Shakur Stevenson's recent bout against Edwin De Los Santos left fans disappointed and drew criticism for his safety-first approach in the ring. The lackluster performance led Ryan Garcia, known for his explosive knockouts, to express his disappointment, urging Stevenson to offer fans something more thrilling. Responding to Garcia's criticism, Stevenson acknowledged his recent issues, including a supposed hand injury and an unspecified illness, attributing them to his lackluster performance. However, Garcia remained unyielding in his assessment, insisting that Stevenson's cautious style was disappointing and lacked excitement. In a bold move, Stevenson took to social media, challenging Garcia for a face-off in the ring, promising a more engaging fight. Despite typically relying on evasive footwork, Stevenson assured fans that against Garcia, he would adopt a different strategy, opting to stand toe-to-toe for an action-packed bout. Garcia, no stranger to tough challenges, recently faced Gervonta Davis despite warnings, showcasing his willingness to take on formidable opponents. Although Garcia faced a loss in that match, he remains determined to use it as a learning experience to improve his game. While both fighters seem eager for the showdown, potential obstacles loom. Stevenson is aligned with Top Rank, while Garcia is under Golden Boy Promotions, creating the typical promotional barriers in boxing. Additionally, the fighters currently compete in different weight classes, but Stevenson expressed openness to finding a reasonable catchweight to make the fight happen, emphasizing his willingness to meet Garcia in the ring despite their size difference. The clash between Stevenson and Garcia presents an intriguing matchup of contrasting boxing styles, hinting at a potential showdown that could excite boxing fans eager to witness their contrasting approaches in action.

Billy Joe Saunders, a two-division world champion, recently opened up about a formidable opponent from his amateur days, a fighter he believes he could never have beaten in his prime. Recounting his experience on the Keep A LukeOut Podcast, Saunders reflected on an intense showdown against Russian boxer Andrey Balanov, highlighting the profound impact this bout had on his career trajectory. Saunders candidly confessed, "There's one amateur fight, I'm gonna be honest and say I would never ever have beat him in my prime." Describing the aura surrounding Balanov, Saunders recalled his trepidation before facing him, acknowledging the Russian's supreme boxing prowess. "I remember just watching this fella on YouTube, and I was thinking, 'I do not want to fight him, I am not going to beat this man,'" Saunders remarked. The fight against Balanov left an indelible impression on Saunders, who vividly recalled the intense experience inside the ring. Despite initially trailing significantly against the seasoned opponent, Saunders showcased resilience and determination. "He sent me back to the corner, and it was 7-0 to him," Saunders reminisced, marveling at Balanov's technical brilliance. However, fueled by sheer determination, Saunders launched a fierce comeback in the later rounds, pouring everything into the fight. "I thought, 'I've got him,'" Saunders remembered, describing his shift in strategy and relentless determination to turn the tide. Ultimately, Saunders emerged victorious against Balanov, acknowledging his win but attributing it to his youthful vigor against the older adversary. The significance of this bout reverberated beyond the ring as both Saunders and Balanov bowed out in the subsequent Beijing 2008 Olympics, each facing defeat in the second round. Saunders' reflection on this memorable clash underscores the profound impact that experiences in the amateur ranks can have on a boxer's journey, shaping their perspective and approach toward the sport. Saunders' revelation about his intense encounter with Balanov offers a glimpse into the competitive world of amateur boxing and the lasting influence it can wield on a fighter's career trajectory.

In the lead-up to the historic heavyweight title showdown between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, Zhilei Zhang has raised concerns about Fury's focus on boxing, suggesting a potential "big problem" ahead of the highly anticipated clash. Scheduled for February 17 in Saudi Arabia, the bout aims to crown the division's first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis in 1999. Zhang, eyeing a shot at the WBO belt as the mandatory challenger, expressed worry over Fury's recent mindset, citing Fury's previous bout against Francis Ngannou. Fury secured a narrow split decision win over Ngannou in October, a fight where questions arose about Fury's preparation and physical condition. Zhang emphasized that Fury's training seemed off, hinting that Fury might not be in his usual fighting form. Despite being hopeful for Fury's success and a potential future fight against him, Zhang pointed out that Fury's recent focus has seemed more directed toward commercial and promotional activities rather than honing his boxing skills. Zhang stressed the importance of unwavering dedication in the boxing world, implying that Fury's recent pursuits outside the ring might have affected his readiness for the Usyk fight. The Chinese heavyweight expressed a desire for Fury to triumph in the upcoming title fight but cautioned that if Fury's training mirrored his preparation for the Ngannou bout, it could spell trouble against Usyk. The originally slated December 23 date for Fury vs. Usyk was postponed due to Fury's challenging encounter with Ngannou, underscoring the impact of that grueling fight on the planned schedule. While Zhang won't feature in the December card, he remains eager for his chance in the ring, already in fight-ready condition. As the heavyweight scene prepares for the clash of titans between Fury and Usyk, Zhang's observations hint at a potential storyline of doubt surrounding Fury's mindset and preparation, adding an intriguing layer of uncertainty to the build-up of this high-stakes matchup.

Inside the Turbulent Road to Benn vs. Eubank Jr The Unraveling Grudge Match In the realm of British boxing, the clash between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn has tantalized fans, promising fireworks and anticipation. Yet, this heated matchup has been a rollercoaster ride marred by controversies and setbacks, painting a tumultuous path towards its realization. Originally slated for October last year, the showdown took an unexpected turn when Benn’s two positive tests for clomifene surfaced, abruptly halting the anticipated bout. The cloud of uncertainty hung heavy over Benn’s status, casting doubt on the future of this eagerly awaited clash. September brought a glimmer of hope as the 27-year-old received clearance from UKAD, signaling a green light for his return to the ring in the UK. It appeared that the storm had cleared, paving the way for the long-awaited fight to finally materialize. However, recent revelations hinted at unresolved issues on Eubank's end, delaying the much-anticipated announcement. Reports surfaced suggesting Benn's application to fight had hit a roadblock, met with rejection by the British Boxing Board of Control, throwing the highly-anticipated matchup into disarray once again. The looming prospect of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium hosting this epic battle on February 3 seemed imminent, but the twists and turns in this saga have left both fighters and fans on edge. The intricate web of legal entanglements and conflicting reports has painted a picture of uncertainty around what was supposed to be a defining moment in British boxing. Despite the setbacks, the fervor surrounding the clash between Eubank Jr and Benn remains undiminished. The highs and lows of this tumultuous journey have only served to amplify the stakes and the eagerness among fans to witness these two warriors settle their differences in the ring. As the boxing world awaits a resolution to this saga, the anticipation and suspense around Benn vs. Eubank Jr continue to grow, with hopes pinned on a breakthrough that will finally bring this intense rivalry to a thunderous culmination.

Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang has become a prime target after delivering two consecutive knockout victories against the formidable Joe Joyce, earning him widespread attention in the UK. Zhang's impressive performances showcased his skillful boxing behind a southpaw jab, resulting in significant damage to Joyce's eye in their first bout and a decisive knockout in their second encounter. Maintaining his WBO Mandatory status, Zhang eyes the winner of the upcoming Tyson Fury versus Oleksandr Usyk undisputed fight on February 17, anticipating a shot at the title. However, Croatian boxer Filip Hrgovic, who faced Zhang in a contentious matchup in August 2022, is now calling for a rematch in Beijing, Zhang's home country. Reflecting on their previous fight, Hrgovic believes he was fortunate to secure a unanimous points win in Jeddah on the undercard of Usyk's rematch with Anthony Joshua. Expressing his determination in an interview with iFL TV, Hrgovic passionately declared his readiness to confront Zhang in China, vowing to defeat him in front of a massive audience. Hrgovic's bold proclamation didn't stop there as he emphasized his confidence in securing a knockout victory in China, regardless of the circumstances. Eager to prove his prowess, he vowed to outshine Zhang, pledging to surpass their previous encounter's outcome and asserting that even on his best night, Zhang wouldn't last six rounds against him. While Hrgovic prepares for his upcoming fight against Mark De Mori on the grand card in Saudi Arabia on December 23, his eyes remain fixed on a potential title shot as the IBF mandatory contender. As the heavyweight division brims with anticipation over future matchups, Hrgovic's determination to secure a rematch against Zhang in China adds an electrifying dimension to the ongoing saga in the world of boxing.

Title: "Chris Eubank Jr's Warning to Conor Benn Ahead of Confirmed Fight Date" The long-awaited clash between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn is finally nearing reality, with the war of words between the two British fighters reigniting as the fight date for 2024 draws closer. The anticipated showdown, set to take place on February 3 at London's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, resurfaces after being initially slated for October 2022 but was derailed due to Benn's positive test with the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency. While an appeal process with the British Boxing Board of Control remains ongoing, Benn staunchly maintains his innocence, confident that the fight will proceed despite the lingering issue. Benn's lone fight since the incident resulted in a ten-round points victory over Rodolfo Orozco, who later failed a drug test post-fight. On the other hand, Eubank has had two encounters with Liam Smith, initially losing by knockout before triumphing impressively in a rematch shortly afterward. In a recent social media exchange, Eubank, responding to Benn's statement of eagerly anticipating the fight to "punch [him] in the head," offered his first commentary since the confirmed fight date surfaced. As the naturally larger fighter competing at his preferred weight and boasting greater activity in the past year, Eubank emerges as the favored contender in the eyes of many. Eubank's notable victories against established fighters like James DeGale and Smith stand out significantly compared to Benn's less experienced opponents. However, in the unpredictable realm of grudge matches, outcomes can defy expectations. While Eubank's achievements place him in a favorable position, the heated rivalry between the two promises an intriguing showdown where anything can unfold. As the countdown to the highly anticipated face-off between Eubank Jr and Benn intensifies, fans eagerly await a clash that could potentially redefine the narratives in the British boxing scene. The tension between the fighters and their contrasting paths leading to this showdown only heightens the anticipation for a match that has been brewing for quite some time.

Heavyweight contender Otto Wallin has stirred controversy by questioning Oleksandr Usyk's legitimacy as the unified world heavyweight champion, citing a contentious moment in Usyk's last fight against Daniel Dubois. Wallin, with a record of 26-1, believes Usyk's possession of the WBA, WBO, IBF, and IBO titles is unjust, pointing to a disputed knockdown in the Usyk-Dubois bout where a body shot landed on Usyk's beltline, sparking a heated debate over the referee's call and Usyk's extended recovery time. During the Usyk-Dubois fight in August, a body shot from Dubois resulted in Usyk being ruled down by the referee, prompting an uproar. Referee Luis Pabon deemed the shot a foul, granting Usyk more than the usual recovery time. Wallin, echoing sentiments from Dubois and promoter Frank Warren, sees this extended recovery as an unfair advantage, questioning the legitimacy of Usyk's reign as champion. Expressing his viewpoint on Usyk's vulnerability, Wallin highlighted the Ukrainian's susceptibility to body shots, citing Usyk's past encounters, particularly the undisputed cruiserweight bout against Murat Gassiev. Wallin extensively studied this fight before securing a victory over Gassiev in September, identifying body shots as Usyk's Achilles' heel. Wallin is slated to face Anthony Joshua in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 23, aiming to further his undefeated streak following his defeat to Tyson Fury in 2019. Meanwhile, Usyk is set to clash with Fury on February 17, also in Riyadh, in what promises to be a showdown for the undisputed heavyweight world championship. As Wallin raises doubts about Usyk's championship status, the heavyweight division braces for intense matchups that could potentially redefine the title landscape. With controversies swirling around Usyk's reign, the upcoming fights of both Wallin and Usyk have intensified the spotlight on the credibility of the current unified heavyweight champion.

Joseph Parker is set for a monumental challenge as he gears up to face Deontay Wilder in what's deemed by many as his toughest bout yet. Following a setback against Joe Joyce, Parker has secured three victories against lower-level opponents in 2024, aiming to make a statement in his upcoming clash against the American knockout artist. The former WBO Champion, with losses to Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte on his record, sees the Wilder fight as a potential catapult back to the upper echelons of the heavyweight division. Despite being the underdog in betting odds, Parker holds a unique advantage with the insights of Tyson Fury and Andy Lee in his corner. Fury's dominant victories over Wilder and Lee's role in devising strategies for those fights could prove pivotal for Parker. Andy Lee, now a coach, commended Parker for embracing the Wilder challenge, a move that other heavyweights, including Anthony Joshua, haven't taken. Lee expressed surprise at the reluctance of top fighters to step into the ring with Wilder, questioning why Joshua hasn't pursued this matchup instead of opting for another fight. Lee's sentiments echo those of many fans wondering about the missed opportunity for a Joshua-Wilder showdown. With Joshua scheduled to face Otto Wallin on the same card, the possibility of a future matchup between Joshua and Wilder seems likely if both emerge victorious. However, Lee is confident that Parker, alongside Wallin, could disrupt these plans. Despite recognizing the risk in facing Wilder, known for his dangerous punching prowess, Lee stands firmly behind Parker's readiness and self-belief, asserting their conviction to cause an upset. Joseph Parker's decision to take on Deontay Wilder when others shy away from the challenge adds an intriguing twist to the heavyweight landscape, setting the stage for a potentially seismic shift in the division's dynamics. As the boxing world anticipates this high-stakes clash, Parker's courage and Lee's unwavering confidence hint at a showdown that could rewrite the future of heavyweight boxing.

Bob Arum, the renowned boxing promoter, hints at an unexpected comeback for Scottish boxer Josh Taylor, eyeing a potential showdown against the legendary Manny Pacquiao. Taylor, who suffered his first defeat against Teofimo Lopez in June, is gearing up for a return to the ring, with Arum suggesting Pacquiao as a compelling opponent. While Taylor relinquished his WBO super lightweight title during his last fight, speculation swirled around rematches with Jack Catterall or a move up to welterweight against Florian Marku. However, Arum's attention is fixed on the prospect of Taylor facing Pacquiao, despite the Filipino icon's retirement after a challenging bout against Yordenis Ugas in 2021. Arum sees the resurgence in the super lightweight division with fighters like Ryan Garcia, Oscar Duarte, Regis Prograis, and Devin Haney, alongside Taylor and Catterall. Amidst this revived interest, the prospect of a Taylor-Pacquiao clash adds an intriguing dimension to the division reminiscent of its glory days. Speaking to ProBox TV, Arum expressed his intentions for Taylor's return, aiming for a fight by April next year. He praised Taylor's skills and revealed his desire to match him against Pacquiao. Arum believes Pacquiao, despite retirement, might be interested in a showdown with Taylor, either at a catchweight or the welterweight limit of 147 pounds. Acknowledging Pacquiao's interest in continuing his career, Arum highlighted financial motives and Pacquiao's passion for boxing. He emphasized that Pacquiao, a wealthy individual, is driven by the desire to extend his boxing journey for at least another year or two, considering the allure of the sport and the potential matchups it offers. The potential clash between Taylor and Pacquiao, whether at a catchweight or the welterweight division, sets the stage for an enticing matchup, reviving the anticipation and excitement among boxing enthusiasts eager for the return of these two talented fighters.

Dublin witnessed uproar and controversy surrounding Katie Taylor's win, shrouded by claims of an overlooked knockdown and questionable scorecards. Chantelle Cameron's apparent knockdown of Taylor, disregarded by referee Roberto Ramirez Jr., sparked widespread criticism as Taylor surprisingly received favorable scorecards despite the incident, intensifying debates over the fairness of the judgment. The overlooked knockdown stirred speculation about how the fight's outcome might have shifted in Cameron's favor had it been acknowledged. Despite Taylor clinching a narrow majority decision, scrutiny mounted over the judges' scoring, with alleged discrepancies and modifications fueling heated debates across social media platforms. Coach Jamie Moore expressed deep dismay, labeling the event a 'set-up' and highlighting what he saw as biased treatment against Cameron. Moore criticized the referee's tolerance of Taylor's excessive holding tactics, which hampered Cameron's ability to display her inside fighting prowess. The unacknowledged knockdown and Taylor's repeated holding actions exacerbated a sense of injustice for Cameron's camp. Former Matchroom fighter Charlie Edwards echoed sentiments questioning the legitimacy of Taylor's win, underscoring the pivotal impact a recognized knockdown might have had on altering the fight's outcome. Edwards joined a chorus of voices contesting Taylor's victory, emphasizing the clear knockdown incident that, if acknowledged, could have swayed the decision in Cameron's favor. In the aftermath, the boxing community is embroiled in discussions, raising doubts about judging processes, alleged scorecard alterations, and the overall fairness of Taylor's win. The outcry has sparked demands for a potential rematch to address the contentious circumstances surrounding Katie Taylor's victory.

Terence Crawford, a dominant force in boxing, had mapped out his career ambitions, with Errol Spence Jr. and Jermell Charlo among his prime targets. Securing victory against Spence was a pivotal step towards his goal of becoming an undisputed champion in a second weight class. Eyes then turned to Charlo, the former undisputed champ in the junior middleweight division, marking a potential significant matchup in Crawford's plans for the latter part of his career. After his commanding win over Spence, Crawford's roadmap seemed to be taking shape. However, recent events have shifted the landscape. Charlo, once holding the WBA, WBO, WBC, and IBF titles, encountered setbacks, notably a lopsided loss against Canelo Alvarez and subsequent title losses, which have diminished Crawford's eagerness for the showdown. In a recent interview with FightHype's Sean Zittel, Crawford expressed a waning interest in a bout against Charlo, citing the latter's diminished shine following recent defeats and title relinquishments. While acknowledging Charlo's current status as a two-belt champion, Crawford conveyed a lack of immediate enthusiasm for pursuing that fight. Initially, the prospect of facing Charlo was a thrilling one for Crawford, but the changing dynamics in Charlo's career trajectory have tempered his eagerness. The allure of a matchup against Charlo has somewhat dwindled in the wake of recent events, prompting Crawford to shift his focus away from that particular fight for the time being. While not entirely closing the door on a potential showdown, Crawford's sentiments indicate a recalibration of his priorities, signaling a potential change in the trajectory of his final years in the sport. As he continues his undefeated streak, Crawford's strategic planning may lead him in different directions as he navigates the latter stages of his illustrious career.

  The anticipated showdown between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn is on the brink of confirmation, with reports indicating the final touches are being ironed out. This matchup comes after a tumultuous journey, including a setback last year when Benn tested positive for a banned substance, leading to the cancellation of their slated October fight. Since then, Eubank faced Liam Smith twice, experiencing both a stoppage loss and a subsequent stoppage win. Benn's journey has been outside the ring, encountering unresolved issues with the British Boxing Board of Control and the UK Anti-Doping Agency, leaving him without a UK fighting license. However, recent reports from Mail Sport suggest that discussions have progressed, securing a rumored date of February 3 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Despite their previous agreement at a catchweight of 157 pounds, the upcoming bout is anticipated to occur at the middleweight limit. While talks are reportedly nearing finalization, minor details on Eubank's end remain to be resolved before Eddie Hearn's Matchroom officially announces the fight. Interestingly, across town at the OVO Arena Wembley, another compelling matchup awaits as former sparring partners turned light-heavyweight rivals Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez are set to square off in the WBA World Title Final Eliminator. The clash of these two high-profile fights on the same date poses a scheduling challenge, with scarce stadium availability and a reluctance for further postponements. Buatsi vs. Azeez had initially been rescheduled from October due to Azeez's back injury, and both camps seem resolute on holding their ground regarding the date clash.

David Benavidez showcased his dominance in a spectacular showdown against Demetrius Andrade, effectively silencing critics who doubted his capabilities. The relentless fighter stopped the previously undefeated Andrade in the sixth round, leaving Andrade's handlers to halt the fight due to the relentless punishment he was enduring. It was a victory that spoke volumes about Benavidez's skill and adaptability inside the ring. Prior to the bout, skepticism surrounded Benavidez, with many predicting Andrade's technical prowess would outmaneuver him. Yet, Benavidez's unwavering determination and strategic prowess dismantled those expectations. Reflecting on his victory, Benavidez emphasized the importance of his rigorous training, crediting his success to the hard work invested in the camp. The fight unfolded with Andrade putting up a commendable performance in the initial rounds. However, Benavidez's perseverance, power, and adeptness in handling diverse boxing styles became increasingly evident. He strategically adjusted his approach, landing a pivotal right hand in the fourth round that set the tone for the remainder of the fight. Despite Andrade's efforts to rally in the following rounds, Benavidez's relentless pressure ultimately proved insurmountable. This victory, following his previous triumph over Caleb Plant, solidifies Benavidez's position as a force to be reckoned with in the super middleweight division. The judges' scorecards underscored his dominance over Plant earlier, and now, Benavidez's ability to convincingly handle Andrade further cements his status among championship-caliber fighters. Benavidez hopes this resounding win will shift the narrative, proving that his capabilities extend beyond sheer power and volume punching. His strategic approach to dismantling Andrade's game plan highlights his boxing intelligence and adaptability, attributes that set him apart in the realm of elite fighters. In the aftermath of this victory, Benavidez stands tall, a testament to his unwavering determination, strategic brilliance, and the undeniable evolution of his boxing prowess. The bout with Andrade served as a platform for Benavidez to silence doubters, showcasing not only his power but also his tactical finesse in handling varying styles—a pivotal moment in solidifying his position among the boxing elite.

Jermall Charlo's Emotional Plea to Twin Brother Jermell: Reconciliation and Boxing Future Uncertain" Jermall Charlo's victory in his comeback bout against Jose Benavidez Jr. had an unexpected twist—a public plea to his twin brother Jermell, who had been absent from the fight. The unbeaten Jermall (33-0, 22 KOs) secured a unanimous decision win after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, yet his mind was preoccupied with his twin brother's unresponsiveness. Jermall expressed concern, mentioning that Jermell wasn't answering calls and hadn't attended the match. Speculation arose about the brothers' estrangement, especially considering Jermell's recent defeat against Canelo Alvarez and the subsequent backlash for his performance. Jermell, once the undisputed super welterweight champion, faced criticism for what some deemed a cautious approach in the ring. This loss and the subsequent stripping of his titles could jeopardize Jermell's future fights and title retention if he prolongs his absence from boxing. Jermall, visibly worried about Jermell's well-being, urged his brother to reach out, emphasizing the importance of communication and seeking help when needed. He expressed his love for Jermell and highlighted his return to the ring as a positive step forward. While fans await a potential reunion between the Charlo brothers, discussions about Jermall's boxing future have included potential matchups with David Benavidez and other top contenders in the division. Jose Benavidez Sr., following his son's loss to Jermall, expressed interest in a fight between Jermall Charlo and David Benavidez. He praised Jermall's victory and voiced a desire for David to seek redemption against Jermall in a future bout, especially if a Canelo Alvarez fight does not materialize. This potential matchup between Jermall Charlo and David Benavidez has sparked intrigue among boxing enthusiasts. The Charlo brothers' relationship and Jermall's victorious comeback set the stage for potential high-profile fights in the super middleweight division. As discussions about future opponents and potential title shots continue, the uncertainty surrounding Jermell's absence from Jermall's fight remains a prominent concern in the boxing community.

Carl Froch, known for his outspoken nature, didn't hold back in criticizing a major figure in boxing for recent actions he deemed 'pathetic.' Fury's reported 'ban' on talkSPORT from covering his upcoming crossover fight against Francis Ngannou sparked Froch's disapproval, expressing his dismay over the exclusion of independent journalists. Addressing the issue on his 'Froch on Fighting' YouTube channel, the former super-middleweight champion condemned Tyson Fury's alleged decision to bar talkSPORT, emphasizing the importance of allowing diverse opinions and critique within journalism. Froch expressed concern over the implication that journalists risk exclusion for not aligning with certain promotional narratives, fearing a stifling of free speech and alternative viewpoints within the sport. Froch further emphasized the need to avoid giving fighters excessive control over media access, labeling the banning of journalists from events as 'ridiculous' and 'pathetic.' He highlighted the inherent conflict in allowing a fighter to dictate media attendance, urging a halt to such practices that limit journalistic expression. The talkSPORT 'ban' incident, as Froch noted, raises questions about journalistic freedom and the influence wielded by prominent boxers. With Fury's highly anticipated bout against Oleksandr Usyk on the horizon, talkSPORT aims for a potential reversal of this 'ban,' recognizing the significance of coverage for what's billed as one of the sport's biggest events. Froch's critique sheds light on the delicate balance between journalistic independence and fighters' control over media access, urging for a cessation of actions that inhibit diverse perspectives within boxing reportage.