bout in May, targeting the winner of the WBA or IBF title fights. According to Garcia, "Whatever champion, whoever's available."

In another corner, WBC interim junior middleweight titleholder Vergil Ortiz Jr. is gearing up to face off against Israil Madrimov. Garcia expressed surprise at the matchup, considering Madrimov's recent tough fight. "I find it very hard to believe he can get through two very hard training camps and be at 100 percent. To see those fights lined up is too hard to believe."

Among the fighters Garcia will be cornering on Saturday is lightweight contender Giovanni Santillan, who is making a comeback after a setback. Garcia believes Santillan is mentally prepared and ready to deliver a stellar performance against Fredrick Lawson.

Junior lightweight Albert "Chop Chop" Gonzalez is another standout prospect under Garcia's wing. Garcia has high praise for Gonzalez, highlighting his exceptional skills and determination. "He's one of the special ones. He has so much discipline... He has tools, power, defense, speed, everything."

Veteran Lindolfo Delgado, ranked in the top 15 by multiple organizations, is hungry for a breakthrough moment in his fight against Jackson Marinez. Garcia is confident that Delgado will shine when faced with a formidable opponent who brings out the best in him.

With a lineup of promising fighters, including newcomers Cesar Morales and Art Barrera Jr., Garcia is ready to showcase the talent and tenacity of his team. As Garcia puts it, "Keep an eye on these kids - they can fight."

As the anticipation builds for an action-packed night, Garcia credits his assistant trainers for their support in managing the busy schedule. With a mix of seasoned contenders and rising stars, Garcia's fighters are set to dazzle the audience and leave a lasting impact in the boxing world.

In a whirlwind fifteen years, the world has seen immense changes, from Michael Jackson's passing to Barack Obama's inauguration, and the rise of "Avatar" as a box office champion. Amidst this social evolution, even the realm of boxing hasn't been immune to transformation.

Back in 2009, opening up about mental health struggles was a rarity in the boxing world. It took courage for fighters like Tyson Fury and Sugar Ray Leonard to share their inner battles. Darren Sutherland, a promising Irish boxer with a bright future, revealed the hidden loneliness behind the glitz and glamor of his career.

During an interview, Sutherland confessed, "It's lonely." This revelation shed light on the unseen pressures and struggles he faced despite external success. His vulnerability made him relatable, yet it was a stark reminder of the silent battles many fighters endure.

Tragically, Sutherland's story took a devastating turn when he took his life in 2009. His untimely death shocked the boxing community and left a void where a promising career once flourished. His coach, Brian Lawrence, still recalls Sutherland's immense talent and the potential he held to become a world champion.

Sutherland's passing highlighted the harsh realities fighters face behind closed doors. The pressures of performance, public scrutiny, and isolation can take a toll on mental well-being. Johnny Nelson, a former world champion, empathized with Sutherland's struggles in navigating the lonely path of a fighter.

The aftermath of Sutherland's death reverberated throughout the boxing world, prompting a shift towards destigmatizing mental health discussions among fighters. His legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health challenges in a sport known for its toughness.

Despite the tragic end to his story, Darren Sutherland's memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Fighters like James DeGale honor his legacy, recognizing his strength and the impact he had on those around him. Sutherland's narrative serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging a more open dialogue on mental health within the boxing community.

In a sport where solitude and struggles often go hand in hand, Darren Sutherland's story stands as a testament to the hidden battles fighters face and the importance of reaching out for help. His memory serves as a beacon, reminding us to prioritize mental well-being and support one another in times of need.

WBA junior-welterweight champion, Jose "Rayo" Valenzuela, is taking legal action to break free from his management agreement in a dramatic move filed in Southern California. The lawsuit targets his former trainer and manager, Jose Benavidez Snr, and boxing attorney David Garcia, aiming to release Valenzuela from a binding contract that extends until Christmas Eve 2026, requiring him to pay 33 and 1/3 per cent of his earnings to the management team.

After securing a significant victory over Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz, Valenzuela made a strategic shift to trainer Robert Garcia. With an upcoming title defense against Gary Antuanne Russell, tensions rise as Valenzuela navigates this legal battle without Benavidez Snr and Garcia in his corner.

The lawsuit delves into the complexities of boxing management agreements and questions the licensing requirements for managers in the sport. Valenzuela's legal team argues that the contract is "illegal, unenforceable, and invalid," setting the stage for a potentially groundbreaking legal showdown.

As the legal saga unfolds, Valenzuela's attorneys, led by Joel M. Siegel and Blake L. Osborn, are pushing for transparency and seeking clarity on the ethical implications of attorneys doubling as boxing managers without proper licensing. The lawsuit challenges the dual representation of conflicting interests and raises questions about the validity of the existing contract.

With the California State Athletic Commission potentially getting involved, the outcome remains uncertain. Valenzuela's bold move to challenge the status quo in boxing management sets the stage for a high-stakes legal battle that could reshape the landscape of fighter representation in the sport.

Get ready for a night of epic showdowns on Saturday, December 7th! The action kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time with the preliminaries, so make sure you're tuned in to ESPN, ESPN Deportes, or ESPN+ in the U.S., Sky Sports in the U.K., and Ireland.

The main event at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona features two thrilling title rematches. Emanuel Navarrete defends his WBO junior lightweight world title against Oscar Valdez in a highly anticipated sequel to their previous clash. Expect fireworks as these two warriors battle it out for supremacy in the ring.

Navarrete, with a record of 38-2-1 (31 KOs), aims to solidify his dominance in a weight class filled with uncertainty. On the other hand, Valdez seeks redemption and another shot at a world title. It's a high-stakes match that promises excitement and drama.

In the co-feature, Rafael Espinoza and Robeisy Ramirez meet again in a rematch that guarantees intense action. Espinoza aims to defend his WBO featherweight belt against Ramirez, who is looking to avenge his previous loss. The outcome of this fight could set the stage for future title opportunities in the featherweight division.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! The undercard is stacked with rising stars and prospects, including Lindolfo Delgado and Richard Torrez Jr. Keep an eye on these talented fighters as they showcase their skills and aim for glory in the ring.

And if you're hungry for more boxing action, mark your calendar for other thrilling matchups on the same night. From Liam Paro vs. Richardson Hitchins to Ryan Rozicki vs. Yamil Alberto Peralta II, the boxing world is buzzing with anticipation for these epic battles.

So grab your snacks, settle into your seat, and get ready for a night of heart-pounding action and unforgettable moments in the world of boxing. Don't miss out on the excitement as these fighters leave it all in the ring for glory and victory!

Teofimo Lopez Jr. may have had a quiet year defending his WBO junior welterweight crown, but he's gearing up for an explosive 2025. Known as "The Takeover," Lopez is eager to dive into big-time fights once again. Recently teaming up with Eddy Reynoso, the renowned coach behind Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, Lopez is ready to take his career to new heights.

In a recent training session in San Diego, Lopez didn't hold back on discussing potential matchups against boxing heavyweights like Devin Haney, Ryan Garcia, and Terence Crawford. Expressing his frustration with Team Haney's lack of response to an offer, Lopez made it clear that he's not one to waste time when it comes to negotiations.

Regarding a possible showdown with Ryan Garcia, Lopez mentioned, "Everything has to make sense. We have to give them something to be interested in. I try to play it fair as best as I can as the king of the division at 140 pounds."

To Terence Crawford, Lopez issued a bold challenge, saying, "Stop being a [expletive] and make the fight at 154 pounds. C'mon, take care of this young kid. Get me out of the ring. Get me out and put me in a stretcher. Everybody just be talking. And to everybody, stop ducking Teofimo."

Reflecting on his training with Reynoso, Lopez shared, "It's been great. Both of them have a good point of view of what they are seeing in me and what I can do. They have both been collaborating very well so far and I can't wait for what's in store."

With Lopez's determination and newfound partnership with Reynoso, the boxing world can expect to witness a whole new version of the champion. Get ready for Lopez's electrifying comeback in 2025!

The featherweight division is a fascinating realm in boxing, where size norms are defied, and fighters of varying statures showcase their skills in surprising ways. From the towering 6ft 1ins Rafael Espinoza to the compact 5ft 2ins Nick Ball, the division is a melting pot of talent that keeps even seasoned observers on their toes.

John Pullman, a seasoned boxing coach, finds the unpredictability of the division thrilling. He marvels at the potential matchup between Ball and Espinoza, emphasizing the diversity of sizes in the featherweight class. With no clear standout emerging, every fight becomes a toss-up, adding to the division's allure.

IBF titleholder Angelo Leo echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the colorful mix of fighters in the division. He emphasizes the need for top-notch preparation, recognizing the competitive landscape within the weight class.

The division's diversity is further highlighted by Hector Fernandez, manager of a former title contender. Fernandez points out the unique characteristics of fighters like Venado Lopez, emphasizing how styles make fights in boxing. With standouts like Nick Ball and Rey Vargas showcasing contrasting approaches, the featherweight division offers a rich tapestry of talent.

Tramaine Williams, a featherweight contender, sheds light on the weight dynamics in the division, where fighters often cut weight to gain a competitive edge. The evolution of weight classes and fighter sizes is noted by veteran cutman Mike Bazzel, underlining the changing landscape of boxing.

As the division gears up for Espinoza's title defense against Robeisy Ramirez, the contrasting styles of the fighters add to the division's intrigue. Coach Marvin Somodio emphasizes the unique mix of boxers and brawlers in the division, making it a compelling space for fight fans.

Malikai Johnson, a regional featherweight fighter, sees the division as a wide-open field, ripe with opportunities for emerging talent. With a history of nurturing stars, the featherweight division continues to draw attention for its willingness to make exciting matchups.

The featherweight division stands as a canvas of contrasting styles and body types, akin to a masterpiece waiting to unfold. The blend of skill, height, and toughness among the fighters adds layers of complexity to the division, making each bout a captivating spectacle.

As the division moves into the future, the unpredictability and excitement it offers remain its defining features. With the potential entry of Naoya Inoue, the division's landscape could see further evolution, promising more thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments for fans to savor.

Oscar Collazo's recent adventure to Saudi Arabia wasn't just a trip; it was a time machine that fast-forwarded his life by "at least three years," he jokes. The 20-hour flight from Puerto Rico to Riyadh was no walk in the park for Collazo. "Man, it hurt a lot," he recalls. But all the travel woes melted away when he returned home with not one but two minimumweight world title belts after defeating Knockout CP Freshmart.

The 27-year-old from Villalba delivered a career-best performance, handing Freshmart his first defeat and solidifying his record to 11-0 with eight knockouts. Despite the physical toll of the fight, Collazo made it look effortless. He dominated Freshmart throughout the match and secured victory with three knockdowns.

Guided by mentor and Hall of Famer Ivan Calderon, Collazo's strategic prowess shone through in the ring. Calderon's advice to always be intelligent and make wise decisions both inside and outside the ring has been invaluable to Collazo. With newfound fame and recognition in Puerto Rico, Collazo is humbled by the support and admiration of his fans.

Named after boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya, Collazo embraces his unique moniker with pride, thanks to his mother's admiration for the Golden Boy. Looking ahead, Collazo's hunger for success is insatiable. He aims to unify all belts in the 105-pound division by 2025 and then conquer the 108-pound weight class.

Collazo's ambition mirrors the legacy of Puerto Rican fighters who strive for greatness. Representing his island is a privilege that Collazo treasures deeply, recognizing the impact Puerto Rican fighters have on the sport's heritage. As he continues his journey to undisputed champion status, Collazo embodies the fighting spirit and determination that define Puerto Rican boxing.

Stepping into the ring with a shot at the IBF junior welterweight title against Liam Paro in Puerto Rico, Richardson Hitchins is living every boxer's dream. The upcoming fight promises to be a thrilling showdown that fans won't want to miss, airing on DAZN.

In his last bout against Gustavo Lemos, Hitchins faced a tough challenge, narrowly clinching a unanimous decision victory in a fight that had many questioning the outcome. Reflecting on his performance, Hitchins didn't shy away from criticizing himself, acknowledging the shortcomings in his approach to the fight.

Hitchins expressed his determination to make a mark in the division, aiming to challenge other champions like Teofimo Lopez Jnr, Jose Valenzuela, and Alberto Puello once he secures the title. With a strong belief in his abilities, he is focused on unifying the division and bringing glory back to New York City with a title defense.

Looking ahead, Hitchins is eager to prove himself against top-tier opponents and solidify his position as a world champion. His journey in boxing has been one of overcoming challenges and striving for greatness, a narrative that continues to unfold with each fight.

As Hitchins gears up for his title bout, the boxing world eagerly anticipates the outcome of this high-stakes showdown, where dreams will either be realized or shattered in the ring.

Get ready for an epic showdown as rising star Shakur Stevenson and challenger Floyd Schofield gear up to battle it out for Stevenson’s coveted WBC lightweight title.

Rumors had been swirling that these two fierce fighters could share the spotlight on the undercard of the anticipated Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 22. And, according to Schofield’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya, the young 22-year-old Schofield has officially accepted the terms of the bout.

De La Hoya, the mastermind behind Golden Boy Promotions, who recently orchestrated Gilberto Ramirez’s triumph over Chris Billam-Smith at the same venue, took to social media to announce the exciting news. He proclaimed, “Kid Austin is officially the most badass prospect fighter today. Kid officially accepts to fight Shakur Stevenson let’s go!”

Not to be outdone, Schofield, hailing from Austin, confidently declared, “We got the contract… done deal.”

Stevenson, 27, who was originally set to face off against William Zepeda (another Golden Boy fighter), expressed his enthusiasm to De La Hoya, saying, “Finally you talking some sense. Him first, then I knock Zepeda off next. Sorry in advance, my guy – you are a legend to me in the boxing ring!”

Excitement is building as the General Entertainment Authority promises to unveil more details about the upcoming promotion following Oleksandr Usyk-Tyson Fury II on December 21. While there were murmurs about a potential face-off between Vergil Ortiz Jnr and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, it seems that matchup will not be happening on this particular card. Stay tuned for more updates on this fast-paced and action-packed journey in the world of boxing!

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as the talented Adam Azim gears up to face off against Sergey Lipinets from Kazakhstan on February 1! Known for his impressive victory over Ohara Davies last October, the 22-year-old rising star is set to prove himself once again in the boxing ring. This upcoming match, expected to take place in London, will mark Azim's 13th fight and his biggest challenge yet.

Lipinets, a seasoned 35-year-old fighter, has faced tough opponents like Mikey Garcia, Jaron "Boots" Ennis, and Michel Rivera, showcasing his resilience in the ring. While Lipinets has a formidable record, Azim, the reigning European champion in the junior welterweight division, is determined to secure another victory.

The decision to pit Azim against Lipinets reflects a bold matchmaking strategy employed by his trainer Shane McGuigan and manager Barry McGuigan, who have guided the careers of renowned fighters like Carl Frampton and Josh Taylor.

In another exciting matchup, Viddal Riley is poised to take on Isaac Chamberlain if he emerges victorious against Steve Eloundou Ntere in Liverpool on December 14. McGuigan hinted at plans for early next year, emphasizing the importance of facing formidable opponents to elevate Riley's career.

McGuigan highlighted the significance of Riley's experiences in handling media scrutiny and external pressures, noting that these challenges are vital for growth in the competitive world of boxing. By seeking out tough and talkative opponents, McGuigan aims to prepare his fighters for high-stakes bouts where they must prove their mettle.

Get ready for a clash of titans as Azim and Lipinets prepare to battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling match-up of skill, determination, and heart!

After clinching a hard-earned victory over Regis Prograis in a challenging bout, Jack Catterall is gearing up for an eventful 2025. Despite battling through damaged ribs and a nasty cold during his preparation, Catterall managed to showcase his resilience in the ring.

Reflecting on his recent victory, Catterall acknowledged the tough nature of the fight, admitting, "I don't think it was my greatest performance, but I got the victory." The 31-year-old boxer emphasized his confidence in his skills and strategy to overcome the former world champion, Prograis.

The fight against Prograis marked a significant milestone as the first boxing event at the new Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester, England. With notable wins against Jorge Linares and Josh Taylor, Catterall has solidified his position as one of Britain's top boxing attractions.

While seeking recognition for his hard work and dedication to the sport, Catterall remains focused on his ultimate goal of securing a world title belt. As he looks ahead to his next bout in February, which may potentially involve a showdown with Arnold Barboza, Catterall is cautious in his approach, weighing his options before committing to a path.

With the possibility of a world title shot on the horizon, Catterall is determined to pursue his dream while navigating the unpredictable landscape of boxing. As he awaits the unfolding of future opportunities, Catterall remains steadfast in his pursuit of boxing glory.

Rick Mirigian, the manager of Vergil Ortiz Jnr, finds himself in a reflective mood as he comes to terms with the disappointment of the scrapped fight against Jaron "Boots" Ennis. The much-anticipated showdown, initially set for the February 22 Riyadh Season event, is now off the table, eliciting a mix of frustration and criticism from Mirigian.

The unraveling of the fight commenced following Ennis' recent victory over Karen Chukhadzhian, where Ennis hinted at a potential move up to junior middleweight. Mirigian, disheartened by these developments, emphasized the significance of Ennis' and his team's prior statements regarding the weight class. Mirigian expressed his disappointment, stating, "Of course, the weight was not an issue... Just go back and listen to them all!"

Mirigian believed the fight with Ennis was a real possibility, considering Ennis as a unique talent in the sport. However, the turn of events left him feeling let down as he reflected on the missed opportunity. "The worst part of this all is that a fighter, his trainer, and his promoter publicly called out Vergil multiple times... and claimed to have made us an offer – which was a lie."

The fallout from the failed negotiations left Mirigian lamenting the lost potential of what could have been a historic fight. He emphasized that Ortiz had shown willingness to make the fight happen, contrasting Ennis' apparent reluctance. The confusion surrounding the situation centered on the weight class dilemma, with Ennis holding the IBF welterweight title and Ortiz unable to compete in that weight division.

Ennis, addressing the situation on social media, distanced himself from alleged negotiations and hinted at a decision regarding his weight class in the future. This public back-and-forth and private misunderstandings between the two camps soured any chances of a future matchup, at least for the foreseeable future.

Mirigian concluded by asserting that Vergil would not engage in such negotiations again, implying that Ennis may have missed his shot at facing Ortiz. The fallout from this episode may have lasting implications on how Ennis is perceived by the public in the boxing world.

In the final analysis, the saga of the Ortiz-Ennis bout serves as a cautionary tale in the world of boxing negotiations, where miscommunication and differing priorities can lead to missed opportunities and damaged reputations.