Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has become one of the most talked-about fighters of 2023, reaching new heights of superstardom as he ventured into the world of boxing. Although the Cameroonian has returned to MMA, Ngannou is not finished with boxing just yet and has named potential opponents for his return to the ring.

‘The Predator’ established himself as one of the hardest punchers in UFC history, racking up an impressive 10 knockouts in his 12 wins within the promotion. However, he made headlines when he became the first reigning UFC champion to switch promotions since 2004, signing with the Professional Fighter’s League (PFL), which allowed him to explore professional boxing first.

Ngannou made a splash in the boxing world when he stepped into the ring against then-WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, taking on the monumental underdog role in what many viewed as a mismatch. To everyone’s surprise, Ngannou provided one of the most shocking moments in combat sports history by dropping ‘The Gypsy King’ before ultimately losing a controversial split decision.

Just months later, Ngannou returned to the boxing ring to face Anthony Joshua, but the fight concluded in a manner many anticipated, with ‘AJ’ scoring a decisive knockout within just two rounds.

Now, as Ngannou prepares for his first MMA fight in nearly three years, he is already eyeing a return to boxing. In an interview with the MMA Club, he expressed interest in fighting heavyweight knockout artist Deontay Wilder. “I don’t have a name now [who I would like to fight]. I think it depends on the landscape [when I return], but why not a name like [Deontay] Wilder or a rematch with Fury? I don’t know. I am down for everything that makes sense,” Ngannou stated. “He [Wilder] is a very good name that I would be interested in.”

Ngannou is set to face PFL heavyweight champion Renan Ferreira in his debut with the organization this Saturday, with the full card available for purchase and live viewing on DAZN Pay-Per-View.

#FrancisNgannou #BoxingComeback #DeontayWilder #TysonFury #PFL #MMA #HeavyweightDivision #CombatSports #KnockoutArtist #Superstardom

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Artur Beterbiev made history on Saturday by defeating Dmitry Bivol to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion, but the victory wasn’t without its controversies. Many observers had differing opinions on the outcome, with some scoring it for Beterbiev, others for Bivol, and some calling it a draw. Given the contentious nature of the decision, a rematch appears likely, with Bivol already requesting another shot at Beterbiev—a move that boxing fans are generally in favor of.

With Beterbiev now holding all the belts in the light heavyweight division, he’s become a highly sought-after champion. Alongside Bivol, other fighters are eagerly positioning themselves for a shot at the title. One notable name is undefeated light heavyweight contender David Benavidez, who has held the WBC interim light heavyweight title since June 2024. The former WBC super middleweight champion boasts a perfect record of 29 wins and is looking to add more championships to his collection.

The Beterbiev vs. Bivol fight was compelling not only for its high stakes but also because both fighters entered the ring undefeated. A matchup featuring another pair of undefeated fighters—Beterbiev and Benavidez—would undoubtedly capture the attention of boxing fans.

Speaking to ProBox TV, Jose Benavidez Sr., David's father and trainer, outlined their ambitions. "David’s next fight is against David Morrell on January 25th," he confirmed. "Everyone is super excited about it. We’ve been trying to make that fight for three years, but I believe David Morrell needed a little more experience to show the world that he deserves this fight. David called him and said, ‘Hey, I want to make this fight. Let’s make it happen.’ It got made right away."

Looking ahead, Benavidez Sr. has his sights set firmly on Beterbiev. "Hopefully, we can get an opportunity to fight Beterbiev. He just won on Saturday, so hopefully, we can get that, but right now, we’re focused on David Morrell. We need to look impressive to move to the next level."

However, several factors could influence whether a Beterbiev vs. Benavidez matchup becomes a reality. If Beterbiev loses a rematch with Bivol, it could reshape the landscape of the division. Similarly, if Benavidez cannot overcome Morrell, who is also undefeated, it could alter his plans significantly.

For now, it seems that David Benavidez and his team are keenly focused on Artur Beterbiev as a potential opponent. If the stars align, this fight would be a highly intriguing matchup for boxing fans around the world.

#ArturBeterbiev #DavidBenavidez #DmitryBivol #BoxingNews #LightHeavyweight #UndefeatedFighters #BoxingFans #ChampionshipFight #CombatSports #SportsUpdates

The super-bantamweight division continues to heat up as Naoya Inoue, one of boxing's brightest stars, is on the brink of announcing his next opponent. However, a looming legal battle may overshadow the excitement. Inoue, who has rapidly transitioned from bantamweight to become a two-division undisputed champion, appears set to face Australia's undefeated Sam Goodman (19-0) on Christmas Eve in Tokyo.

Goodman has earned his place as the WBO and IBF mandatory challenger, and his clash with "The Monster" has been in the works for weeks. But WBA mandatory challenger Murodjon Akhmadaliev and his team have thrown a wrench into those plans, threatening legal action if Inoue bypasses him once again. Akhmadaliev, who had stepped aside for Inoue's previous bout against TJ Doheny, is now demanding his turn at the titles.

His attorney, Patrick English, sent a formal objection to the IBF, stating Akhmadaliev’s right to be the next in line as the long-overdue WBA mandatory challenger. The ultimatum is clear: either Inoue faces Akhmadaliev, or the WBA title may be vacated, which would see Akhmadaliev automatically elevated to champion status.

Inoue’s team, led by promoter Bob Arum, had originally intended for a busy schedule with the potential U.S. return for Inoue in 2024. However, Akhmadaliev’s interference might force the Japanese star to choose between maintaining his undisputed status or fighting the undefeated Goodman as planned. Either way, boxing fans are eager to see how this situation unfolds, as both Akhmadaliev and Goodman pose serious threats to Inoue’s dominant reign.

With the legal battle brewing, one thing is for certain: Naoya Inoue’s next step will have far-reaching consequences for the super-bantamweight division and his legacy as a multi-division undisputed champion.

#NaoyaInoue #BoxingNews #SuperBantamweight #Akhmadaliev #SamGoodman #InoueVsGoodman #BoxingChampionship #WBA #IBF #WBO #UndisputedChampion #CombatSports #PoundForPound #FightNight #BoxingDrama

The Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois rematch is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated fights of 2025. Their first encounter in September shocked many, as Dubois' victory came in devastating fashion, surprising those who had expected an easy win for Joshua as part of his comeback toward another shot at the undisputed heavyweight title.

With the rematch on the horizon, several intriguing questions emerge. Will another loss signal the end of Anthony Joshua's career? Could a second victory for Dubois catapult him into a clash with Oleksandr Usyk for further unification? And, if Joshua wins, will a trilogy fight be next to settle the score?

What is certain, however, is that a rematch is inevitable, especially given the interest from fans and the significance of the stakes involved.

Turki Alalshikh recently confirmed his preferred date for the rematch, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will take place on that exact day. The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has set a deadline, ensuring that the fight happens within a specific timeframe.

Why is the IBF stepping in with a deadline? The answer lies in Daniel Dubois' status as the current IBF world heavyweight champion. As champion, he has a mandatory fight due by June 21, 2025, and he needs to conclude any optional defenses at least 60 days before that, which means the last possible date for the Joshua rematch is April 22, 2025.

This means the pressure is on for all parties to finalize the rematch by April, with many expecting an announcement well before then. If Turki Alalshikh’s preferred timeline is followed, we could see the rematch happen in February. Regardless, the rematch cannot go beyond the April deadline imposed by the IBF, so expect to see developments soon.

Meanwhile, the buzz around the rematch leaves many wondering who Fabio Wardley will face next following his stunning first-round knockout of Frazer Clarke. Wardley’s win cements his position in the British heavyweight scene, and fans are eager to see what challenges await him in 2025.

#JoshuaDuboisRematch #AJvsDubois #AnthonyJoshua #DanielDubois #HeavyweightBoxing #Boxing2025 #IBFTitle #TurkiAlalshikh #WardleyKnockout #FrazerClarke #BoxingRematch

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The controversial YouTuber and boxer, Jake Paul, has responded with a countersuit in the ongoing legal battle with British promoter Eddie Hearn. This comes two years after Hearn filed a $100 million defamation lawsuit against Paul.

TMZ Sports reported that Paul claims Hearn’s lawsuit is baseless and an attempt to silence his right to free speech. Paul labeled Hearn’s lawsuit as “complete nonsense,” arguing that he doesn’t owe the British promoter a single penny. Furthermore, he stated that he should be the one receiving compensatory and punitive damages, as well as coverage of legal fees resulting from the lawsuit.

The countersuit documents claim that “any alleged damages are vague, uncertain, imaginary, and/or speculative,” discrediting the arguments presented by Hearn’s legal team. According to Paul, his statements neither defamed nor caused any real harm to Hearn or his company.

Additionally, sources close to Paul say that when Hearn’s team contacted him after the controversy, the boxer agreed to remove the interview where he made the controversial statements. Despite this gesture, Hearn chose to proceed with the defamation lawsuit. Paul’s team insists that the boxer will not give in to Hearn’s intimidation tactics.

The dispute between the two began in April 2022, following the fight between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor. On that occasion, Serrano was represented by Jake Paul through Most Valuable Promotions, losing to Taylor, who was promoted by Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. After the fight, Paul insinuated that the judges had been bribed to favor Taylor, which led Hearn to file the defamation lawsuit.The Ring magazine publishes its Top 10 Pound-for-Pound

Jake Paul is scheduled to face Mike Tyson on November 15, 2024, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Likewise, Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will be competing in a rematch on the same card. It is worth noting that Hearn has heavily criticized the fight between Tyson and Paul, stating that he will only watch the Taylor and Serrano fight before leaving.‼️ Jake Paul is reportedly now counter-suing Eddie Hearn, claiming Hearn’s defamation lawsuit over him accusing Matchroom of paying judge Glenn Feldman in 2022 is an attempt to silence his right to free speech using intimidation tactics. In his defence, Paul states: “The…

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 15, 2024

In a recent video of his YouTube channel “Froch on Fighting,” Carl Froch

Froch mentioned that, despite Eubank Jr. being a good boxer, he does not have enough ring activity to improve. According to Froch, fighting only once a year is not enough to stay competitive. In his last fight, even though Eubank Jr. secured a victory, Froch pointed out that his performance was disorganized, exposing several weaknesses, such as leaving his chin unprotected and receiving too many punches. This, according to Froch, reinforces his belief that Eubank Jr. is not ready for the world stage.

“He showed that he’s a bit disorganized, not fit for the world level.”

Froch also criticized Eubank Jr.’s apparent lack of interest in becoming a world champion. Instead, he argued that Eubank Jr. seems more interested in earning money in the easiest way possible and enjoying his celebrity status. Froch referenced Eubank Jr.’s friendship with footballer Neymar and his tendency to participate in activities like poker and other events outside of boxing.

“I don’t think he’s that interested in becoming a world champion, he just wants to make money.”Eubank Jr.’s Approach to Big Fights

Despite the criticism, Froch acknowledged that Eubank Jr. has the potential to generate significant earnings from high-profile fights, specifically mentioning a possible bout against Conor Benn. For Froch, this fight would be highly lucrative, perhaps even taking place in Saudi Arabia, though he expressed his desire for it to happen in Britain due to the

“Let’s be honest, he’s not good enough for the world level, and that’s why I mentioned Conor Benn, because that’s the big fight, it could be the big money fight. It could probably even happen in Saudi Arabia too. I’d love to see it in Britain, because Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr. have that history, and it would be nice to see these two fight in Britain, but we’ll see,” Froch said.

Froch also expressed concern over Conor Benn’s recent behavior. According to him, Benn talks as though he is already an elite fighter, but his record does not back up that confidence. Froch emphasized that Benn hasn’t fought in Britain for several years and, though his style is exciting, he has yet to face top-tier opponents.

“First, I want to say I know Conor Benn, I’ve seen him a few times and he’s a lovely guy, a charming young man.”Fabio Wardley gets updated world ranking following Frazer Clarke demolition

“When I say charming, it’s not just for show, obviously he’s a fighter, he wants to get in the ring, cause damage, knock his opponent out, and he fights excitingly. But he hasn’t fought anyone, and he talks like he’s a street killer, and I don’t get it. I get that he has to sell the fight and try to hype it up, but the fight is already there, it’s Eubank versus Benn, or Benn versus Eubank, the names are already there,” Froch stated.Carl Froch Talk about the challenges for Conor Benn in the fight

Regarding the potential fight between Benn and Eubank Jr., Froch warned that it could be more difficult than Benn expects. He pointed out that Benn would have to move up to 160 pounds to face Eubank Jr., who is naturally bigger and stronger. Though Benn has expressed confidence, saying he will easily defeat Eubank Jr., Froch suggested the young fighter should be more cautious with his words. According to Froch, Eubank Jr. is a tough opponent who has shown resilience in the past, something Benn might be underestimating.

“Benn has to go up to 160 pounds. I think it will cost Conor Benn against Chris Eubank at 160. Eubank can hit hard, he’s quite tough. I’ve sparred with him many times, and he’s given me good rounds. Chris Eubank Jr. is tough in the ring.”

“Conor Benn talks like this fight is easy, like it’s a mismatch and that he’s going to destroy him. I get that he has to sell the fight, but be careful what you wish for.” When you’re there and reality hits you in the head and face, and Eubank Jr. starts throwing punches and leaning on you with his extra weight, because he’s naturally bigger, this could be tougher than Benn thinks.

Froch also expressed skepticism over Benn’s recent inactivity and questioned the circumstances surrounding his drug tests and his current status with the British Boxing Board of Control, which has yet to grant Benn a license to fight in the UK.

“I understand Eddie Hearn is trying to sell it, saying it will be an easy fight for Benn, but I don’t see where he gets that confidence. Benn hasn’t been active, he hasn’t fought anyone.” “And can you answer me something? What’s going on with the drug testing? Is he suspended? Is he serving a ban? Because as far as I know, he still doesn’t have a license from the British Boxing Board of Control to fight, he still can’t box.”

Despite his criticism of both Eubank Jr. and Benn, Carl Froch made it clear that he is excited about the potential fight between the two. He said he would like the fight to take place in Britain. Although he recognizes the limitations of both fighters, Froch believes the history and rivalry between their families make this an attractive matchup. However, Froch stressed that Benn needs to be more active in his career and clarify his legal situation before the fight can be confirmed.

As the countdown to their IBF championship fight continues, Tim Tszyu has expressed doubts about Bakhram Murtazaliev’s weight status. This highly anticipated showdown will take place on Sunday, October 20, in Orlando, and Tszyu’s words have drawn attention.

The Russian-Australian boxer revealed that he has seen Murtazaliev training intensely. In a recent conversation, Tszyu mentioned having spotted the champion running at night wearing a hoodie. This image has led some to speculate that Murtazaliev might be struggling to make the required weight.

Bakhram Murtazaliev, an imposing 183 cm champion, has stated his intention to move up a weight class after his fight with Tim Tszyu. In an interview with Main Event Australia, the Russian champion mentioned that he could face WBA middleweight champion Erislandy Lara next. This statement has raised more questions about his approach to weight and his preparation for the fight.

With a joking tone, Murtazaliev included UFC megastar Conor McGregor on his list of possible opponents. The champion referred to Tszyu as a boxer with “many mistakes,” underlining his confidence before the fight. Despite his light-hearted remarks, Murtazaliev made it clear that he is focused on defending his title.As the fight draws closer, Murtazaliev has labeled Tim Tszyu as a fighter who “talks a lot online.”

The champion also emphasized that the presence of Tim’s father, Kostya Tszyu, will not affect the outcome. “It doesn’t matter who is going to be there. It makes no difference if Kostya Tszyu is there or not,” Murtazaliev stated.

Discussing his view of the fight, Murtazaliev pointed out that he has identified several openings in Tszyu’s fighting style. He also expects to add Tszyu to his list of victories, which includes 10 years of experience and 22 fights. “The easy option after this win would be a fight with Conor McGregor,” Murtazaliev joked.Jai Opetaia reveals future plans

However, the champion has more serious goals in mind. He has expressed his desire to unify belts and fight top names like Sebastian Fundora, Errol Spence, or Terence Crawford. He is also interested in moving up in weight to face Erislandy Lara.

The issue of weight will become more pressing this week in Orlando. According to IBF regulations, both boxers must weigh in twice, including the day of the fight. They must be within a 10-pound limit of the division’s weight for the bout.

In a conversation with Ben Damon of Main Event, Tszyu

When asked about the IBF stipulations, Tim Tszyu appeared confident. “I’ve done a little bit of training towards it,” he stated. “The morning of the fight I’m just a little over the rehydration limit so I’ll be sweet.”

Anthony Yarde, a prominent light heavyweight boxer, returns to the ring on Saturday, October 19. He will face Ralfs “The Train” Vilcans at the Copper Box Arena in London. This fight will be part of the preliminary card for the match between Adam Azim and Ohara Davies.

“For me, it’s activity, getting back in the ring, being active, and entertaining boxing fans,” Yarde said in an interview with Sky Sports. With a record of 25 wins and 3 losses, Yarde is a former two-time world title challenger and ranks first in the WBO standings.

His last fight was against undefeated champion Artur Beterbiev in January 2023. Despite the loss, Yarde has achieved stoppage victories over Jorge Silva and Marko Nikolic. Yarde’s most recent bout was on February 10 against Nikolic in London, UK. He won in the 3rd round by Technical Knockout. Now, he aims to regain his place in the title contention.

Ralfs Vilcans, 30 years old with a record of 17-1, is a former WBC international light heavyweight. Known as “The Train,” he will seek to derail Anthony Yarde’s plans.

Additionally, the card features exciting matchups. Dan Azeez will face Lewis Edmondson in a crucial light heavyweight clash. Michael McKinson will compete for the vacant IBO world welterweight title against Tulani Mbenge. Also highlighted are the fights of Shannon Courtenay, Francesca Hennessy, and the professional debut of Sam Hickey.Shane Mosley compares Floyd Mayweather and Canelo AlvarezWho is Anthony Yarde fighting when he returns to the ring on Saturday? 👀 pic.twitter.com/qfOemcHGh5

— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) October 15, 2024

Opponent 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙙 🦁✅@mranthonyyarde returns to the ring this Saturday at The Copper Box! Don’t miss it 🍿

Tickets at https://t.co/yt3WMVlLFj 🎟️#AzimDavies | 19.10.24 | @CopperBoxArena | @SkySportsBoxing | @peacock | @GoldenBoyBoxingpic.twitter.com/AyLfuSXMqU

— BOXXER (@boxxer) October 15, 2024

The Ring magazine has recently revealed its prestigious list of the best Pound-for-Pound boxers in the world, with Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk taking the top spot. This publication, known for its divisional rankings since 1925, is widely respected by boxing fans and experts globally. The selection was made by a panel of twelve experts, who debate and democratically decide the positions of each boxer.Oleksandr Usyk Tops the List

Oleksandr Usyk sits at number one of The Ring magazine’s ranking, boasting an impeccable record of 22-0 (14 KOs). Usyk, a gold medalist at the 2012 Olympics, dominated the cruiserweight division, defeating opponents such as Krzysztof Glowacki, Marco Huck, and Tony Bellew. In his transition to heavyweight, he stood out by beating Anthony Joshua twice, solidifying his reign as the undisputed champion of the division. Recently, Usyk knocked out Daniel Dubois and defeated Tyson Fury in a closely contested split decision. His next challenge will be a rematch against Fury on December 21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Naoya Inoue: The “Monster” from Japan in Second Place

Naoya Inoue, with an impressive record of 27-0 (24 KOs), holds the second position. Nicknamed “The Monster,” he has captured world titles in four different weight classes, from 108 to 122 pounds. Inoue gained worldwide recognition after his victories over Nonito Donaire in two thrilling bouts. Recently, Inoue became the undisputed junior bantamweight champion after defeating Stephen Fulton and Marlon Tapales. His next fight is expected to be against TJ Doheny in Tokyo, Japan.Terence Crawford: Master of the Ring

Terence Crawford, with a record of 41-0 (31 KOs), is in third place. This talented American boxer has been the undisputed champion in two weight classes, 140 and 147 pounds. Crawford made headlines by defeating Errol Spence Jr., unifying the welterweight world titles. His most recent victory was against Israil Madrimov, where he won the WBA junior middleweight title. Although he hoped to face Canelo Álvarez, Crawford seems to be exploring other options in the 154-pound division.Canelo Álvarez and His Undisputed Legacy

Canelo Álvarez is fourth of The Ring magazine’s ranking, with a record of 61-2-2 (39 KOs). The Mexican has defeated prominent boxing figures such as Shane Mosley, Gennadiy Golovkin, and Caleb Plant. Although he lost to Dmitry Bivol in 2022, Canelo has bounced back, defeating Jermell Charlo and Jaime Munguía in his most recent fights. His next opponent will be Edgar Berlanga, whom he will face in Las Vegas on September 14.Jesse Rodríguez: The Rising Young Talent

In fifth place is Jesse Rodríguez (20-0, 13 KOs). The American captured the attention of the boxing world by defeating Carlos Cuadras and Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on his way to becoming world champion. Rodríguez has proven to be a formidable contender in the smaller divisions, and his future may include a showdown against Fernando Martínez later this year.Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol: The Light Heavyweight Giants

Artur Beterbiev (20-0, 20 KOs), in sixth place, remains undefeated and has knocked out all his opponents. His next fight will be a title unification against Dmitry Bivol (23-0, 12 KOs), who ranks seventh. Both will face off on October 12 in Saudi Arabia to determine the undisputed light heavyweight champion.Gervonta Davis and Junto Nakatani: Power and Technique

Gervonta Davis (30-0, 28 KOs) occupies the eighth spot. The charismatic American boxer is known for his incredible knockout power and ability to sell out arenas across the United States. In ninth place is Junto Nakatani (28-0, 21 KOs), the talented Japanese fighter who recently became the world bantamweight champion by defeating Vincent Astrolabio.Devin Haney Rounds Out the Top 10

In tenth place is Devin Haney (31-0, 15 KOs), who at 25 has been the undisputed lightweight champion and recently captured the WBC super lightweight title by defeating Regis Prograis. Although he has gone through controversy with Ryan García, he remains one of the most promising young talents in the sport.Boxers on the Brink of the Top 10

Among the names that were close to entering the prestigious ranking are David Benavidez, Vasiliy Lomachenko, Shakur Stevenson, Jai Opetaia, and Kenshiro Teraji, who could appear in future editions of The Ring magazine’s ranking.📋 Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol have both now leapfrogged Canelo Alvarez in the Ring Magazine pound-for-pound top ten:

1️⃣🇺🇦 Oleksandr Usyk 2️⃣🇯🇵 Naoya Inoue 3️⃣🇺🇸 Terence Crawford 4️⃣🇷🇺 Artur Beterbiev 5️⃣🇷🇺 Dmitry Bivol 6️⃣🇲🇽 Canelo Alvarez 7️⃣🇺🇸 Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez 8️⃣🇺🇸…

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 15, 2024

In an interview with FightHype, legendary boxer Shane Mosley spoke about the punching power of Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Canelo Álvarez. When asked about his experience facing both fighters, Mosley did not hesitate to compare the strength of their punches.

“When I fought Floyd, his power was really good. His power is actually around the same speed and power as Canelo’s” Mosley commented. This statement is relevant, as Mosley faced and was defeated by both boxers at crucial moments in their respective careers.The Mosley vs. Mayweather fight

Shane Mosley and Floyd Mayweather faced off on May 1, 2010, in a highly anticipated welterweight bout. The fight, promoted as “Who RU Picking?”, took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in front of a crowd of 15,117 people. Although no titles were at stake, the expectations were high, as two of the biggest figures in world boxing were going head-to-head.

Mayweather dominated the fight from the start. The judges awarded him a unanimous decision victory. Two judges scored the fight 119-109, and one scored it 118-110, reflecting the control that “Money” Mayweather maintained throughout most of the rounds. Mosley, who had been considered one of Mayweather’s most dangerous opponents, managed to land some significant punches, but it wasn’t enough to change the course of the fight.

The fight was significant not only because of Mayweather’s victory, but also due to the presence of boxing legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, who attended the event. This fight materialized after Andre Berto, who was originally scheduled to fight Mosley, withdrew from their planned January 2010 bout.Shane Mosley vs. Canelo Álvarez

Two years later, on May 5, 2012, Shane Mosley faced a young Mexican prospect, Canelo Álvarez. This fight also took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Álvarez, who was defending his WBC super welterweight title, was already establishing himself as a future boxing superstar.

On this occasion, Mosley couldn’t do much against the power and skill of the young Canelo. The judges rendered a unanimous decision in favor of the Mexican, with scores of 119-109, 118-110, and 119-108. Álvarez’s decisive victory solidified his rise in the elite ranks of boxing, while Mosley, though resilient, could not match the intensity of the champion.

With these statements, Mosley offers a unique perspective on two of the most important boxers of the modern era. His experience facing both in the ring gives him an authoritative voice to compare their styles and skills, making it clear that, although different, both Mayweather and Canelo

— Ray Bama (@armoredmaybach) October 15, 2024

Artur Beterbiev’s light-heavyweight showdown with Dmitry Bivol delivered as the legendary encounter that many predicted beforehand but it was Fabio Wardley and Ben Whittaker who stole the show on the undercard – for both good and bad reasons. Now, with Wardley poised to make the jump to the world level, one of his countrymen has called for him to make one last defence of his British heavyweight title.

Wardley knocked out Nathan Gorman to pick up the vacant Lonsdale Belt back in November 2022 but since then he has proven himself to be worthy of the fabled trinket, despite entering the professional ranks without any amateur experience.

The Ipswich fan-favourite comfortably dominated and then halted David Adeleye on the Fury-Ngannou card in Riyadh last October, although it was a draw against Frazer Clarke that saw his superstardom reach new heights.

Wardley went to war with the Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist in the headline attraction at the O2 Arena on Easter Sunday, representing boxers from a white-collar background and doing them proud in a gruelling display that will likely be a fight of the year candidate.

At the weekend, Wardley and Clarke stepped through the ropes for a salivating rematch but this time around the contest was far more one-sided, as Wardley cracked the jaw of his rival in the opening round with a devastating right-hook that left Clarke unconscious, mouth agape and requiring surgery.One of the most vicious KOs I’ve ever seen. Look at the side of Clarke’s head. Also, look at his mouth. Emphatic display by Fabio Wardley. Sheesh. 🎥 @DAZNBoxingpic.twitter.com/OxLPNSnp28

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 13, 2024

As a result, Wardley is now being left with the decision of whether he should opt to remain as the British champion and attempt the fourth championship contest victory that would see him the belt outright or alternatively attempt to capitalize on his newfound fame and make the jump to the world stage.

However, whilst many believe there to be a lack of remaining contenders for Wardley at the British level, English heavyweight champion Solomon Dacres told that he would relish the opportunity.Ben Whittaker is detained at airport

“He might go on and vacate but I am still trying to get on his tail, man.

“Hopefully [he is interested in winning the belt outright], I am all systems go for that one. Hopefully it would be something that we could get on.”

Although the Birmingham-born heavyweight is well poised for the belt if it were to be vacated, Dacres went on to admit that he would rather defeat the champion for the title, especially considering his belief that Wardley is tailor-made for his style.

“You’ve got to beat the champion to be the champion and that is what we want.”

“He is not the most technical boxer, but he can punch a bit and he is a game. He seems to have a bit of power, and he seems to have a bit of fighting spirit about him – which is something that you can’t take away from someone in the pro game.

“He is doing well for himself, especially coming from a white-collar background, but I just feel like I can be the one to give him a boxing lesson.”

Wardley has now been given an updated world ranking and it remains to be seen whether he will decline the allure of the biggest names in the division in favour of his goal to keep ahold of the illustrious British heavyweight title.

This time last week, British fight fans were anticipating yet another fight of the year candidate from Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke who were scheduled to meet for a second time after their enthralling Easter Sunday encounter ended in a draw. Yet, the contest played out much different this time around and Wardley has received an updated world ranking as a result.

Wardley and Clarke famously battled to a split-draw when they met at the end of March, topping the bill at the O2 Arena in one of the most captivating British title contests within recent memory.

As a result, the announcement that the pair would meet again on the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol undercard was met with jubilation, as domestic fans predicted a similarly close-fought affair – with the victor likely to progress to the world stage in the near future.

However, Fabio Wardley had other plans and took the fight to the Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist from the sound of the opening bell onwards, landing a prodigious right-hook that cracked the jaw and dented the head of Clarke in the opening-round, rendering him unable to continue.One of the most vicious KOs I’ve ever seen. Look at the side of Clarke’s head. Also, look at his mouth. Emphatic display by Fabio Wardley. Sheesh. 🎥 @DAZNBoxingpic.twitter.com/OxLPNSnp28

— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 13, 2024

The authoritative display has seen Wardley receive plenty of plaudits, not only for his aggression but for his punch power, with many believing him to be amongst the hardest punchers in the division – as supported by his record of 17 KOs in 18 victories.Junto Nakatani retains WBC bantamweight title as Naoya Inoue pursuit continues

Whilst Clarke left the ring requiring surgery, Wardley stepped outside of the squared circle pondering who is next and whether he should stick around to defend his British title on one more occasion to win the Lonsdale Belt outright or focus on positioning himself for the heavyweight world titles, which are expected to become vacated during the aftermath of Fury-Usyk II.

Regardless of the prestige of the fabled British heavyweight title, Wardley may find it difficult to refuse the allure of the world stage, especially now that he has entered the Ring Magazine rankings, coming in at #9.📋 Fabio Wardley has now entered the Ring Magazine heavyweight rankings:

👑🇺🇦 Oleksandr Usyk 1️⃣🇬🇧 Tyson Fury 2️⃣🇬🇧 Daniel Dubois 3️⃣🇳🇿 Joseph Parker 4️⃣🇨🇳 Zhilei Zhang 5️⃣🇩🇪 Agit Kabayel 6️⃣🇨🇩 Martin Bakole 7️⃣🇬🇧 Anthony Joshua 8️⃣🇭🇷 Filip Hrgovic 9️⃣🇬🇧 Fabio Wardley 🔟🇳🇬 Efe Ajagba

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 15, 2024

Amongst the other sanctioning bodies, Fabio Wardley is ranked #12 with the IBF, #8 with the WBC and WBO and with the WBA, although his position with the latter three has not yet been updated following his demolition of Clarke.

Ben Whittaker had taken to the professional scene like a duck to water since making the switch from the amateur ranks, both impressing inside of the ring but also showing his marketability outside of it. However, his latest display was a major cause for concern, as a questionable injury brought the bout to an early end. Now, Whittaker’s promoter has confirmed.

‘The Surgeon’ had won each of his first eight professional outings and has regularly gone viral on social media for both his showboating and his skills despite the one-sided nature of his fights.,

As such, Whittaker has been deemed as a ‘marmite’ character of British boxing, some appreciating his talent and personality whilst others label him as disrespectful and arrogant.

At the weekend, Whittaker faced his toughest test as he made his Saudi Arabia debut against game countryman Liam Cameron, who had lost an eyebrow-raising split-decision to the well-respected Lyndon Arthur a few months prior.

A fight on this platform was anticipated to be the beginning of a fruitful relationship between Whittaker and Saudi boxing catalyst Turki Al-Alshikh, assumably culminating in eventual world title opportunities for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medallist.

However, after finding the expected success in the opening two rounds against Cameron, the ‘Cannonball’ began to take control of he contest and appeared to win rounds three, four and five and was on the verge of pulling off the upset win against the visibly-tired favourite.Dmitry Bivol’s team files protest over Artur Beterbiev decision

Until, Whittaker and Cameron were sent soaring over the top rope and laid out on the canvas in pain – or hope, as some viewers believed.Ben Whittaker vs Liam Cameron has been stopped and can’t go on after both fighters fell over the top rope.. Whittaker seemingly injured his leg and can’t fight on 🥊#BeterbievBivolpic.twitter.com/tqjAxnI7uI

— What's Your Hustle? / BOXING, MMA, & LIFESTYLE (@whatsyourhustl) October 12, 2024

Whittaker and his team claimed that he was unable to continue and he left the arena in a wheelchair as the referee read out the controversial scorecards that resulted in a technical-decision draw, much to the disappointment of Cameron.

In the days that have followed, Whittaker has continued to make headlines for punching a hole in the wall at the Kingdom Arena and then proceeding to smash a fan’s phone at the airport.

Now, Ben Shalom has provided an update on the injury of the IBF International light-heavyweight champion, as per Sky Sports.

“Following the unprecedented incident that ended the match on Saturday night, Ben Whittaker is undergoing further assessments on his neck as a previous injury was aggravated by the fall.

“He also experienced an ankle sprain and will begin a rehab process as soon as he is cleared by doctors and is determined to be back in the ring as soon as possible.”Whilst Cameron is understandably gutted, It’s not all doom and gloom for the Yorkshireman, who has inked a first-ever promotional deal by partnering up with Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, hoping to land the rematch with Whittaker and finish what he started on Saturday night.

Whilst the undisputed light-heavyweight showdown between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol captivated the sport this weekend, Japan played host to a number of intriguing encounters, featuring a phenomenal eight world title fights. However, one of the weekend’s best performers has been dealt with a devastating blow, being handed a one-year ban from the sport.

John Riel Casimero was upgraded from interim champion to fill IBF light-flyweight champion back in 2012 and defended the belt on three occasions, including a win over upcoming Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez opponent Pedro Guevara.

Ahead of a fourth defence against Mauricio Fuentes, Casimero astonishing hit the scales at almost 114lbs, nearly six pounds over the light-flyweight limit, and was consequently stripped of his world title – but went on to score a first-round knockout win.

The Filipino then moved up to flyweight and after an unsuccessful title bid against Amnat Ruenroeng, Casimero scored a knockout win in the rematch to claim the IBF flyweight crown, despite the fact that both Casimero and Ruenroeng missed weight.

After famously halting Charlie Edwards in his lone defence of the title, ‘Quadro Alas’ once again moved up in weight and three years later he would stop Zolani Tete within three rounds to add the WBO bantamweight title to his collection.

At 118lbs, Casimero registered wins over Duke Micah and the legendary Guillermo Rigondeaux to seeming tee-up an undisputed showdown with arguable pound-for-pound number one Naoya Inoue – with Liverpool’s Paul Butler being the only stumbling block.

However, Casimero was once again stripped of his world title after difficulties making the weight for his fight with Butler, who then replaced him as the WBO champion and went on to lose to Inoue in late 2022.

Since then, the 35-year-old has moved up to super-bantamweight and remains in pursuit of a battle with Inoue, hoping to land the fight with the Japanese sensation before his inevitable move up to featherweight.Who next for Fabio Wardley? – Five options following first-round knockout of Clarke

This weekend, Casimero was tasked with Mexico’s former world title challenger Saul Sanchez, but confusion was rife at the weigh-in one again, as Casimero seemingly attempted to tamper with the scales, before official confirmation that he had missed weight once again.John Riel Casimero tried to make weight by holding the scales yesterday. The officials noticed it and he then missed weight.

📽️ @ajoaquinarietapic.twitter.com/dJtV4Jml2x

— Boxing Kingdom (@BoxingKingdom14) October 12, 2024

The fight went ahead regardless and Casimero dismissed Sanchez with ease, a surprisingly comfortable first-round knockout shocking those in attendance.NO WAY!!! JOHN RIEL CASIMERO DESTROYS THE EVER-DURABLE SAUL SANCHEZ IN ROUND 1!!!

IS NAOYA INOUE NEXT?!?!? pic.twitter.com/hr9sqS9ehC

— 𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 (@phillikesfights) October 13, 2024

Yet, the Japanese Boxing Commission have now decided to hand Casimero with a one-year ban, seemingly ending all hopes of a meeting with Inoue, as per Anthony Joaquin Arieta.BREAKING NEWS:

Overweight John Riel Casimero is SUSPENDED for 1 YEAR by the Japanese Boxing Commission.

Expect respective organizations like @WorldBoxingOrg@WBCBoxing@wbcmoro@PacoValcarcel@OlivieriLaw to act on his ratings as well. pic.twitter.com/0zM3B5aM4R

— OLE (@ajoaquinarieta) October 15, 2024

Inoue is expected to proceed with a defence of his undisputed super-bantamweight titles against Australia’s Sam Goodman on December 24th – a featherweight title challenge on the horizon if he comes through Goodman unscathed.

British boxer Ben Whittaker was detained at King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia following a tense encounter with a fan shortly after his unusual draw against Liam Cameron at the Kingdom Arena. The incident occurred last Saturday, where Whittaker, 27, faced Cameron but the match ended unexpectedly in the fifth round due to a leg injury sustained when he fell over the ropes.

After being taken from the ring in a wheelchair to receive medical attention, Whittaker was visibly frustrated, reportedly punching a wall in anger. Despite this, he was later seen walking through airport security in Riyadh with his ankle bandaged.

According to a witness present at the airport, tensions escalated when Whittaker approached a fan attempting to take a photo. The situation quickly intensified, leading Whittaker to snatch the fan's phone and reportedly smash it on the ground. Airport security intervened, detaining both Whittaker and the fan, and both had to surrender their passports temporarily.

Whittaker later expressed his willingness to pay for the damaged phone, and the situation cooled down enough for the two to sit at a nearby café, where they exchanged contact information to resolve the matter amicably. “They literally did it at the Costa or Starbucks in front of everyone,” the witness noted.

Despite showing signs of his recent fight, with bruises and a slight limp due to his injury, Whittaker did not shy away from confronting the fan. Following the incident, he issued an apology, expressing gratitude for the fan's willingness to discuss the situation. “This was a really unfortunate event, and I’m grateful to the gentleman that he sat down to talk about it straight afterward and accepted my apology. We are in touch about replacing his phone and coming along to a future event as our guest,” Whittaker told The Sun.

The match with Liam Cameron ended anticlimactically when both fighters fell over the ropes at the end of the fifth round. While Cameron managed to get back on his feet, Whittaker remained on the canvas, clutching his right leg, which led to the fight being stopped. The judges reached a split decision draw, and Whittaker was wheeled out following the incident.

#BenWhittaker #LiamCameron #BoxingNews #SaudiArabia #KingKhalidInternationalAirport #BoxingIncident

Sandy Ryan and Mikaela Mayer have taken their post-fight rivalry to social media, engaging in a heated exchange that has captured the attention of boxing fans. The clash began after Mayer's comments in a FightPost interview, where she claimed she had hurt Ryan during their bout. Ryan quickly fired back on X (formerly Twitter), denying Mayer's statement and escalating the tension between the two.

Mayer responded to Ryan’s denial with a pointed remark about Ryan throwing up after the fight, to which Ryan replied harshly, calling Mayer a "piece of trash" and accusing her of lying. The back-and-forth intensified as Mayer suggested Ryan had been concussed, while Ryan deflected, shifting focus to an earlier pre-fight incident involving an attack with red paint.

This feud comes after Ryan’s loss to Mayer by majority decision on September 27, 2024, following the controversial paint attack outside Ryan's hotel. Mayer has distanced herself from the attack, expressing frustration over the potential disruption it could have caused to their fight. The online argument underscores the deepening rivalry between the two, with a potential rematch or other big fight opportunities looming for Mayer.

#SandyRyan #MikaelaMayer #BoxingRivalry #FightNight #Rematch #BoxingBeef #WomenInBoxing #FightHype #PreFightDrama #BoxingNews

Sebastian Fundora, who has risen to dominate the super welterweight division, now faces the possibility of losing one of his world titles. This development comes following a decision by the WBO Committee that could dramatically affect his career.

Fundora had initially agreed to make a voluntary title defense, which included a potential unification bout with WBO interim champion Terence Crawford. However, the WBO issued a resolution on October 14, 2024, stating that if Fundora does not meet the outlined conditions, he will risk being stripped of his title.

The WBO’s resolution allows Fundora to defend his title against any contender ranked within their top 15. However, he must unify with Crawford within 180 days. Failure to comply with this timeline will result in Fundora being stripped of his WBO title without the possibility of appeal.

Fundora is now at a crossroads in his career. While he can take on an interim fight before Crawford, missing the WBO’s deadline could cost him one of his prized belts. The Committee’s decision, issued from its Puerto Rico headquarters, underscores the importance of maintaining competitiveness and clarity in the division.

All eyes are now on Fundora as he navigates the delicate balance between defending his title and preserving his status as the unified champion.

Source: Official WBO Resolution @WorldBoxingOrg

#SebastianFundora #WBOChampion #TerenceCrawford #BoxingNews #SuperWelterweight #WBO #WBC #Unification

Heavyweight boxing has its eyes set on a potential rematch between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, with recent comments from fellow contender Zhilei Zhang adding fuel to the fire. In an interview with Seconds Out, Zhang firmly predicted that if a rematch occurs, Dubois will come out on top.

This follows Joshua’s knockout defeat at the hands of Dubois on September 21, where the former champion was stopped in the fifth round. For Joshua, who has long aimed to reclaim his world title for a third time, this loss was a significant setback in his career.

Since that stunning result, both Joshua and Dubois have been mentioned in discussions surrounding future high-profile bouts against names like Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. However, attention now turns to a possible rematch between the two, which could have major implications for their careers.

Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has expressed Joshua’s willingness to take on Dubois again, signaling the former champion’s eagerness for redemption. But Zhang, a rising star in the heavyweight division, has reservations about how Joshua will perform in a second fight.

“I can’t really say I’m disappointed because, as a boxing fan myself, I look at it from a fan’s perspective. Joshua has been on top of the pyramid for years, and when you’re on top of the food chain, that definitely changes your mentality a bit,” Zhang said.

Zhang also questioned Joshua’s mental state following the loss to Dubois. “This defeat, I don’t know where it puts him mentally, but I think the rematch will be a worst-case scenario for Joshua,” Zhang added, pointing to the psychological toll it might take on the former champion.

As anticipation builds, the rematch would undoubtedly be a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters. Joshua will be fighting to redeem his legacy, while Dubois sees another win as an opportunity to firmly establish himself among the heavyweight elite.

Boxing fans now eagerly await an official announcement, wondering how this rematch might shift the dynamics of the heavyweight division. With Zhang backing Dubois for a second victory, the potential rematch between Joshua and Dubois has become one of the most intriguing storylines in boxing.

Source: Interview with Seconds Out

#AnthonyJoshua #DanielDubois #ZhileiZhang #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingNews #JoshuaVsDubois #Rematch

In a recent interview for The Stomping Ground, the boxer and current champion, Jai Opetaia,

Opetaia began the interview by commenting on the odds for the fight. “When I saw the odds for this fight, I want to say I was surprised, and I wasn’t surprised,” he said. The Australian boxer acknowledged that Jack Massey is a great fighter and a tough opponent.Referring to his performance in the ring, Jai Opetaia expressed his respect for Jack Massey.

“He is, brother, tough as nails. You know, he has dangerous power, and he’s a tough guy,” he commented. Despite the difficulty of the bout, the champion felt satisfied with his performance. “It was a good learning curve. You learn a lot from these fights, and I’m excited about the progress,” he explained.

The Australian boxer also reflected on his long journey to reach this point in his career. “I know we can do better. It has been a long journey to get to this ring, brother; this fight has been a rollercoaster,” he recalled. For Jai Opetaia, learning and progress are fundamental to his career. “It’s about learning and progress, so I’m excited about the next fight,” he concluded.

In the interview, Opetaia also highlighted the growth of boxing in Australia. “Australian boxing is growing enormously. There are so many great fighters coming out of our area and from New Zealand and the Pacific Islands,” he stated. The champion emphasized the importance of opening opportunities for other boxers. “I feel like it will really open doors for people from our area,” he said.Regarding his weight, Opetaia revealed that he made weight more easily for this fight.

“We probably made weight, probably the easiest I’ve done for this fight,” he mentioned. He felt comfortable in the cruiserweight division, although he also assured that he could move up to heavyweight whenever he wanted. “I know when I want to move up to heavyweight, I can also make weight,” he indicated.

On future fights, Jai Opetaia expressed interest in the bout taking place in Riyadh between Chris Billam-Smith and Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez. “Are you keeping an eye on the winner of that? I imagine you just want to get to a position where you have as many belts as possible,” the interviewer asked. Opetaia responded affirmatively, noting that his goal is unification of belts. “I’m just pursuing unification of belts, so I’m really chasing those progress fights,” he explained.Junto Nakatani retains WBC bantamweight title as Naoya Inoue pursuit continues

The champion also reflected on the underestimation of the cruiserweight division in boxing. “It’s funny because people always underestimate the cruiserweight division, and they certainly have in recent years,” he stated. He recalled Oleksandr Usyk’s impact on the division and how his success became more recognized after moving up to heavyweight.

Finally, Opetaia was reflective about his journey and the future. “What does all this mean to you? Can you summarize it?” he was asked. “I’m not sure yet. I feel like we still have a lot of hard work to do,” he replied. The champion emphasized the importance of continuing to work hard and not resting on his laurels. “We are seeing a light at the end of the tunnel; I don’t know what that light is yet, but we are not there yet,” he concluded.

Jai Opetaia continues to show his determination and ambition in boxing. With his focus on hard work and progress, the Australian champion is prepared to face new challenges in his career.

In a recent interview, renowned light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol shared valuable insights into how emotions and technical differences play a significant role in boxing, particularly when comparing his experiences facing Artur Beterbiev and Canelo Álvarez.

Bivol emphasized the importance of managing emotions in the ring, explaining that many fighters who faced Canelo allowed their emotions to affect their performance. "A lot depends on your emotions," Bivol stated. He believes that unchecked emotions can prevent boxers from reaching their full potential, and it's crucial to maintain control to execute strategies effectively.

Discussing his much-anticipated matchup against Artur Beterbiev, Bivol acknowledged the aura surrounding Beterbiev, who is often described as a "monster" in the ring. However, Bivol felt excitement rather than intimidation when preparing for the challenge. "I was excited; I was trying to use the right emotions about it," he remarked, confident in his ability to handle the pressure.

When it came to Beterbiev’s punching power, Bivol explained that Beterbiev’s strength lies not in a single knockout blow, but in the consistent power of his combinations. "It's not just one punch; he’s trying to throw combinations. Every punch in the combination is heavy," Bivol noted. This differs from Canelo, who focuses on landing powerful single punches from a distance. According to Bivol, while Canelo may have a harder single punch, Beterbiev is more relentless in his attacks, delivering hard blows with every punch in a combination.

Bivol further contrasted the two champions, noting that while Beterbiev's compact and aggressive style ensures every punch is strong, Canelo's power is more concentrated in individual punches. "Maybe Canelo’s single punch is harder sometimes than Beterbiev’s," Bivol observed, but he added that Beterbiev is physically bigger and naturally strong.

Bivol also reflected on weight divisions, acknowledging that while Canelo is considered a “small 168,” his strength is still remarkable. Bivol's admiration for both fighters is clear, as he highlights their different but equally dangerous approaches inside the ring.

As for his own approach, Bivol draws inspiration from legendary boxers such as Sugar Ray Leonard and Muhammad Ali, adopting a technical and intelligent fighting style over raw power. This blend of mental discipline, technical skill, and ability to manage emotions is what has made Dmitry Bivol one of the most respected figures in modern boxing.

Bivol’s comparisons between Beterbiev and Canelo offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a champion, underscoring the differences in strategy and power between two of the sport’s biggest names.

Source: Dmitry Bivol's interview analysis

#DmitryBivol #Beterbiev #CaneloAlvarez #BoxingAnalysis #LightHeavyweight #Boxing