Former featherweight world champion Barry McGuigan condemns unbeaten American boxer Devin Haney as a 'weight cheat' following revelations of an astounding weight surge between the weigh-in and his recent fight night. Haney's victory over Regis Prograis to secure the WBC super-lightweight title marked a remarkable achievement, elevating him to a two-division conqueror at just twenty-five-years-old. However, concerns arose when reports unveiled an astonishing 25lbs gain in weight between the official weigh-in and the actual fight, raising eyebrows about his ability to make the lightweight limit. While fighters typically rehydrate after weigh-ins, Haney's significant weight increase had fans questioning how he managed to meet the lightweight criteria. The drastic weight surge, unsanctioned by the WBC but contrary to the IBF's guidelines, has cast doubt on potential future matchups, particularly a showdown with lightweight sensation Gervonta 'Tank' Davis. Haney's challenge to Davis, without a rehydration clause and suggesting a probable discrepancy in their in-ring weights, has stirred controversy and uncertainty around their potential fight. McGuigan's criticism of Haney adds fuel to the debate, drawing attention to the practices and ethics in the world of boxing. The unexpected surge in weight post-weigh-in raises questions about Haney's ability to compete within the lightweight limit and could potentially impact future negotiations and matchups, leaving fans and the boxing community intrigued about the implications for Haney's future bouts. #BarryMcGuigan #DevinHaney #BoxingControversy #WeightGainDebate #GervontaDavis #BoxingNews #AthleteWeightConcerns

Daniel Dubois sets his sights on redemption as he prepares to face Jarrell Miller in Riyadh, determined to prove himself after critics questioned his resilience following previous bouts against Usyk and Joyce. With a record of 19-2, Dubois, the towering 6'6" heavyweight, aims to silence doubters after moments of adversity in prior fights, signaling a pivotal opportunity for resurgence. In an effort to dispel any notion of weakness, Dubois is eager to showcase his fortitude against Miller, a formidable and aggressive opponent. Miller's comeback into boxing following a lengthy hiatus presents a challenging adversary for Dubois, who recognizes the significance of this bout in shaping his legacy in the sport. Dubois expresses readiness for this showdown, acknowledging the importance of this fight in his career trajectory. His candid acknowledgment of the need to dispel doubts and redefine his narrative in the ring underscores his determination to cement his mark as a true heavyweight force. Emphasizing his preference for engaging with aggressive fighters like Miller, Dubois anticipates a compelling clash, signaling his readiness to confront challenges head-on. Amidst the anticipation, Dubois reflects on his relationship with his father, acknowledging the pivotal role his guidance has played in his career. With an eye on victory, Dubois envisions rewarding himself post-fight, contemplating a potential luxury purchase. His admiration and gratitude towards his father's guidance and support underline the significance of their bond in his personal and professional life. #DanielDubois #JarrellMiller #HeavyweightBoxing #RiyadhShowdown #BoxingRedemption #LegacyBuilding

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum reveals disappointment over the lackluster performance of the Devin Haney vs. Regis Prograis Pay-Per-View (PPV) event on DAZN, attributing the low numbers to a combination of factors. Arum emphasizes that the event's failure to draw in viewers wasn't due to a single issue but a culmination of various aspects. According to Arum, the timing played a significant role, as hosting an expensive PPV event, priced at $75, in December clashed with fans saving up for holiday expenses. Moreover, the simultaneous ESPN featherweight bout between Robeisy Ramirez and Rafael Espinoza on the same night proved to be more captivating, contrasting with the defensive style displayed in the Haney vs. Prograis fight. Arum highlights the mismatch perception surrounding the fight, where Prograis, an aging 35-year-old fighter, was seen as a cherry-picked opponent by Haney and his team. Prograis' recent performance slump and lack of popularity further diminished audience interest, leading to fans viewing the fight as strategically chosen for Haney's victory rather than as an intriguing match-up. While Arum didn't explicitly mention it, the undercard for the Haney vs. Prograis event also faced criticism for its lack of excitement, potentially contributing to the overall disappointment among viewers. Expressing his disappointment, Arum noted the challenges of hosting a PPV event in December, a time when people prioritize holiday expenses over purchasing fight events, reflecting on the impact on PPV numbers. The combination of timing, lack of a compelling fight narrative, and an uninspiring undercard collectively contributed to the unsatisfactory outcome of the Haney vs. Prograis PPV event, reflecting the complexities of boxing event success. #HaneyvsPrograis #BobArum #PPVDisappointment #Boxing #DevinHaney #RegisPrograis

As the highly anticipated clash between Anthony Joshua and Otto Wallin looms, the stakes couldn't be higher. For ‘AJ,’ a win means potential fights with Deontay Wilder and a shot at a third world title. However, a loss could cast a shadow over his future in the sport. Joshua, backed by two wins in 2023, enters the ring as a 3/1 favorite against the Swedish southpaw, Wallin. But speaking to Boxing Social, John Fury, father of WBC Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury, believes Joshua will show resilience in the ring due to the high stakes involved. Fury Sr. is, however, boldly predicting an upset victory for Wallin. His reasoning centers on Wallin's partnership with former two-weight world champion turned trainer, Joey Gamache. Fury cites Wallin's determination, the unique challenges he presents, and the coaching prowess of Gamache as factors tipping the scales in Wallin's favor. Despite Joshua's recent victories under Texan trainer Derrick James, he's opted for a new corner with former Fury coach, Ben Davison, for this crucial fight. Davison, who previously worked with Tyson Fury in his win over Wallin, brings his expertise to Joshua's camp, aiming to counter Wallin's style. Wallin, with only one loss in his record against Fury due to a gruesome cut that required 47 stitches, enters the bout with a confident stride, having secured six consecutive wins since that encounter. The bout between Joshua and Wallin holds the promise of a thrilling clash, with both fighters gearing up for a monumental showdown that could reshape the landscape of the heavyweight division. #AnthonyJoshua #OttoWallin #JohnFuryPrediction #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingClash #JoshuavsWallin

Sunny Edwards, the valiant IBF flyweight champion, faced a daunting challenge as he squared off against Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez, the WBO titleholder, in a high-stakes title clash that ended in a grueling defeat for Edwards. The British boxer revealed the harrowing aftermath of his battle, displaying severe facial injuries following his fight against Rodriguez. In an intense showdown held in Arizona, Edwards (20-1-0) courageously defended his title against the undefeated Rodriguez (19-0-0), eventually retiring in his corner after nine arduous rounds. Despite moments of success, Rodriguez showcased superior power, inflicting a devastating blow by fracturing Edwards' eye socket as early as the second round. The toll of the fight was evident as Rodriguez emerged as the unified champion, but Edwards, despite his defeat, earned respect and admiration for his unwavering determination against one of the division's best pound-for-pound fighters. The aftermath of the brutal encounter revealed a shocking image shared by Edwards, depicting severe bruising around both eyes, a deep gash above one eye, and a smaller cut below the other. Acknowledging the criticism likely to follow, Edwards humbly accepted the consequences of his bold pre-fight statements, acknowledging the price he paid in the ring. While critics may seize the moment, Edwards received widespread praise for his bravery and willingness to test himself against a formidable opponent on foreign ground, delivering an enthralling spectacle throughout the fight. Even in defeat, Eddie Hearn, Edwards' promoter, commended the 27-year-old for his unwavering courage in the ring. #SunnyEdwards #JesseRodriguez #FacialInjuries #BoxingBattle #FlyweightTitleFight #BoxingChampion

In the lead-up to the Riyadh showdown, the psychological battlefield is heating up for Anthony Joshua. His opponents, Otto Wallin and Deontay Wilder, are hurling familiar accusations at the British boxer, claiming he’s "mentally fragile" and "weak." The scrutiny on Joshua’s mental resilience intensified after a revealing BBC documentary moment. Caught in a vulnerable exchange, it was evident that the weight of expectations and doubts had taken a toll on him. Observers note the shift in Joshua's narrative from a celebrated sports icon to a more introspective figure, echoing sentiments of "He’s not been the same since…" Yet, Saturday's face-off against Wallin presents a pivotal opportunity for Joshua to silence these doubts once and for all. In Riyadh, Joshua faces a formidable challenge in Wallin, hand-picked as a credible opponent with his own title aspirations. For Joshua's camp, the stakes are high as they hope for a convincing win to reignite a career shaken by defeats to Ruiz and Usyk. The question looms: is Joshua beyond repair or is this a strategic reset leading to a triumphant comeback? Comparisons to heavyweight legends like Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, and Wladimir Klitschko offer hope. Ali and Lewis adapted after setbacks, while Klitschko's transformation under Emanuel Steward led to a prolonged reign. Can Joshua follow in their footsteps and carve his own redemption arc? #AnthonyJoshua #RedemptionQuest #RiyadhShowdown #Boxing #WallinVsJoshua

Dmitry Bivol's monumental victory against Gilberto Ramirez in Abu Dhabi set the stage for his return to the ring, generating immense anticipation for his upcoming fight against Lyndon Arthur in Saudi Arabia. Despite Ramirez's formidable track record, Bivol showcased his boxing prowess in a dominant display that echoed legends like Joe Calzaghe's iconic match. The boxing world, now riveted by Bivol's imminent showdown, anticipates his clash with Lyndon Arthur. While Arthur boasts an impressive record, Bivol's reputation as a pound-for-pound standout casts a looming shadow over the anticipated bout. Bivol's focus on Arthur doesn't eclipse the ultimate test looming on the horizon—Artur Beterbiev. The prospect of a unification bout between Bivol and Beterbiev tantalizes fans and pundits alike, with Bivol eyeing this as the true testament of his prowess in the ring. The boxing landscape's complexities, entwined with politics and various sanctioning bodies, hint at potential obstacles. However, the resonance of a Bivol-Beterbiev clash, with its undoubted financial appeal, could transcend these hurdles. Saudi Arabia's fervor for hosting significant boxing events adds to the intrigue, positioning itself as a potential battleground for the eventual Bivol-Beterbiev face-off, promising an exhilarating winner-takes-all spectacle. With the stage set for an electrifying series of fights, boxing aficionados eagerly await the unfolding drama and the prospect of witnessing legendary clashes in the light heavyweight division. #DmitryBivol #LyndonArthur #BeterbievShowdown #BoxingTitles #SaudiArabiaBoxing

Tyson Fury, having faced Deontay Wilder three times, shares invaluable advice for his friend Joseph Parker ahead of his clash against Wilder in Saudi Arabia this Saturday. The guidance? Simple: "Don’t get hit in the face with one of them big KO right hands." Fury's counsel mirrors his personality and the widely acknowledged strategy when confronting Wilder's explosive punches. With a touch of humor, Fury quipped, "Avoid the right hand! That’s my tip for Parker. What more else can you say? Don’t get hit by the right hand and you’ll win the fight." Joseph Parker enters the bout with a 33-3 record, securing three consecutive victories since his knockout loss to Joe Joyce in 2022. Despite losses to Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte in 2018, Parker's pivotal career win remains a debatable decision over Andy Ruiz Jr in 2016 for the WBO title. Wilder, renowned for his formidable right hand, boasts a record of 43-2-1, with his most recent fight resulting in a first-round knockout victory over Robert Helenius 14 months ago. Despite the hiatus, Wilder showcased his signature knockout power, affirming his reputation as a force in the ring. Fury’s prediction in favor of Parker comes with a pinch of his characteristic bias, often supporting those he likes. However, his insight underscores the importance of strategic evasion when facing Wilder's potent punches. #TysonFury #JosephParker #DeontayWilder #BoxingAdvice #WilderVsParker

Trainer Ronnie Shields has set his sights on a blockbuster showdown between David Morrell Jr and Canelo Alvarez, aiming for the undisputed super middleweight championship if a clash with David Benavidez doesn't materialize. Shields believes Morrell's exceptional talent warrants a shot at Canelo, viewing him as the perfect opponent for the boxing superstar. Despite Morrell's limited ten-fight career, his prowess in the ring has earned him recognition, with Shields advocating for two or three mandatory fights to set the stage for a potential Canelo matchup. The pursuit of a fight against Benavidez hit a roadblock, as Benavidez opted to face Demetrius Andrade instead of Morrell, leaving the Cuban talent eager for a significant challenge. Morrell's focus on facing Benavidez has been met with disappointment, but his recent performance against Sena Agbeko highlighted his dominance, securing a second-round stoppage on Showtime's final broadcast after 37 years in boxing. Despite Agbeko's efforts, Morrell, at 25 years old, showcased his prowess and left his mark in the ring. While discussions about a potential clash with Canelo have surfaced, Morrell's immediate aim has been redirecting Benavidez's attention to the ring. His trainer's aspirations for a Canelo showdown suggest an ambitious leap for Morrell's career, highlighting the confidence in his abilities. As the boxing world anticipates Morrell's next move, the possibility of a Canelo matchup adds an intriguing dimension to his burgeoning career, offering a potential marquee moment for the young Cuban talent. #DavidMorrellJr #CaneloAlvarez #TrainerRonnieShields #BoxingShowdown #SuperMiddleweight

In a surprising twist of events, Joseph Parker steps into the ring with Deontay Wilder in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in a hastily arranged match co-main eventing the Day Of Reckoning card. The bout, organized on a six-week notice, diverges from the norm in boxing promotion, featuring an entire heavyweight/light heavyweight lineup in a jaw-dropping event. This sudden clash between Parker and Wilder marks an unanticipated spectacle amidst a lineup boasting Anthony Joshua, Otto Wallin, Dmitry Bivol, Lyndon Arthur, Kiwi Junior Fa, and Cuban Frank Sanchez. The promotion for this unique event, encapsulated in an apocalyptic-themed video, seems a far cry from the usual extensive build-up seen in high-profile fights. Despite the short notice and unconventional promotion, the financial enticement prevails, with Parker set to earn approximately NZD $10 million. This unexpected turn signifies a remarkable shift for the former WBO World Champion, reflecting on his journey from past successes to his current career juncture. Joseph Parker's record, now at 33-3, distinguishes his career before and after his world championship reign. His post-title era, marked by setbacks against Dillian Whyte and Joe Joyce, has seen Parker striving for a resurgence in the heavyweight division. After a series of wins against lesser-known opponents, Parker's opportunity against Wilder emerges as a pivotal moment in his career resurgence. The upcoming clash presents a clash of styles between Parker and Wilder, showcasing the unpredictability that such a hastily arranged match can bring. Amidst limited preparation time for both fighters, the bout adds an air of intrigue and uncertainty to the boxing world. The event in Saudi Arabia signifies a trend toward leveraging immense wealth for sporting extravaganzas. While it lacks the usual lead-up of a high-profile Parker fight, it presents an unprecedented opportunity for both fighters to showcase their skills and potential in the ring. #JosephParker #DeontayWilder #BoxingRiyadh #UnorthodoxShowdown #BoxingExtravaganza

Australian boxing sensation Jai Opetaia faces a turbulent turn in his career as he forfeits his IBF cruiserweight belt in favor of a lucrative $2 million deal in Saudi Arabia. Opting for a staggering $670,000 payday on December 23 in a high-stakes match against England’s Ellis Zorro, Opetaia's decision costs him his IBF world title and a mandatory defense against Mairis Briedis. Reports reveal Opetaia's multi-million-dollar deal with the Saudis, headlining alongside Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, Joseph Parker, and Daniel Dubois. However, the move to fight on the Day of Reckoning card sidelines his IBF mandatory defense against Briedis, leading to the organization stripping him of his hard-earned title. The IBF’s refusal to grant Opetaia another exemption for the Zorro fight, citing regulations against consecutive waivers, leaves the Australian champ with a heart-wrenching dilemma. Manager Mick Francis expressed Opetaia's disappointment, stating the situation is "gut-wrenching" for the dedicated boxer, who worked tirelessly to attain his world championship. Promoter Eddie Hearn voices frustration over the IBF's decision, emphasizing the life-changing nature of Opetaia's Saudi deal and the implications of losing it over a committee ruling. The conflicting situation pits financial gain against boxing legacy, raising questions about the balance between career opportunities and governing body regulations. As Opetaia faces the tough choice between a significant payday and maintaining his IBF title, the boxing world watches closely, questioning the impact of stringent regulations on a boxer's career trajectory and financial stability. #JaiOpetaia #IBFTitleLoss #BoxingPayday #SaudiDeal #BoxingDilemma

Showtime Sports bids an emotional farewell after 37 remarkable years in the boxing arena, marking the end of an era that has left an indelible mark on the sport. Reflecting on this monumental goodbye, legendary figures from the boxing world and passionate fans share heartfelt sentiments, commemorating the legacy left by Showtime Boxing. Commentator Al Bernstein, expressing gratitude, acknowledges the exceptional boxers, Showtime colleagues, and devoted fans, marking the end of a spectacular journey in his career. Publicist Kelly Swanson and ESPN commentator Crystina Poncher echo sentiments of love and nostalgia, acknowledging the pivotal role of Showtime and HBO in shaping their love for the "sweet science." PBC podcaster Kenneth Bouharie pays tribute to the final show, reminiscing about the passion-filled venue and the profound impact of Showtime Boxing's enduring legacy. Former champions Danny Garcia and Paul Malignaggi share personal reflections, expressing gratitude for the life-changing opportunities and lamenting the end of a treasured era in boxing history. Ring announcer Michael Buffer, proud of his association with Showtime Boxing's early years, commemorates the iconic phrase "it's Showtime!" and pays homage to the creative forces behind the network's success. Premier Boxing Champions acknowledges Showtime's unparalleled dedication in covering the sport, expressing gratitude for the memories and the fervent passion shown throughout their journey. The heartfelt farewells underscore the emotional resonance of Showtime Boxing's departure, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of boxing enthusiasts worldwide. #ShowtimeBoxing #BoxingFarewell #EndOfAnEra #BoxingLegends #BoxingMemories

Galal Yafai showcased his boxing finesse in a 10-round bout against Rocco Santomauro on the Sunny Edwards-Jesse Rodriguez undercard in Glendale, Arizona. Securing a unanimous decision with scores of 99-91, 98-93, and 97-93, Yafai's strategic outboxing style earned him the win, advancing his record to 6-0 with 4 knockouts. Throughout the fight, Yafai's adept southpaw stance allowed him to control the distance, employing swift movement and ring mastery to outmaneuver Santomauro. Despite some success from Santomauro's straight right hands, Yafai's tactical approach drew both admiration and discontent from the audience, as he maintained a consistent pace without pushing for a knockout. While Santomauro managed sporadic connections, including left hooks to the head, Yafai's calculated strategy persevered. Despite a cut over Santomauro's left eye, possibly from a clash of heads, Yafai's dominance remained evident, although the crowd expressed displeasure at his refusal to escalate the aggression. Post-fight, Yafai acknowledged the learning curve, recognizing the need to avoid underestimating opponents and emphasizing continual improvement. Despite his victory, he acknowledged room for growth, particularly against an opponent with Santomauro's seasoned record of 23-24 fights. Santomauro, now 22-3 with 6 KOs, faced his second consecutive loss following a defeat to Ricardo Sandoval. The Californian boxer, known for prior victories against lesser competition, struggled against Yafai's calculated approach. Olympic gold medalist Galal Yafai's strategic prowess and tactical mastery shone in Glendale, securing a unanimous victory and underlining his growth in the professional boxing arena. Despite audience discontent, Yafai's methodical approach proved effective against a seasoned opponent like Rocco Santomauro. #GalalYafai #BoxingVictory #GlendaleShowdown #SantomauroVsYafai #BoxingSkills #RingMastery

David Morrell, the WBA "regular" super middleweight champion, showcased his prowess in a spectacular showdown at The Armory in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In a decisive victory, Morrell secured a second-round TKO over Sena Agbeko, affirming his dominance in the ring and retaining his WBA belt. The match, which marked the end of a 37-year era of boxing on the Showtime network, saw Morrell's relentless assault on Agbeko, culminating in a stoppage at 1:43 of the second round. The overwhelming display of Morrell's skills left Agbeko helpless, prompting the referee to intervene and wave off the bout, solidifying another remarkable performance for Morrell. In a gripping WBA lightweight eliminator, Jose "El Rayo" Valenzuela delivered a stunning sixth-round knockout against Chris "Primetime" Colbert. Valenzuela's victory, sealed with a colossal right hook that sent Colbert sprawling face-first, avenged his controversial loss to Colbert in March. The match ended at 1:46, marking a redemption-filled triumph for Valenzuela. The electrifying victory for David Morrell solidifies his standing as the WBA "regular" super middleweight champion, showcasing his dominance with a commanding second-round TKO. Meanwhile, Jose Valenzuela's redemption-filled knockout victory adds an exciting chapter to his boxing journey, marking a triumphant reversal against Chris Colbert. #DavidMorrell #WBAChampion #BoxingTKO #ValenzuelaVsColbert #BoxingRedemption #ArmoryShowdown