Dmitry Bivol’s team has formally submitted a request to the four major boxing organizations (WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO), asking for an immediate rematch against Artur Beterbiev. This appeal, made on Wednesday, seeks to have the organizations intervene and order a new fight between the two boxers for the undisputed light heavyweight championship.

According to the letter sent, the request is based on the belief that a large portion of viewers expected a Dmitry Bivol victory. Bivol’s team has drawn parallels to the controversial Lennox Lewis vs. Evander Holyfield I fight, where many believed Lewis had won, but the result was a draw. The goal is for the rematch to provide a clear resolution, similar to what happened in that historic bout.

Bivol’s manager, Vadim Kornilov, confirmed they are still waiting for a response from the organizations. Kornilov also emphasized that one of the key points of the appeal is to review the scorecard of judge Pawel Kardyni, who scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Beterbiev. This score has generated controversy, and Bivol’s team believes it deserves a thorough review.Despite speculations, it was clarified that this action should not be interpreted as a formal protest.

It is simply a request for an immediate rematch, outlining the reasons why they believe the fight should take place again. Bivol’s lawyer, representing the boxer, stressed in the letter that the fight must happen again to clearly determine the undisputed champion.

Previously, it was reported that both Bivol and Kornilov were considering filing a formal protest after the controversy sparked by the unanimous decision in favor of Beterbiev in their first fight. Bivol’s team made it clear they were dissatisfied with the 116-112 scorecard, which they consider unjust.

Dmitry Bivol’s team remains firm in their stance and is determined to seek a fair resolution for their fighter. It is now up to the regulatory organizations to respond to this request and decide whether a rematch will take place.‼️ Dmitry Bivol’s team have reportedly now officially filed protests with all four sanctioning bodies (WBA, WBC, IBF & WBO) against the Artur Beterbiev result, seeking an immediate rematch. [According to @JakeNDaBox]

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 16, 2024Three-division world champion handed a one-year ban

Additionally, Bivol’s manager Vadim Kornilov confirmed they are still seeking a response regarding their request to review judge Pawel Kardyni’s 116-112 scorecard. https://t.co/J1gMO8k5zm

— Jake Donovan (@JakeNDaBox) October 16, 2024

FYI: It is NOT lodged as a “protest.” It is a request for an immediate rematch outlining reasons Team Bivol believes one should be ordered. https://t.co/ZsR6yQrJKo

In a recent interview with Box Nation, former world champion Amir Khan made clear his desire to return to the ring. The Briton, who retired after a defeat in 2022, expressed interest in a high-profile match against Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao. In his statements, Khan didn’t hide his enthusiasm for the potential fight, emphasizing the magnitude that a bout between the two would have.

“Amir, what’s going on with you and Manny Pacquiao?” the interviewer asked, directly addressing Khan. “I know Manny says he wants to fight, I’ll take the fight, I mean, let’s make it happen.” Khan highlighted how significant the fight between the two retired fighters would be, pointing out that despite their retirements, a match between them would still attract many fans.

“You know how big of a fight that would be? It’d be massive. I mean, it’d be good to come back and sell out Arenas again,” Khan added.

Khan, who will turn 38 in December, hopes that the fight could be arranged early next year. Pacquiao, now 44, has yet to comment on the matter, although the Filipino legend has shown interest in staying active with exhibition fights since his retirement in 2021.Amir Khan and Manny Pacquiao

The highly anticipated match between the two is not a new concept. Several years ago, the fighters announced on social media that a fight was scheduled to take place in the Middle East. However, the event was canceled due to a lack of proof of funds from the promoters. Despite the cancellation of that first attempt, Khan’s interest appears to have been reignited.

Amir Khan has not competed since being brutally stopped by his rival Kell Brook in February 2022. As for Manny Pacquiao, he retired after losing by unanimous decision to Yordenis Ugas in August 2021. However, Pacquiao has participated in several exhibition fights since then, keeping the possibility of one last big fight alive.In a March interview this year with NordicBet, Pacquiao’s advisor, Sean Gibbons, left the door open for a fight between the Filipino and Khan.

According to Gibbons, there had been interest in making the fight happen in the past, but Pacquiao temporarily retired to focus on his political career.

“There was interest in the past, and there were opportunities,” Gibbons remarked. “But unfortunately, when there was a chance to do it, Manny retired to run for president.” However, Gibbons did not rule out the possibility of the fight happening if there is a promoter willing to pay. “If someone said tomorrow that they want to see Manny Pacquiao take on Amir Khan in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, or England, then of course Manny is up for all of this,” Gibbons expressed.Undefeated boxer wants to fight Artur Beterbiev

Gibbons added that Pacquiao is likely in the final year of his career, highlighting the love Pacquiao has for boxing. “This is a final swansong for Manny,” the advisor concluded, suggesting that a fight against Khan could be an ideal opportunity to close out his legendary career.

With Pacquiao still active in exhibition matches and Khan eager to return to the ring, the possibility of the two facing off remains open. The key, as Gibbons pointed out, will be finding the right financial backing to organize an event of this magnitude.

Time will tell if we’ll finally see these two boxing legends step back into the ring in 2024.

Bill Haney, father and trainer of boxing champion Devin Haney, has ignited social media by launching a strong critique against boxer Ryan Garcia. Using his official Instagram account, Bill posted an image in his stories warning about the risks of steroid use, accompanied by a direct message to Garcia.

In the Instagram story, Bill Haney wrote: “@RyanGarcia, some of us rely on skills, others rely on shortcuts. We’ll keep it clean while you clean up your mess. 💉 #NoShortcuts #Cleanwins #Haneystrong.” This message directly references the controversies surrounding Garcia, who was recently suspended for doping.

The tension between the two camps is not new. Devin Haney’s team has made it clear that a rematch against Ryan Garcia will only be possible if the latter undergoes a strict Olympic-style anti-doping program. This condition was imposed due to Garcia’s recent history with banned substances. Bill Haney gave Garcia a 48-hour deadline to enroll in the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) program. This is aimed at ensuring a clean fight after Garcia’s doping suspension ends in April.

Simultaneously, Devin Haney also joined the discussion on social media. On his X account (formerly Twitter), Devin posted a cryptic message: “They know I’m coming…” Although Devin didn’t elaborate further, Ryan Garcia quickly responded, using the mocking tone that has characterized their rivalry: “No they don’t,” replied Garcia.

The rivalry between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney began in 2023, but it has reached its peak in 2024. Earlier this year, Devin Haney filed a lawsuit against Garcia, accusing him of assault, fraud, and unjust enrichment. The lawsuit was filed after a failed drug test affected the outcome of their fight.

The bout, which was initially decided by a majority in favor of Garcia, was later declared a “no-contest” when it was revealed that Garcia had tested positive for Ostarine, an anabolic steroid, both on the weigh-in day and the fight day. This scandal has severely damaged Ryan Garcia’s reputation and further fueled tensions between the two boxers and their teams.Undefeated boxer wants to fight Artur Beterbiev

With this new escalation on social media and Bill Haney’s insistence on ensuring a clean fight through anti-doping controls, the path to a potential rematch between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia seems increasingly fraught with obstacles. Garcia’s response, or his lack of commitment to the Haney team’s demands, will be key in determining whether the much-anticipated rematch will happen.Devin Haney’s father/trainer Bill Haney firing shots at Ryan Garcia today… pic.twitter.com/oBcUTbAGRa

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 16, 2024

No they don’t https://t.co/HF7cLO8nqL

— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) October 15, 2024

It has recently been reported that EA Sports is working on a new boxing video game. The company has taken note of the success of Undisputed, a new boxing game that has generated significant interest within the gaming community. At the same time, it recognizes that there is a market for boxing games, especially with the resurgence of interest in the sport in various regions of the world. The rise of boxing in the Middle East, along with renewed interest in the UK, presents opportunities for a successful launch.

According to Mike Straw on “The Mike Straw Show,” sources close to him have confirmed that EA Sports is once again working on a recognized franchise. The company has restarted development on Fight Night, although there is no specific release date. Despite hopes for the game to be released this year, sources suggest that the release window could extend to three to four years. Players may have to wait until 2027 to see the game on current generation consoles like Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.

As Fight Night progresses, EA Sports is also working on UFC 6. Unlike the boxing franchise, which requires individual licenses, UFC has a contract that mandates compliance with certain release dates. This could result in UFC 6 hitting the market before Fight Night. Despite these challenges, EA has the freedom to create a boxing game without commitments to specific organizations.

Similarly, Straw noted that there are rumors about a potential crossover between Fight Night and UFC, which could attract even more players. EA has high expectations for both titles and is striving to meet public demands. The development of Fight Night has been intermittent, but the company assures that it has not been canceled; it has simply been on pause.

An exciting aspect of the development of Fight Night is the possibility of including recognized boxers like Tyson Fury or Jake Paul. EA has been in talks with the teams of both athletes, which could elevate the game’s profile. Additionally, EA would not face issues acquiring licenses, as they have good resources to invest in this. The inclusion of famous figures could attract a broader player base.EXCLUSIVE: Brit vows to give Fabio Wardley ‘a boxing lesson’ despite Clarke KO

As Fight Night moves toward its final development stages, fans must be patient and maintain realistic expectations. The franchise has faced challenges in the past, but it now seems to be in a better position to return to the market.EA Sports have reportedly now put a new Fight Night boxing game “back on the table” and are working on reviving the franchise after seeing the level of interest in the Undisputed boxing game. [According to @MikeStrawMedia]

— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) October 16, 2024

Emanuel Steward, Thomas Hearns, Lennox Lewis – just some of the influential boxing figures that come to mind when the name ‘KRONK’ is mentioned.

A style of fighting, a mentality, and a pillar of boxing around the globe, the Detroit gym trained over 40 world champions and gained a worldwide reputation for building and crafting some of boxing’s biggest names, but the famous gold and red resonated with fans for more than just it’s fighters, until it’s devastating closure.

Now, the gym is hopeful of a comeback.

The KRONK gym opened in 1921, but it was during the 1970’s where a plethora of local Detroit talent descended upon the world stage, each from humble beginnings representing a humble gym, and the KRONK name soon became a well-known boxing enterprise. Led by Steward and spearheaded by Hilmer Kenty, Thomas Hearns and Mickey Goodwin, Kenty became KRONK’s first world champion in 1980 with a stoppage win over Ernesto Espana for the WBA lightweight title, only for Hearns to follow suit just five months later with a second-round knockout of Jose Cuevas for the WBA welterweight crown.

The success of Hearns and others throughout the 1980’s rippled throughout the gym and saw them explode onto the world scene, by the 1990’s, KRONK became an attractive proposal to the top fighters in the world, even if just for one training session in order to experience a taste of life under Steward.

After years of continued success led by Hearns, eventual three-time heavyweight world champion Lennox Lewis became KRONK’s new poster boy once Hearns’ time at the top came to an end, and ‘The Lion’ represented a new example of what it meant to be a part of the now booming stable in downtown Detroit.

An Olympic gold medallist with a traditional style, Steward converted a soft Lewis jab into one of the strongest the world had ever seen, utilizing the left-hand power of the British-Canadian by changing his jab into a punch with mean intentions rather than just a set-up shot – but also using it to open up opportunities for a signature straight right-hand.In the rematch with Hasim Rahman, Lennox Lewis controlled the distance with jab, beautifully mixing in the left hook which would later set up the finish.

What’s your favourite rematch win?#boxingpic.twitter.com/0OYBkHMSRZ

— Steve Boxman (@SteveBoxman) August 27, 2024

The versatility of Lewis saw Steward also transition as a trainer, changing from encouraging a front-footed aggressive approach to a more rounded, patient and selective strategy that was destructively efficient at the correct times.

However, despite their fabled success inside of the ring, KRONK could not escape the local struggles outside of it and the gym closed down in 2006 – thieves stealing copper pipes from the site when it was on its knees ultimately proving to be the final straw – a sign of the times in Detroit.

Steward’s death in 2012 devastated the world of boxing but it left KRONK lost. How could an institute that is epitomised by its trainer survive and be reborn without him?

Many investors have previously attempted to return KRONK to greatness, but now there is a team who hopes of bringing KRONK back to big-time boxing, and they have a plan to make it happen. After working closely with Emanuel’s wife, Marie Steward and his daughter, Sylvia Steward, Paul Bhatti now finds himself leading a diverse team that is committed to returning KRONK to the bright lights of boxing.

After 31 years in the IT industry, Bhatti & Team successfully purchased the Intellectual Property (IP) of the KRONK brand. Bhatti, the Manchester-born and Metro Detroit-based boxing fanatic, is now the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and he admitted to that this was an opportunity that he could not refuse.

“Having had pictures of KRONK fighters on my bedroom wall as a kid, to get the opportunity to officially own the KRONK IP with my amazing team, is an absolute honour! We are all focused to execute upon on our vision, to bring KRONK back into the mainstream.”

So, what is it exactly that KRONK needs? The answer is simple. As ever, KRONK needs world champions, and it needs to eventually breed its own.

As Bhatti confirmed with , talks are already underway for KRONK to bring back some of the elite trainers from the KRONK lineage, to ensure that boxing fans around the world will once again be thrilled with the exciting KRONK style that Emanuel Steward made famous. Like Steward before them, Bhatti and Team are committed to first perfect the foundations before rushing to a return to the peak of the sport.

To maintain and instil the same morals into every member of the KRONK family, employees or fighters is to ensure that every decision is carried out in the manner that Emanuel Steward would wish for. A key move from Bhatti has been to keep the Steward family at the heart of the business. Marie has been named as a Founder Emeritus whilst Sylvia, one of two of Steward’s daughters, has been brought on board as a business consultant.

Though both Marie and Sylvia are family members by blood, John Lepak was an integral part of the KRONK family that saw it boom during its heyday and he is a critical addition at the core of the relaunch, believing the newly formed team, in which he acts as the Chief Operating Officer (COO), to be capable of doing his mentor, Steward, justice.

“Life has truly come full circle. Starting out as a 16-year-old kid running errands for Emanuel, training in the original gym, working alongside so many of our great champions, and eventually serving on the promotional team for some of the highest-grossing fights in boxing history, I truly thought I had reached the mountain top.

“This opportunity presents another mountain to climb. While no one will ever be able to duplicate what Emanuel did, I believe he left KRONK in a position where we can now grow the brand in areas he had dreamed of”

Meanwhile, Bhatti has recognised the importance of adapting with the times and looking towards the future as much as reminiscing of past successes, adding Amer Abdallah. A former undefeated world champion kickboxer and a respected figure in the combat sports world, Abdallah has played a pivotal role in the development of boxing in the Middle East, he assumes the position as a Managing Partner and Vice President of International Business, as KRONK looks towards global expansion and the opening of gyms overseas.

“The relaunch of the world’s most iconic brand in boxing gives me tremendous pride to be involved with. KRONK will be expanding around the globe and will continue to build upon its rich history and legacy.”

Yet, despite the exciting appointments, the names mean nothing without a plan of action and thankfully that is what Bhatti is most excited about.

When asked of what he and KRONK are working towards in the immediate future, Bhatti identified the current focal areas of his strategy, and much like any boxer kickstarting their career with victories against journeymen, explained that he is looking for ‘foundational wins’ before jumping the gun and competing at the world level.

“Our vision for KRONK’s resurgence is clear and methodical. We’re starting with foundational wins, like launching a revitalized website and introducing an updated merchandise line, to help re-establish our brand’s presence. We’re also actively exploring strategic licensing opportunities to unlock new revenue streams, and we’re reviewing prime locations in the heart of Detroit for our new flagship gym.

“These steps are critical for reintroducing KRONK to a new generation of fans and markets, building on our legacy while positioning the brand for growth in today’s landscape.”

Whilst Bhatti and the new KRONK team are infectiously ambitious, it is important to note that the road to the top is an arduous one and will likely take years of dedication and diligent decision-making. KRONK has the branding that could prove key to success, and if Bhatti and his new team can accomplish half of what Steward did then they will surely be proud of their restoration job.

Yet, as Steward famously stated, ‘those not fit do not survive’ in the world of boxing and KRONK will need to prove that they are more than just a name if they are to make the return that they are envisaging.

British boxer Adam Azim is confident that his upcoming fight against Ohara Davies will be key in proving he’s a world-class boxer. While preparing for this significant challenge, Azim is also setting his sights on high-profile matchups in 2025, including potential fights against Harlem Eubank and Dalton Smith.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Azim expressed his interest in these future bouts, though he acknowledges that they are more likely to happen next year. “Those two fights might happen next year, Harlem and Dalton,” the young boxer said. He emphasized the importance of securing the fight against Davies first before thinking about other opponents. “There are two big names I want to fight next year, but I’ve got to get this fight done, which is Ohara Davies,” Azim added.

The fight between Azim and Davies is set for this Saturday at the Copper Box Arena in East London. Given Davies’ punching power, Azim considers him a more dangerous opponent than Eubank, whom he also hopes to face in the future. “It’s a more dangerous fight, but I know not to try and get hit in there. My aim is to hit and not get hit,” explained Azim.Adam Azim’s rivalry with Dalton Smith has a long history.

He was scheduled to fight Harlem Eubank earlier this year, but an incident delayed the bout. The fight was planned for June 15, but Azim suffered an injury while running, which forced the match to be postponed. His trainer, Shane McGuigan, explained that the “freak accident” occurred when Adam Azim twisted his ankle after stepping in a pothole.

Due to this delay, Eubank sought other opponents. However, both Azim and McGuigan believe that the fight could still happen in the future. “I don’t think we’re going to fight each other this year, doesn’t look like it. He’s got a fight coming up. He might want to fight again by the end of the year, but it looks like it’s going to happen next year,” Azim said.

Davies, for his part, presents himself as a dangerous rival with experience in world title fights. Although Davies has suffered past defeats at the hands of Josh Taylor, Jack Catterall, and Ismael Barroso, his power remains a serious threat to Azim. “It’s a step up. It’s a bigger fight, I believe, and with bigger fights, there’s greater risk, but there’s also greater reward if you come out and look spectacular,” McGuigan remarked.

Adam Azim, on the other hand, is fully focused on this bout. He is determined to show that he’s ready to face the best in the world. “I’ve matured as a fighter. I’ve improved a lot. My game—I’ve got reflexes, fast hands, but I also bring other things in, like my inside fighting as well,” Azim stated.

By securing a victory over Ohara Davies, Adam Azim believes he can position himself as a strong world title contender. His goal is for that opportunity to come sometime in 2025. In the meantime, Azim remains focused on his upcoming fight, knowing that a decisive win will bring him closer to his ultimate goal. “My eye is just fully focused on Ohara Davies,” Azim concluded.

Manchester light heavyweight amateur boxer Conner Tudsbury has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, marking a significant step in his boxing career. Under the guidance of Eddie Hearn, Tudsbury will make his highly anticipated professional debut in mid-2025. At just 24 years old, this young talent is recognized as one of Britain’s top boxing prospects and is eager to showcase his skills in the professional ranks.

Tudsbury began his boxing journey at the age of eight, training at the renowned Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club. There, he honed his technique and discipline, leading him to represent both England and the Great Britain team. Among his notable achievements is a bronze medal earned at the Youth World Championships in Hungary in 2018.

In this new phase of his career, Tudsbury will train at the VIP Gym in Astley, working closely with respected coaches Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis.

Expressing his excitement about the signing, Tudsbury stated, “I’m thrilled to sign with the biggest promotional company in the world. I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. I want to be as active as possible, work my way up, and learn the tricks of the pro game.”

Tudsbury emphasized his confidence in his coaching team, highlighting the great respect that Moore and Travis have earned in the boxing world. “I’ve grown up with them, so I know they’re great people and great coaches. They’ll take me far,” he said.

Eddie Hearn, president of Matchroom Sport, shared his enthusiasm for Tudsbury’s signing, noting, “Conner had an excellent schooling at the famous Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club before excelling for England and Team GB. He possesses all of the attributes to quickly establish himself as a fan favorite – frightening power and slick skills.”

Hearn also expressed confidence in the support that Moore, Travis, and fellow manager Sam Jones will provide Tudsbury, stating they will help him further develop his abilities. He eagerly anticipates seeing Tudsbury in action in 2025.

Sam Jones, one of Tudsbury’s managers, confidently declared that within 18 months, his boxer would solidify his position as the best light heavyweight in Britain. “He possesses frightening knockout power to complement his brilliant boxing skills, so I really believe the fans will love him,” Jones concluded.

As 2025 approaches, Conner Tudsbury is preparing to make a significant impact in the professional boxing scene with the backing of his top-tier team.

#ConnerTudsbury #MatchroomBoxing #ProfessionalDebut #BoxingProspect #LightHeavyweight #BoxingNews #EddieHearn #FutureChampion #BoxingLife #AmateurBoxing

Wales has a rich boxing legacy for a nation of its size, boasting champions like Joe Calzaghe, Jimmy Wilde, and Steve Robinson, who have proudly represented their country on the global stage. Now, one of Wales’ more recent contenders, Liam Williams, has decided to hang up his gloves at the age of 32.

Williams transitioned to the professional ranks following a stellar amateur career, quickly challenging for the British super-welterweight title in just his 14th professional bout. The Clydach-born 154-pounder achieved this milestone with a second-round knockout of Kris Carslaw and followed it up with another knockout victory over Gary Corcoran. Williams appeared to be on course for a world title shot after adding the European title to his accolades by halting Gabor Gorbics.

However, back-to-back bouts against Liam Smith resulted in consecutive defeats for Williams, the first of which ended due to a severe eye injury while he was leading on the scorecards. This setback dashed his dreams of a super-welterweight world title shot. Undeterred, ‘The Machine’ moved up to the middleweight division, where he became a two-weight British champion by knocking out Mark Heffron for the vacant Lonsdale Belt.

After one successful title defense, Williams added three more wins to extend his knockout streak to seven consecutive stoppages, positioning himself for a long-awaited world title challenge. Unfortunately, he fell short against the undefeated Demetrius Andrade for the WBO middleweight title but returned home to a hero’s welcome before facing off against Chris Eubank Jr. in a grudge match in 2022.

A nightmare start led to a unanimous-decision loss for Williams, yet he felt he still had plenty to give in the division. He bounced back with victories over Nizar Trimech and Florin Cardos, both ending in early knockouts. However, at the beginning of this year, he faced the highly-rated Hamzah Sheeraz, who dominated Williams, handing him a first-round defeat—the first time Williams had ever been truly stopped in his career.

Today, Williams confirmed his decision to retire from boxing, citing concerns over his health and remaining ability. He has chosen to prioritize his family, acknowledging that a world title may no longer be within reach. "I trust the people around me, and when they tell you it’s over, you have to listen," he told the BBC. "It was very hard to hear."

Williams recounted his struggles with concussions, stating, “I had three or four in 18 months. I don’t want to box just for money and risk a head injury I can never recover from. I’ve got a lovely family and partner. If I can’t enjoy my life with them due to brain damage, what would it be for?”

He expressed concern over his diminishing punch resistance: “Heavy sparring, heavy hits—my resistance to punches is not as good, and the risks are just too great. Some hits you can’t come back from.”

With a heartfelt farewell, everyone at boxing is congratulating Liam Williams on an outstanding professional career and wishing him the best in whatever comes next.

#LiamWilliams #BoxingRetirement #HealthFirst #ConcussionAwareness #WalesBoxing #BoxingLegacy #FamilyFirst #BoxingCommunity #FormerChampion #CareerEndingDecision

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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.