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Nov 23 2023

Conor Benn's Win Clouded by Orozco's Drug Test Opponent Suspended

In a surprising turn, Conor Benn finds himself entangled in a drug testing controversy following his bout with Rodolfo Orozco. Reports confirm that Orozco, hailing from Mexico, has been temporarily suspended by the Florida Boxing License Commission due to an adverse finding for a banned substance in a sample taken after his September 24 defeat to Benn. The revelation emerged after their welterweight clash aired on DAZN from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The testing conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) flagged Orozco's sample, prompting the Florida commission's temporary suspension and an ongoing investigation into the matter. Benn, undefeated in 22 fights with 14 knockouts, underwent pre-fight testing as mandated by the Association of Boxing Commission, lifting any concerns surrounding his participation. However, this isn't the first time Benn's name has been associated with a drug testing saga. Previously, a positive test for Clomiphene led to the cancellation of his anticipated fight against Chris Eubank Jr. last April, resulting in a prolonged inactive period until his recent fight with Orozco. The fight against Orozco marked Benn's return to the ring, where he triumphed via a hard-earned unanimous decision after ten rounds. While Orozco showcased bravery in the ring, fighting through to the final bell, his admirable performance now faces scrutiny in the wake of the positive drug test. The situation has put Orozco's boxing future in limbo, barring him from fighting in the U.S. pending the investigation. Although commissions in Mexico are not bound by this ruling, exploiting such a loophole would be deemed unethical. The Florida commission is expected to delve deeper into the matter during their upcoming meeting in the new year. Meanwhile, Benn is eyeing a return to action in February, with talks swirling around a potential showdown against Eubank Jr. The saga continues for Benn, whose boxing journey seems intertwined with drug testing controversies, adding another layer of anticipation and uncertainty to his future bouts.
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Nov 23 2023

Curmel Moton Boxing's Rising Star Aims to Emulate Mayweather's Legacy

Seventeen-year-old Curmel Moton stepped into the spotlight at T-Mobile Arena, exuding confidence adorned in black "TMT" gear, flanked by his idol and mentor, Floyd Mayweather. With a gold WBC medallion around his neck, he confidently addressed the reporters after a spectacular first-round stoppage in his professional debut. Moton, hailed as one of boxing's most promising talents, boasts an impressive amateur record of 144-6 and 18 national championships, all under the wing of Mayweather. Embracing the nickname "The Big Deal," he's a sensation on Instagram with over 390,000 followers, but it's his electrifying skills in the ring that truly captivate audiences. This young featherweight, backed by Mayweather Promotions, gears up for another bout at the Michelob Ultra Arena, eagerly seeking to emulate the pound-for-pound greatness of his mentor. Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions, expresses unwavering support, affirming that Moton's dedication and immersion in boxing since childhood have positioned him for greatness. Moton's journey into boxing was written in the stars. His father, a former fighter, uprooted their lives to Las Vegas when Moton was just five, ensuring his son's full immersion in the sport. Meeting Mayweather at eight years old marked the start of a mentorship that saw him practicing alongside boxing legends Floyd Sr. and the late Roger Mayweather. For Moton, boxing isn't just a sport; it's a way of life. From TikTok's whimsical dance videos to his earnest dedication in the ring, he embodies the duality of youthful exuberance and the ruthless precision demanded by prizefighting. Reflecting on his childhood passion for fighting and studying boxing legends since he was a toddler, Moton expresses, "It's my life." Mayweather echoes this sentiment, recognizing his younger self in Moton's enthusiasm, dedication, and exceptional skills, confidently declaring his destined path to becoming a world champion. In Moton's story, there's an undeniable thrill—a young prodigy emerging from Mayweather's tutelage, poised to carve his own legacy in the annals of boxing history. As he steps into the ring once more, all eyes are on Curmel Moton, the rising star eager to etch his name among the sport's elite.
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Nov 22 2023

Derek Chisora's Ever-Shifting Prediction for Fury vs. Usyk Undisputed Bout

Derek Chisora, a fighter who has shared the ring with both Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk, initially sided with Fury in the upcoming historic battle for the undisputed title. However, in a recent turn of events, Chisora seems to have changed his tune when discussing the highly anticipated clash between the two heavyweight titans. Initially, Chisora had confidently backed Fury, citing the Gypsy King's size and reach advantage as the factors that would secure an 'easy' victory over former cruiserweight king Usyk.  Chisora appeared more equivocal, expressing uncertainty about predicting the fight's outcome. Acknowledging the short camp period for both fighters and the challenges they face in preparing adequately, Chisora admitted it's become challenging to make a clear prediction. He highlighted the potential for injuries and the struggle for fighters to hit their rhythm, especially considering the recent postponement of the bout. Chisora emphasized the significance of Fury delivering a strong performance, citing the Gypsy King's last fight against Ngannou, where he secured victory but had an off day. Despite believing Fury won on the scorecards, Chisora stressed that in boxing, there's no room for off days if one aims to win convincingly. Interestingly, while assessing the upcoming clash, Chisora also expressed his ambition to face Ngannou himself, confident that he could secure a knockout victory. His insights into the Fury-Usyk bout hint at the unpredictability and high stakes of the boxing world, adding layers of anticipation to the much-anticipated showdown on February 17.
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Nov 22 2023

Deontay Wilder Slams Anthony Joshua's Communication Style, Hints at Fight's Future

Deontay Wilder has intensified the spotlight on the anticipated clash between him and Anthony Joshua, shedding light on the reasons behind the delay in their much-discussed showdown. In a recent interview with Mail Sport's The Hook, Wilder divulged insights into the dynamics between Joshua and his advisors, suggesting a disconnect in communication strategies that have hindered the potential mega-fight. Wilder candidly asserted that Joshua's management team has urged him to limit his public statements on boxing matters due to what Wilder describes as Joshua's tendency to "slip up." He claimed that Joshua's outspoken nature often leads to missteps that his team then needs to rectify, indicating a lack of alignment between Joshua's public discourse and his team's strategic messaging. The rift between the two heavyweight titans has been a long-standing saga, with negotiations for a fight lingering for years. Wilder disclosed that Joshua had turned down a substantial offer of $50 million (£40 million) to face him, blaming Joshua's management for impeding the potential blockbuster bout. Wilder's remarks shed light on the intricate dynamics and challenges in orchestrating high-stakes boxing matches, emphasizing the significance of cohesive communication and strategic alignment between fighters and their management teams. As the date of their separate fights approaches on December 23 in Saudi Arabia, the underlying tension between Wilder and Joshua continues to fuel anticipation for a future showdown, leaving fans eager for resolution in the ongoing saga between these two boxing giants. The interview further hinted at Wilder's confidence in the eventual realization of the fight, expressing a belief that the bout will indeed come to fruition, despite the hurdles and delays encountered in the negotiation process. Wilder's insights offer a glimpse into the complexities behind the scenes and the intricate balance between fighters' aspirations and managerial decisions in the high-stakes world of boxing.
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Nov 22 2023

Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren A First Meeting Marked by Long-Standing Rivalry

Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren, two boxing promoter titans known for their ongoing rivalry, recently had their first encounter. Despite years of verbal jabs and conflicting interests, the two met during the announcement of a significant boxing event in Saudi Arabia, bringing Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois under one roof for a mega-card.
Their long-standing feud, characterized by public exchanges and disagreements over fighters like Joshua and Tyson Fury, has been a centerpiece of boxing drama. Hearn revealed on talkSPORT that despite being in the same space as Warren previously, they had never exchanged greetings or handshakes in their 15 years as promoters. Reflecting on their first meeting orchestrated by George, Warren's son, Hearn humorously described it as a moment akin to parental intervention, emphasizing the tension that has surrounded their relationship. The conversation also touched on Warren's recent clash with a talkSPORT pundit, Adam Catterall, during a fiery defense of Fury. Hearn, who found himself siding with Warren during the interview, highlighted the need for preparedness in defending strong opinions and engaging in robust debates. This encounter sheds light on the intriguing dynamics and long-standing animosity within the boxing promotion world. Despite the professional nature of their meeting, the history of rivalry and tension between Hearn and Warren continues to be a captivating aspect of the sport, adding layers of drama and anticipation to future interactions between the two prominent figures.
 
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Nov 22 2023

Carl Froch's Concern Anthony Joshua's Struggle Beyond Boxing

Anthony Joshua's upcoming fight against Otto Wallin has stirred discussions beyond the ring. The matchup, set for December 23, marks Joshua's third fight this year, a departure from his usual schedule and an indicator of his determination to regain a world title at 34. However, former super middleweight champion Carl Froch has voiced concerns about Joshua's mindset and passion for the sport. Froch shared his thoughts on TalkSport Boxing, expressing doubts about Joshua's love for boxing, citing a perceived lack of motivation and a noticeable shift in fan support. Froch highlighted Joshua's upcoming bout against Wallin as a challenging test, acknowledging Wallin's impressive performance against Tyson Fury in 2019. Despite this, he questioned Joshua's drive, observing signs that indicate a decline in passion, such as a reluctance to engage in rigorous training and sparring sessions. The concern raised by Froch delves deeper into Joshua's mental state, suggesting a sense of unease or apprehension in the fighter. Froch refrained from speculating on potential mental health issues but conveyed a worry about Joshua's demeanor, describing him as someone on the brink of something uncertain. Additionally, Froch emphasized the impact of financial considerations on a boxer's motivations, hinting at the lure of significant earnings and how they might alter one's dedication to the sport. Beyond the boxing ring, Froch's observations invite reflection on the challenges athletes face beyond physical prowess, shedding light on the complex interplay between ambition, external pressures, and personal drive in the realm of professional sports.
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Nov 22 2023

Jermall Charlo's Remarkable Return A Fighter's Battle Beyond the Ring

After a prolonged hiatus from the boxing ring, Jermall Charlo, the WBC middleweight champion, gears up for an anticipated comeback on the David Benavidez-Demetrius Andrade card. This fight marks not just a sporting return but a personal triumph over mental health battles and substance abuse issues that kept him away for over two years. In a candid revelation, Charlo disclosed the struggles he faced during this hiatus – grappling with depression, substance abuse, and feeling isolated from the world. Yet, amid these trials, he found a path to healing and self-discovery, recognizing the importance of seeking help and building a support network. Now set to face Jose Jr., though not defending his title, Charlo's journey back to the ring signifies more than a physical comeback. It's a testament to resilience and newfound mental strength. He speaks of newfound patience, sobriety, and a clearer mind, highlighting a personal evolution that aligns with his return to boxing. However, Charlo's challenges extended beyond personal battles. His relationship with twin brother Jermell, a dominant force in boxing himself, faced strains leading up to Jermell's bout with Canelo Alvarez. Their differences and growing apart were public, but Charlo reveals a step towards reconciliation, acknowledging their distinct perspectives and the effort to mend their bond. As he steps back into the spotlight, Charlo's story echoes resilience, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health struggles and finding solace in personal growth. Beyond the punches thrown in the ring, this comeback represents a triumph of the human spirit, resonating far beyond the realms of boxing.
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Nov 21 2023

Former Liverpool Star Challenges Roy Keane to £1 Million Boxing Match Over Feud

Jason McAteer, the former Liverpool midfielder, has reignited a long-standing feud with ex-Manchester United captain Roy Keane by challenging him to a £1 million boxing match. The feud between the two former teammates dates back to 2002 when Keane, playing for Sunderland, was sent off for elbowing McAteer during a match at the Stadium of Light. Despite Keane denying any wrongdoing recently, McAteer responded by proposing the boxing challenge during punditry duty for beinSPORTS. McAteer, speaking out on their clash, emphasized the competitive nature of athletes and the tactics used to gain an edge, stating that knowing how to rattle opponents is part of the game. He recalled the heated incident, expressing disappointment over Keane's comments and suggesting that a boxing match could settle their differences. McAteer invited Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn to organize the showdown, highlighting the potential earnings of £1 million each for the bout. The former footballer highlighted his desire for closure, urging Keane to let bygones be bygones and opt for a civil resolution. McAteer shared his willingness to stop reacting if Keane chose to settle matters amicably. However, he reiterated the offer for the boxing match, calling on Keane to rise above the feud and consider a sporting showdown instead. The challenge thrown by McAteer to settle their long-standing disagreement in the boxing ring adds a new dimension to their history, raising eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. As the callout gains attention, the possibility of a high-stakes boxing match between the two former football stars becomes a topic of intrigue in the sports world.
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Nov 21 2023

Tszyu vs. Biggs Mind Games, Predictions, and Punters' Surprising Bets"

The buildup to the Tszyu vs. Biggs showdown has hit fever pitch with both fighters, their camps, and even punters adding fuel to the fire. Fox Sports Australia revealed an unexpected trend: 75% of Australian punters are tipping the underdog, Dylan Biggs, to secure a knockout victory against the highly touted Nikita Tszyu. This startling revelation arrives amidst intense exchanges between the fighters, brewing tensions that could explode on fight night. The pre-fight weigh-ins and staredowns escalated into verbal sparring, with both camps exchanging barbs. Tszyu's manager, Glen Jennings, criticized Biggs and his team for what he perceived as a lack of effort in promoting the fight, suggesting it might hinder future opportunities for the reigning Australian champion. In response, Biggs maintained his focus on the fight, downplaying the media hype and expressing confidence in his in-ring abilities. Adding to the drama, Biggs boldly stated he would become the first to stop a Tszyu on Australian soil, citing perceived signs of fear in his opponent during their face-off. He emphasized Tszyu's tendency to fade after the initial rounds, predicting a stoppage in the later rounds of the fight. Jennings and Tszyu's camp dismissed the ongoing controversies and media distractions, attributing them to attempts to alleviate pressure on the young Tszyu. While Tszyu's team accused Biggs of not contributing to promoting the event, Biggs defended his stance, emphasizing his commitment to performing inside the ring rather than in media appearances. In the betting world, surprising trends emerged, with the majority of wagers favoring Biggs to win by knockout or TKO, contrasting the predictions of many. The Method of Result market at TAB shows over 75% of the bets backing Biggs for a knockout victory, highlighting the unexpected confidence punters have in the underdog. As the countdown to fight night continues, the intense exchanges, mind games, and contrasting predictions heighten the anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling clash between Tszyu and Biggs, with both fighters eager to settle their differences in the ring.
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Nov 21 2023

Usyk Issues Warning to Fury After Heated Face-Off 'Don't Touch Me!''

  Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning WBA, WBO, IBF, and Ring Magazine heavyweight champion, has fired a clear warning shot at Tyson Fury ahead of their much-anticipated bout on February 17 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The tension escalated during their recent face-off at the OVO Arena Wembley press conference, where Fury unleashed a barrage of taunts and threats, aiming to unsettle Usyk. Fury, known for his flamboyant antics, engaged in verbal warfare, calling out Usyk and vowing to strip him of the belts he holds. Despite Fury's aggressive verbal assault, Usyk remained composed, smiling through the onslaught of insults. However, Usyk drew a line when Fury crossed it physically, prompting Usyk to issue a stern warning: "Don't touch me, please. We speak in the ring." Reflecting on the heated exchange, Usyk acknowledged Fury's mastery in the art of press conferences but emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries. While Usyk respects Fury and his team, he made it clear that physical contact is off-limits outside the ring, stating that while press conferences are a show, pushing boundaries won't keep him relaxed. Both fighters are heading into this clash with their own narratives. Fury seeks redemption after an underwhelming performance against Francis Ngannou, while Usyk faced controversy in his last bout against Daniel Dubois, where accusations of milking a low blow stirred debate despite his eventual victory. With tensions brewing and verbal salvos exchanged, the anticipation for this clash continues to grow. The showdown between two heavyweight titans promises fireworks in the ring, leaving fans eager to witness the culmination of this heated rivalry on February 17.
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Nov 21 2023

Lomachenko's Manager Confirms 2024 Return, Eyes Lightweight World Title Bout

Vasily Lomachenko, the renowned three-weight world champion, has been absent from the ring since his contentious fight against Devin Haney. Despite a close battle, which many believed Lomachenko won, the judges' decision went in Haney's favor, leaving Lomachenko on the sidelines. Amid speculation about Lomachenko's future in boxing, his manager, Egis Klimas, provided an update, assuring fans of Lomachenko's return in 2024. Klimas affirmed that following the disputed "loss," Lomachenko opted for a hiatus until the year's end, taking time off to relax and rejuvenate before delving back into the sport. Klimas emphasized that Lomachenko's return won't be for just any fight; the Ukrainian boxing maestro aims to vie for a world title in the lightweight division at 135 pounds. This could potentially set up showdowns against the likes of Shakur Stevenson, holder of the WBC belt, or a rematch against Haney, who holds the WBO, WBA, and IBF titles. With Haney eyeing a move to super-lightweight, openings for Lomachenko to contend for vacant belts might arise. The possibilities for intriguing matchups are abundant, including a clash with Stevenson, a rematch with Haney, or a test against Gervonta Davis. Notably, strong rumors circulate about a potential showdown with former unified champion George Kambosos Jr., fueling excitement among boxing enthusiasts. As anticipation builds for Lomachenko's return, the landscape in the lightweight division promises riveting encounters, with Lomachenko's quest for a world title adding further intrigue to his comeback narrative in 2024. Boxing fans eagerly await the confirmation of his next opponent and the eventual resumption of Lomachenko's quest for championship glory.
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Nov 21 2023

Joshua Hits Back at Wilder's Identity Remarks Ahead of Saudi Showdown

Anthony Joshua, the former two-time heavyweight champion, has strongly responded to recent comments made by rival Deontay Wilder, setting the stage for a high-stakes event on December 23 in Saudi Arabia where they will co-headline separate fights. Joshua, gearing up to face Otto Wallin, and Wilder, set to clash with Joseph Parker, have their sights set on potential collision should they secure victories. Wilder's recent remarks about Joshua's identity being shaped by outside forces have stirred the pot ahead of their potential face-off in 2024. Disagreeing vehemently with Wilder's statements, Joshua countered, expressing his confidence in his own journey. He dismissed Wilder's assertions by emphasizing his rapid ascent in the sport, stating, "Who the f--- is he? He’s a boxer, not a psychologist." The exchange between the two heavyweight giants has intensified the anticipation for their fights. Joshua, coming off victories against Jermaine Franklin and Robert Helenius this year, has highlighted his readiness and solidity in response to Wilder's claims. Wilder, returning to the ring after over a year since his last bout, aims to make a statement against Parker, while Joshua is poised to maintain his momentum. The clash of words between the two adversaries has only added fuel to the already blazing rivalry, promising an eventful showdown in Saudi Arabia. With emotions running high and stakes even higher, boxing enthusiasts eagerly await the December event to witness the outcomes of these pivotal fights and the potential trajectory toward a long-anticipated Joshua-Wilder showdown in the future.
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Nov 21 2023

Benavidez Hands Davis First TKO Loss Ahead of Showdown with Andrade

David Benavidez showcased his relentless prowess yet again by securing a TKO victory over Kyrone Davis, marking the first time Davis has been stopped in his career. Benavidez, known for his ferocity in the ring, displayed his signature style of overpowering his opponents, and this time, Davis was on the receiving end of his onslaught. As Benavidez continues his commanding ascent in the boxing world, attention now turns to his upcoming match against Demetrius Andrade on Saturday, November 25, set to air on Showtime Boxing PPV. The victory against Davis further solidifies Benavidez's reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the division. The bout against Davis served as another chapter in Benavidez's journey toward establishing supremacy, showcasing his ability to impose his will on formidable adversaries. Now, all eyes are on the highly anticipated clash with Andrade, where Benavidez aims to continue his winning streak and solidify his position among the elite in the boxing realm. With his commanding performance against Davis, Benavidez has heightened the anticipation surrounding the impending showdown with Andrade. Fans eagerly await this collision of talents, expecting fireworks as two accomplished fighters vie for supremacy in the ring. Benavidez's relentless pursuit of victory and his remarkable ability to impose his style on opponents create an electrifying narrative leading up to the pivotal bout against Andrade. The clash promises to be a spectacle, offering fans a display of skill, power, and determination as Benavidez seeks to further cement his place as a dominant force in the boxing world.
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Nov 21 2023

Tyson Fury's Explosive Outburst at Usyk

The much-anticipated clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight title has been marred by tensions, with Fury's co-promoter, Frank Warren, shedding light on the recent fiery press conference. Scheduled for February 17 in Saudi Arabia, the fight faced delays following Fury's intense bout with Francis Ngannou in October. Warren, addressing the press, disclosed that Fury's outburst stemmed from mounting frustrations accumulated over months of speculations and allegations, particularly claims of avoiding the fight by Usyk's camp. Refuting Alexander Krassyuk's statements, Warren clarified that it was Usyk's team who previously withdrew from the agreed fight last year. "Tyson's frustration boiled over at the press conference due to the constant irritation of doubters questioning the fight's legitimacy," Warren explained. "Despite the hurdles, the fight is confirmed for the 17th, and both Fury and Usyk are poised to deliver something extraordinary." Expressing Fury's determination, Warren emphasized his fighter's quest to prove himself as the best in the division, driven by a desire to secure a legacy. "Fury believes in his abilities and aims to be the undisputed champion, not for the label, but for the pride of achieving it," Warren added. "As his longtime promoter, I envision the pride he'll carry knowing he accomplished this feat for his family and legacy," Warren remarked. "The 17th will reveal the culmination of Fury's relentless pursuit of greatness, and I stand by him in this monumental endeavor." The article revisits the intensity of the press conference, highlighting Fury's frustrations and Warren's support, ultimately building anticipation for the monumental showdown between two heavyweight titans.
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Nov 21 2023

Potential Threats to Canelo Alvarez's Reign Hearn Names Three Fighters and the Staggering Price Tag for a Showdown"

Eddie Hearn, the formidable Matchroom promoter, has ignited the boxing world with his bold declarations regarding three fighters capable of challenging the seemingly invincible Canelo Alvarez. In an exclusive interview with FightHype, Hearn identified David Benavidez, Demetrius Andrade, and David Morrell as the trio poised to give the undisputed super middleweight champion a run for his money. With Canelo's recent dominant victory over Jermell Charlo, speculation swirls around his next opponent. The WBC hinted at David Benavidez potentially stepping into the ring as the official challenger should he defeat Demetrius Andrade on November 25. Hearn's anticipation for the Benavidez clash is palpable, acknowledging the formidable challenge the Mexican boxer presents to Canelo's supremacy. However, Hearn didn't stop at Benavidez, also highlighting the threats posed by Andrade and Morrell. In particular, Morrell, holding the WBA 'regular' title, is seen as a risky yet potentially less rewarding fight for Canelo due to his lower profile outside hardcore boxing circles. Hearn emphasized the obscurity factor, noting that Morrell lacks the broader recognition that could make the bout a lucrative draw. In his candid assessment, Hearn raised a pivotal question: Why would Canelo opt to face Morrell when the wider audience might not recognize the Cuban talent? He suggested that for such a high-risk fight, the compensation would need to be astronomical. Quoting Hearn, "if you want me to fight David Morrell, you'd better pay me an absolute fortune." The tantalizing prospect of Canelo facing off against these formidable opponents has set the stage for intense speculation and anticipation among boxing enthusiasts. As negotiations unfold and the landscape of the super middleweight division evolves, the prospect of witnessing Canelo tested by these challengers looms large, promising high-stakes drama and potential upsets in the world of elite boxing.
 
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Nov 20 2023

Bold Statement by Otto Wallin"I Hurt Tyson Fury, I Can Hurt Anthony Joshua"

Otto Wallin, remembered for his fierce bout against Tyson Fury in 2019, is gearing up for an unexpected showdown with Anthony Joshua on December 23rd in Saudi Arabia. The 32-year-old Swedish contender, despite his recent challenges in securing big fights, unexpectedly received the call for this high-profile clash, marking a significant opportunity to prove his mettle in the heavyweight division. Wallin's recent victory against Murat Gassiev laid the groundwork for what seemed like a quiet year's end, with plans set for the future. However, a surprising call from Joshua's camp altered his trajectory, catapulting him into a significant matchup against the former heavyweight champion. Although oddsmakers favor Joshua to dominate, Wallin is determined to defy expectations and make a statement. While not renowned for devastating knockout power, Wallin (26-1, 14 KOs) relies on his ability to wear opponents down and capitalize on opportunities. Recognizing Joshua's susceptibility in the past, Wallin intends to capitalize on any vulnerabilities in Joshua's defense. Though not actively seeking a knockout, Wallin is confident that landing significant shots could destabilize Joshua, exploiting any potential weaknesses in the former champion's chin. Joshua, a prominent figure in the division, presents a formidable challenge for Wallin. However, Wallin's strategic approach and belief in capitalizing on Joshua's perceived vulnerabilities add an intriguing dynamic to this upcoming clash. As Wallin gears up to face the accomplished Joshua, boxing enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the unexpected, given Wallin's determination to test the former champion's resilience in the ring.
 
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Nov 20 2023

Tyson Fury Shares Crucial Tip with Joseph Parker for Wilder Bout

Tyson Fury, the only man to secure victories over Deontay Wilder, has offered a crucial tip to Joseph Parker as he gears up to face the former WBC champion in Saudi Arabia on December 23. With Fury's expertise in overcoming Wilder's power, his guidance to his longtime training partner, Parker, holds weight ahead of this significant heavyweight clash. In an interview with Sky Sports, Fury kept his advice simple for Parker, recognizing Wilder's formidable punching prowess, boasting an astounding 42 knockouts out of 43 wins, with only one bout going the distance. While Wilder predicts an early finish to the fight, Fury's tip remains undisclosed, adding an air of anticipation to Parker's strategy against the Alabama knockout artist. Fury's track record against Wilder, triumphing over him twice after a contentious draw in their initial bout, positions him as a knowledgeable source for Parker to glean insights from. The upcoming event is being hailed as one of boxing's finest, featuring a stacked card showcasing the likes of Anthony Joshua, Otto Wallin, Dmitry Bivol, Daniel Dubois, Jai Opetaia, Jarrell Miller, and Filip Hrgovic, heightening the anticipation for Parker's showdown with Wilder. The advice from Fury, coupled with the anticipation surrounding the event's star-studded lineup, amplifies the excitement for this high-stakes clash in the heavyweight division. As Parker prepares to face the power of Wilder, Fury's guidance and the roster of elite fighters set to grace the event promise an electrifying night of boxing that fans eagerly await.
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Nov 20 2023

Andre Ward Criticizes WBC Over Francis Ngannou’s Controversial Ranking

Former two-weight world champion Andre Ward has openly criticized the WBC's decision to rank Francis Ngannou, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion, as the tenth best heavyweight in the world following his impressive boxing debut against Tyson Fury. Ward, known for his unblemished record in boxing, expressed strong reservations about the sanctioning bodies' handling of rankings, labeling it as a political move. In a recent interview on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Ward voiced his disagreement with Ngannou's placement, highlighting the disparity in treatment among fighters striving to enter the top 10 rankings. He condemned the notion of favoritism or backstage maneuvering influencing rankings, stressing that such decisions impact fighters' careers and livelihoods significantly. Ward, an Olympic Gold Medalist who retired undefeated, emphasized the importance of establishing oneself in the sport before earning such rankings, pointing out that Ngannou's impressive performance was a standalone event and not a consistent boxing track record. He criticized the sanctioning bodies for what he perceives as a lack of fairness and transparency, suggesting that the rankings wield substantial influence over fighters' career trajectories. The former boxing champion's remarks underscore the contentious nature of Ngannou's ranking and shed light on the broader issues within the sanctioning bodies' operations. As Ngannou balances commitments between MMA and a potential future in boxing, the aftermath of his WBC ranking remains a subject of scrutiny and debate within the combat sports community.
 
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Nov 20 2023

Mike Tyson Weighs In on Francis Ngannou’s Controversial WBC Ranking

  Mike Tyson, a former unified champion and a part of Francis Ngannou’s training team, has voiced his reaction to the WBC’s decision to include Ngannou in their top 10 heavyweight rankings following his boxing debut against Tyson Fury. Tyson expressed his disagreement, stating that the ranking was "too low" for the MMA star. Despite having just one professional boxing match, where Ngannou suffered a loss, his performance against Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia drew attention. Ngannou displayed remarkable resilience and even scored a knockdown in the third round, challenging the WBC champion before ultimately losing via a split decision. Tyson defended Ngannou's ranking, emphasizing the fighter's commendable effort against Fury, one of the greatest heavyweights in the sport's history. Tyson highlighted Ngannou’s courage in stepping into the boxing ring for the first time against such a formidable opponent, suggesting that the Cameroonian-Frenchman deserves greater recognition for his display. Ngannou’s future in boxing remains uncertain, given Fury's announcement of a highly anticipated undisputed showdown with Oleksandr Usyk on February 17th next year. Although a rematch with Fury is off the table for now, Ngannou previously committed to honoring a deal to compete in MMA within the Professional Fighters League. The reaction from boxing legend Mike Tyson adds fuel to the debate surrounding Ngannou's ranking, underscoring the MMA fighter's impact and the controversial nature of his placement in the esteemed WBC rankings after just one boxing bout. As Ngannou navigates between MMA and boxing, the sports world eagerly anticipates his next move, acknowledging the intrigue and speculation his prowess generates across combat sports.
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Nov 20 2023

Former World Champion Kal Yafai Retires After Knockout Loss in Comeback Bout

British boxing sensation Kal Yafai faced a sudden end to his comeback aspirations after a devastating first-round knockout by Jonathan Rodriguez in Los Angeles. Yafai, a former WBA super-flyweight world champion, announced his retirement immediately after the fight, affirming that this bout was always intended to be his final dance in the ring. The 34-year-old's comeback journey, following his initial career defeat in 2020, met an unexpected halt when he was swiftly floored by Rodriguez early in the fight. Despite his remarkable resilience, Yafai couldn't recover, prompting the referee to halt the contest within the opening round, leading to Rodriguez's jubilant celebrations. In a post-fight interview, Yafai expressed his premeditated decision to retire, donning a robe inscribed with 'The Last Dance,' symbolizing his farewell to the sport. Yafai's illustrious career began with Team GB at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, where his performances caught the eye of promoter Eddie Hearn, who guided his career until its conclusion. His crowning achievement came in 2016 when he clinched the WBA super-flyweight world title by defeating Luis Concepcion. Yafai defended his title successfully in five bouts before facing Nicaraguan legend Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in a highly anticipated showdown in February 2020, resulting in a dominant display by Chocolatito and a ninth-round knockout against Yafai. Returning to the ring in November 2022 after a hiatus, Yafai's performance seemed to lack the spark of his prime, despite securing a points win in his comeback. However, his vulnerabilities resurfaced in his recent fight against Rodriguez, leading to his pragmatic decision to retire from boxing, acknowledging that his time as a top-tier competitor had reached its natural conclusion.
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