In the heart of Phoenix, the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera, a Mexican Hall of Famer known for epic rematches, shared his wisdom with BoxingScene. Barrera, who engaged in thrilling trilogies with Erik Morales and faced off against Manny Pacquiao, offered insights ahead of the ESPN card featuring Emanuel Navarrete and Oscar Valdez.

Reflecting on past battles, Barrera emphasized the need for fighters like Valdez and Ramirez to evolve their strategies. "Try not to do the same fight, try to avoid the same plan," Barrera advised. With opponents having studied their styles, adaptability is key to success in the ring.

Barrera acknowledged the stubborn nature of boxers, recognizing the challenge of changing tactics. "Ninety percent, we can't change. There is a stubbornness, our cajones," he remarked. However, he believed that Valdez, with his experience and skill, could implement a revised game plan effectively.

The upcoming Navarrete-Valdez rematch promises excitement, with Navarrete looking to redeem himself after a recent loss. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum's comments added fuel to the anticipation, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown. Navarrete's determination was evident, promising a fierce battle in the ring.

As the fight approaches, Barrera expressed optimism for Valdez's chances, highlighting the need for strategic flexibility. Recognizing Valdez's intelligence and Olympic background, Barrera envisioned a path to victory by tapping into his past successes. The potential for an epic showdown between Valdez and Navarrete loomed large, with Barrera refraining from making a prediction but expressing confidence in Valdez's abilities.

Looking ahead, Barrera shared his excitement for Espinoza's prospects and the potential for a future clash with Naoya Inoue. The prospect of Mexican boxers reaching new heights fueled Barrera's optimism, underscoring the resilience and talent that define the boxing world. As the stage is set for thrilling matchups and historic moments, the boxing world eagerly awaits the showdowns that lie ahead.

Gervonta "Tank" Davis is no stranger to the ring in Washington, D.C. Having started his career in the D.C. Armory and fought in the area multiple times, including a sold-out show at the Capital One Arena, he's practically a hometown hero. However, with a rivalry brewing between D.C. and Baltimore, where Davis hails from, his upcoming title defense against Lamont Roach Jnr adds an extra layer of intensity to the mix.

When the fighters faced off at the press conference at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium, the atmosphere was electric. Roach's supporters made their presence known, but Davis wasn't about to back down. The banter between the two fighters escalated as they discussed representing their cities and predicting knockout rounds.

As Roach's fans voiced their opinions, Davis didn't hold back, promising to silence them in the ring. The tension between the two only grew, setting the stage for an explosive showdown on fight night. With emotions running high and pride on the line, this battle between D.C. and Baltimore is about more than just a title – it's personal.

In the world of boxing, there comes a time when a man faces a defining moment that can lead to greatness. Rafael Espinoza seized his moment a year ago, and since then, the challenges he's faced have seemed less daunting.

This Saturday night, fans will witness a rematch between Mexico's Espinoza and Cuba's Robiesy Ramirez in a highly anticipated co-main event. Their previous battle ended with Espinoza claiming victory in the 12th round, a victory that resonated deeply with his fellow countrymen.

Reflecting on his triumph, Espinoza shared, "One thing I noticed is my mind is stronger than my body. I just kept going. I knocked him down. I was on him." His resilience and determination earned him praise from boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera, who remarked, "That stamped him as a Mexican."

As Espinoza gears up for his upcoming bout, the anticipation is palpable. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum hailed him as a Mexican hero, highlighting his remarkable comeback in the previous fight despite suffering an early ankle injury. The fans want to see Espinoza in action again, knowing that he will deliver an unforgettable performance.

Trainer Manny Robles revealed a pivotal moment when Espinoza refused to give up after injuring his ankle during the last fight. His unwavering determination to become a world champion propelled him forward, culminating in a stunning victory over Sergio Chirino Sanchez in his subsequent bout.

Confident and prepared for the rematch, Espinoza is focused on building upon his past successes. He emphasized, "I'm bringing the same energy from the 12th round to this second fight because that's what made me win the championship." With improved training and a solid game plan, Espinoza is poised for another impressive performance.

Looking ahead, Espinoza is determined to make his mark in the featherweight division and potentially face off against the likes of Naoya Inoue. As he sets his sights on unifying the belts, Espinoza knows that a victory on Saturday will bring him one step closer to his ultimate goal.

With the boxing world watching closely, all eyes are on Espinoza as he prepares to showcase his skills and determination in the ring once again.

Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach Jnr are about to step into the ring once again after more than a decade since their last amateur bout. The upcoming showdown on March 1 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, promises to be a thrilling clash between two vastly evolved fighters.

Roach, reflecting on his growth since their last encounter, expressed, "I got better in every aspect. I'm older, more mature, and a better boxer than I was before." Davis, undefeated with an impressive record of 30-0, acknowledged Roach's improvement, recognizing him as "world-class better."

Both fighters have come a long way since their early days in the ring. Roach highlighted his overall development, stating, "I'm the total package, and honestly sometimes I think he doubts himself." On the other hand, Davis remains confident in his abilities, ready to analyze Roach's strengths and counter them effectively during the fight.

The anticipation is high as these two skilled boxers prepare to face off once again. Roach believes that they both understand the challenge ahead, ensuring an electrifying showdown for fans eagerly awaiting this long-awaited rematch.

Get ready for a knockout night as trainer Robert Garcia, the man who's making waves in the boxing world, is set to bring a powerhouse of five fighters to the upcoming Top Rank card at the Footprint Center in Phoenix. From rising stars to seasoned contenders, Garcia's crew is ready to set the ring on fire.

Garcia, a top contender for the Boxing Writers Association of America Trainer of the Year award, has some exciting updates on his star fighters. Undefeated junior bantamweight champion Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez is eyeing a unification bout in May, targeting the winner of the WBA or IBF title fights. According to Garcia, "Whatever champion, whoever's available."

In another corner, WBC interim junior middleweight titleholder Vergil Ortiz Jr. is gearing up to face off against Israil Madrimov. Garcia expressed surprise at the matchup, considering Madrimov's recent tough fight. "I find it very hard to believe he can get through two very hard training camps and be at 100 percent. To see those fights lined up is too hard to believe."

Among the fighters Garcia will be cornering on Saturday is lightweight contender Giovanni Santillan, who is making a comeback after a setback. Garcia believes Santillan is mentally prepared and ready to deliver a stellar performance against Fredrick Lawson.

Junior lightweight Albert "Chop Chop" Gonzalez is another standout prospect under Garcia's wing. Garcia has high praise for Gonzalez, highlighting his exceptional skills and determination. "He's one of the special ones. He has so much discipline... He has tools, power, defense, speed, everything."

Veteran Lindolfo Delgado, ranked in the top 15 by multiple organizations, is hungry for a breakthrough moment in his fight against Jackson Marinez. Garcia is confident that Delgado will shine when faced with a formidable opponent who brings out the best in him.

With a lineup of promising fighters, including newcomers Cesar Morales and Art Barrera Jr., Garcia is ready to showcase the talent and tenacity of his team. As Garcia puts it, "Keep an eye on these kids - they can fight."

As the anticipation builds for an action-packed night, Garcia credits his assistant trainers for their support in managing the busy schedule. With a mix of seasoned contenders and rising stars, Garcia's fighters are set to dazzle the audience and leave a lasting impact in the boxing world.

In a whirlwind fifteen years, the world has seen immense changes, from Michael Jackson's passing to Barack Obama's inauguration, and the rise of "Avatar" as a box office champion. Amidst this social evolution, even the realm of boxing hasn't been immune to transformation.

Back in 2009, opening up about mental health struggles was a rarity in the boxing world. It took courage for fighters like Tyson Fury and Sugar Ray Leonard to share their inner battles. Darren Sutherland, a promising Irish boxer with a bright future, revealed the hidden loneliness behind the glitz and glamor of his career.

During an interview, Sutherland confessed, "It's lonely." This revelation shed light on the unseen pressures and struggles he faced despite external success. His vulnerability made him relatable, yet it was a stark reminder of the silent battles many fighters endure.

Tragically, Sutherland's story took a devastating turn when he took his life in 2009. His untimely death shocked the boxing community and left a void where a promising career once flourished. His coach, Brian Lawrence, still recalls Sutherland's immense talent and the potential he held to become a world champion.

Sutherland's passing highlighted the harsh realities fighters face behind closed doors. The pressures of performance, public scrutiny, and isolation can take a toll on mental well-being. Johnny Nelson, a former world champion, empathized with Sutherland's struggles in navigating the lonely path of a fighter.

The aftermath of Sutherland's death reverberated throughout the boxing world, prompting a shift towards destigmatizing mental health discussions among fighters. His legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health challenges in a sport known for its toughness.

Despite the tragic end to his story, Darren Sutherland's memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Fighters like James DeGale honor his legacy, recognizing his strength and the impact he had on those around him. Sutherland's narrative serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging a more open dialogue on mental health within the boxing community.

In a sport where solitude and struggles often go hand in hand, Darren Sutherland's story stands as a testament to the hidden battles fighters face and the importance of reaching out for help. His memory serves as a beacon, reminding us to prioritize mental well-being and support one another in times of need.

WBA junior-welterweight champion, Jose "Rayo" Valenzuela, is taking legal action to break free from his management agreement in a dramatic move filed in Southern California. The lawsuit targets his former trainer and manager, Jose Benavidez Snr, and boxing attorney David Garcia, aiming to release Valenzuela from a binding contract that extends until Christmas Eve 2026, requiring him to pay 33 and 1/3 per cent of his earnings to the management team.

After securing a significant victory over Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz, Valenzuela made a strategic shift to trainer Robert Garcia. With an upcoming title defense against Gary Antuanne Russell, tensions rise as Valenzuela navigates this legal battle without Benavidez Snr and Garcia in his corner.

The lawsuit delves into the complexities of boxing management agreements and questions the licensing requirements for managers in the sport. Valenzuela's legal team argues that the contract is "illegal, unenforceable, and invalid," setting the stage for a potentially groundbreaking legal showdown.

As the legal saga unfolds, Valenzuela's attorneys, led by Joel M. Siegel and Blake L. Osborn, are pushing for transparency and seeking clarity on the ethical implications of attorneys doubling as boxing managers without proper licensing. The lawsuit challenges the dual representation of conflicting interests and raises questions about the validity of the existing contract.

With the California State Athletic Commission potentially getting involved, the outcome remains uncertain. Valenzuela's bold move to challenge the status quo in boxing management sets the stage for a high-stakes legal battle that could reshape the landscape of fighter representation in the sport.

Get ready for a night of epic showdowns on Saturday, December 7th! The action kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time with the preliminaries, so make sure you're tuned in to ESPN, ESPN Deportes, or ESPN+ in the U.S., Sky Sports in the U.K., and Ireland.

The main event at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona features two thrilling title rematches. Emanuel Navarrete defends his WBO junior lightweight world title against Oscar Valdez in a highly anticipated sequel to their previous clash. Expect fireworks as these two warriors battle it out for supremacy in the ring.

Navarrete, with a record of 38-2-1 (31 KOs), aims to solidify his dominance in a weight class filled with uncertainty. On the other hand, Valdez seeks redemption and another shot at a world title. It's a high-stakes match that promises excitement and drama.

In the co-feature, Rafael Espinoza and Robeisy Ramirez meet again in a rematch that guarantees intense action. Espinoza aims to defend his WBO featherweight belt against Ramirez, who is looking to avenge his previous loss. The outcome of this fight could set the stage for future title opportunities in the featherweight division.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! The undercard is stacked with rising stars and prospects, including Lindolfo Delgado and Richard Torrez Jr. Keep an eye on these talented fighters as they showcase their skills and aim for glory in the ring.

And if you're hungry for more boxing action, mark your calendar for other thrilling matchups on the same night. From Liam Paro vs. Richardson Hitchins to Ryan Rozicki vs. Yamil Alberto Peralta II, the boxing world is buzzing with anticipation for these epic battles.

So grab your snacks, settle into your seat, and get ready for a night of heart-pounding action and unforgettable moments in the world of boxing. Don't miss out on the excitement as these fighters leave it all in the ring for glory and victory!

Teofimo Lopez Jr. may have had a quiet year defending his WBO junior welterweight crown, but he's gearing up for an explosive 2025. Known as "The Takeover," Lopez is eager to dive into big-time fights once again. Recently teaming up with Eddy Reynoso, the renowned coach behind Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, Lopez is ready to take his career to new heights.

In a recent training session in San Diego, Lopez didn't hold back on discussing potential matchups against boxing heavyweights like Devin Haney, Ryan Garcia, and Terence Crawford. Expressing his frustration with Team Haney's lack of response to an offer, Lopez made it clear that he's not one to waste time when it comes to negotiations.

Regarding a possible showdown with Ryan Garcia, Lopez mentioned, "Everything has to make sense. We have to give them something to be interested in. I try to play it fair as best as I can as the king of the division at 140 pounds."

To Terence Crawford, Lopez issued a bold challenge, saying, "Stop being a [expletive] and make the fight at 154 pounds. C'mon, take care of this young kid. Get me out of the ring. Get me out and put me in a stretcher. Everybody just be talking. And to everybody, stop ducking Teofimo."

Reflecting on his training with Reynoso, Lopez shared, "It's been great. Both of them have a good point of view of what they are seeing in me and what I can do. They have both been collaborating very well so far and I can't wait for what's in store."

With Lopez's determination and newfound partnership with Reynoso, the boxing world can expect to witness a whole new version of the champion. Get ready for Lopez's electrifying comeback in 2025!

The featherweight division is a fascinating realm in boxing, where size norms are defied, and fighters of varying statures showcase their skills in surprising ways. From the towering 6ft 1ins Rafael Espinoza to the compact 5ft 2ins Nick Ball, the division is a melting pot of talent that keeps even seasoned observers on their toes.

John Pullman, a seasoned boxing coach, finds the unpredictability of the division thrilling. He marvels at the potential matchup between Ball and Espinoza, emphasizing the diversity of sizes in the featherweight class. With no clear standout emerging, every fight becomes a toss-up, adding to the division's allure.

IBF titleholder Angelo Leo echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the colorful mix of fighters in the division. He emphasizes the need for top-notch preparation, recognizing the competitive landscape within the weight class.

The division's diversity is further highlighted by Hector Fernandez, manager of a former title contender. Fernandez points out the unique characteristics of fighters like Venado Lopez, emphasizing how styles make fights in boxing. With standouts like Nick Ball and Rey Vargas showcasing contrasting approaches, the featherweight division offers a rich tapestry of talent.

Tramaine Williams, a featherweight contender, sheds light on the weight dynamics in the division, where fighters often cut weight to gain a competitive edge. The evolution of weight classes and fighter sizes is noted by veteran cutman Mike Bazzel, underlining the changing landscape of boxing.

As the division gears up for Espinoza's title defense against Robeisy Ramirez, the contrasting styles of the fighters add to the division's intrigue. Coach Marvin Somodio emphasizes the unique mix of boxers and brawlers in the division, making it a compelling space for fight fans.

Malikai Johnson, a regional featherweight fighter, sees the division as a wide-open field, ripe with opportunities for emerging talent. With a history of nurturing stars, the featherweight division continues to draw attention for its willingness to make exciting matchups.

The featherweight division stands as a canvas of contrasting styles and body types, akin to a masterpiece waiting to unfold. The blend of skill, height, and toughness among the fighters adds layers of complexity to the division, making each bout a captivating spectacle.

As the division moves into the future, the unpredictability and excitement it offers remain its defining features. With the potential entry of Naoya Inoue, the division's landscape could see further evolution, promising more thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments for fans to savor.

Oscar Collazo's recent adventure to Saudi Arabia wasn't just a trip; it was a time machine that fast-forwarded his life by "at least three years," he jokes. The 20-hour flight from Puerto Rico to Riyadh was no walk in the park for Collazo. "Man, it hurt a lot," he recalls. But all the travel woes melted away when he returned home with not one but two minimumweight world title belts after defeating Knockout CP Freshmart.

The 27-year-old from Villalba delivered a career-best performance, handing Freshmart his first defeat and solidifying his record to 11-0 with eight knockouts. Despite the physical toll of the fight, Collazo made it look effortless. He dominated Freshmart throughout the match and secured victory with three knockdowns.

Guided by mentor and Hall of Famer Ivan Calderon, Collazo's strategic prowess shone through in the ring. Calderon's advice to always be intelligent and make wise decisions both inside and outside the ring has been invaluable to Collazo. With newfound fame and recognition in Puerto Rico, Collazo is humbled by the support and admiration of his fans.

Named after boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya, Collazo embraces his unique moniker with pride, thanks to his mother's admiration for the Golden Boy. Looking ahead, Collazo's hunger for success is insatiable. He aims to unify all belts in the 105-pound division by 2025 and then conquer the 108-pound weight class.

Collazo's ambition mirrors the legacy of Puerto Rican fighters who strive for greatness. Representing his island is a privilege that Collazo treasures deeply, recognizing the impact Puerto Rican fighters have on the sport's heritage. As he continues his journey to undisputed champion status, Collazo embodies the fighting spirit and determination that define Puerto Rican boxing.

Stepping into the ring with a shot at the IBF junior welterweight title against Liam Paro in Puerto Rico, Richardson Hitchins is living every boxer's dream. The upcoming fight promises to be a thrilling showdown that fans won't want to miss, airing on DAZN.

In his last bout against Gustavo Lemos, Hitchins faced a tough challenge, narrowly clinching a unanimous decision victory in a fight that had many questioning the outcome. Reflecting on his performance, Hitchins didn't shy away from criticizing himself, acknowledging the shortcomings in his approach to the fight.

Hitchins expressed his determination to make a mark in the division, aiming to challenge other champions like Teofimo Lopez Jnr, Jose Valenzuela, and Alberto Puello once he secures the title. With a strong belief in his abilities, he is focused on unifying the division and bringing glory back to New York City with a title defense.

Looking ahead, Hitchins is eager to prove himself against top-tier opponents and solidify his position as a world champion. His journey in boxing has been one of overcoming challenges and striving for greatness, a narrative that continues to unfold with each fight.

As Hitchins gears up for his title bout, the boxing world eagerly anticipates the outcome of this high-stakes showdown, where dreams will either be realized or shattered in the ring.

Get ready for an epic showdown as rising star Shakur Stevenson and challenger Floyd Schofield gear up to battle it out for Stevenson’s coveted WBC lightweight title.

Rumors had been swirling that these two fierce fighters could share the spotlight on the undercard of the anticipated Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 22. And, according to Schofield’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya, the young 22-year-old Schofield has officially accepted the terms of the bout.

De La Hoya, the mastermind behind Golden Boy Promotions, who recently orchestrated Gilberto Ramirez’s triumph over Chris Billam-Smith at the same venue, took to social media to announce the exciting news. He proclaimed, “Kid Austin is officially the most badass prospect fighter today. Kid officially accepts to fight Shakur Stevenson let’s go!”

Not to be outdone, Schofield, hailing from Austin, confidently declared, “We got the contract… done deal.”

Stevenson, 27, who was originally set to face off against William Zepeda (another Golden Boy fighter), expressed his enthusiasm to De La Hoya, saying, “Finally you talking some sense. Him first, then I knock Zepeda off next. Sorry in advance, my guy – you are a legend to me in the boxing ring!”

Excitement is building as the General Entertainment Authority promises to unveil more details about the upcoming promotion following Oleksandr Usyk-Tyson Fury II on December 21. While there were murmurs about a potential face-off between Vergil Ortiz Jnr and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, it seems that matchup will not be happening on this particular card. Stay tuned for more updates on this fast-paced and action-packed journey in the world of boxing!

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as the talented Adam Azim gears up to face off against Sergey Lipinets from Kazakhstan on February 1! Known for his impressive victory over Ohara Davies last October, the 22-year-old rising star is set to prove himself once again in the boxing ring. This upcoming match, expected to take place in London, will mark Azim's 13th fight and his biggest challenge yet.

Lipinets, a seasoned 35-year-old fighter, has faced tough opponents like Mikey Garcia, Jaron "Boots" Ennis, and Michel Rivera, showcasing his resilience in the ring. While Lipinets has a formidable record, Azim, the reigning European champion in the junior welterweight division, is determined to secure another victory.

The decision to pit Azim against Lipinets reflects a bold matchmaking strategy employed by his trainer Shane McGuigan and manager Barry McGuigan, who have guided the careers of renowned fighters like Carl Frampton and Josh Taylor.

In another exciting matchup, Viddal Riley is poised to take on Isaac Chamberlain if he emerges victorious against Steve Eloundou Ntere in Liverpool on December 14. McGuigan hinted at plans for early next year, emphasizing the importance of facing formidable opponents to elevate Riley's career.

McGuigan highlighted the significance of Riley's experiences in handling media scrutiny and external pressures, noting that these challenges are vital for growth in the competitive world of boxing. By seeking out tough and talkative opponents, McGuigan aims to prepare his fighters for high-stakes bouts where they must prove their mettle.

Get ready for a clash of titans as Azim and Lipinets prepare to battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling match-up of skill, determination, and heart!

After clinching a hard-earned victory over Regis Prograis in a challenging bout, Jack Catterall is gearing up for an eventful 2025. Despite battling through damaged ribs and a nasty cold during his preparation, Catterall managed to showcase his resilience in the ring.

Reflecting on his recent victory, Catterall acknowledged the tough nature of the fight, admitting, "I don't think it was my greatest performance, but I got the victory." The 31-year-old boxer emphasized his confidence in his skills and strategy to overcome the former world champion, Prograis.

The fight against Prograis marked a significant milestone as the first boxing event at the new Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester, England. With notable wins against Jorge Linares and Josh Taylor, Catterall has solidified his position as one of Britain's top boxing attractions.

While seeking recognition for his hard work and dedication to the sport, Catterall remains focused on his ultimate goal of securing a world title belt. As he looks ahead to his next bout in February, which may potentially involve a showdown with Arnold Barboza, Catterall is cautious in his approach, weighing his options before committing to a path.

With the possibility of a world title shot on the horizon, Catterall is determined to pursue his dream while navigating the unpredictable landscape of boxing. As he awaits the unfolding of future opportunities, Catterall remains steadfast in his pursuit of boxing glory.

Rick Mirigian, the manager of Vergil Ortiz Jnr, finds himself in a reflective mood as he comes to terms with the disappointment of the scrapped fight against Jaron "Boots" Ennis. The much-anticipated showdown, initially set for the February 22 Riyadh Season event, is now off the table, eliciting a mix of frustration and criticism from Mirigian.

The unraveling of the fight commenced following Ennis' recent victory over Karen Chukhadzhian, where Ennis hinted at a potential move up to junior middleweight. Mirigian, disheartened by these developments, emphasized the significance of Ennis' and his team's prior statements regarding the weight class. Mirigian expressed his disappointment, stating, "Of course, the weight was not an issue... Just go back and listen to them all!"

Mirigian believed the fight with Ennis was a real possibility, considering Ennis as a unique talent in the sport. However, the turn of events left him feeling let down as he reflected on the missed opportunity. "The worst part of this all is that a fighter, his trainer, and his promoter publicly called out Vergil multiple times... and claimed to have made us an offer – which was a lie."

The fallout from the failed negotiations left Mirigian lamenting the lost potential of what could have been a historic fight. He emphasized that Ortiz had shown willingness to make the fight happen, contrasting Ennis' apparent reluctance. The confusion surrounding the situation centered on the weight class dilemma, with Ennis holding the IBF welterweight title and Ortiz unable to compete in that weight division.

Ennis, addressing the situation on social media, distanced himself from alleged negotiations and hinted at a decision regarding his weight class in the future. This public back-and-forth and private misunderstandings between the two camps soured any chances of a future matchup, at least for the foreseeable future.

Mirigian concluded by asserting that Vergil would not engage in such negotiations again, implying that Ennis may have missed his shot at facing Ortiz. The fallout from this episode may have lasting implications on how Ennis is perceived by the public in the boxing world.

In the final analysis, the saga of the Ortiz-Ennis bout serves as a cautionary tale in the world of boxing negotiations, where miscommunication and differing priorities can lead to missed opportunities and damaged reputations.

Get ready for an epic showdown in Saudi Arabia on February 22 as heavyweight warriors Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel gear up for a colossal 12-round battle with the prestigious WBC interim strap on the line.

While some may question the need for an interim champion with Oleksandr Usyk holding the heavyweight crown and set to face Tyson Fury in a blockbuster rematch, Mauricio Sulaiman, the head of the WBC, is adamant that this clash will ensure the division stays active and delivers top-tier fights.

Sulaiman expressed, "We have worked tirelessly to bring the best matchups to every weight class, especially in the heavyweight division. We are committed to crowning the ultimate undisputed champion by allowing the best fighters to face off. The Usyk-Fury fight is a testament to that, and by sanctioning the Zhang-Kabayel bout for the interim title, we are setting the stage for more thrilling fights in the future."

Agit Kabayel, a rising star at 32 years old with an impressive 25-0 record and 17 knockouts, has made waves with notable wins over Arslanbek Makhmudov and Frank Sanchez. Meanwhile, the seasoned 41-year-old Zhilei Zhang made a triumphant comeback in June by knocking out Deontay Wilder, following a tough loss to Joseph Parker. Excitement is brewing as these heavyweight giants prepare to clash in a high-stakes battle that promises fireworks in the ring.

Exciting news for fans of former WBO junior middleweight champion Liam Smith! After a remarkable victory over Chris Eubank Jnr in January 2023, Smith is gearing up for his much-anticipated return to the ring. Despite a lackluster performance in his last fight, the 33-4-1 (20 KOs) fighter is eager to showcase his skills once again.

Recently, there have been talks between Smith and Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn about his comeback. While a matchup with Austin "Ammo" Williams fell through, negotiations are still in progress for a potential fight on January 17 in Liverpool. Smith, who was ringside to support his brother Callum's triumphant return, shared an update on his own boxing journey.

Looking ahead, Smith expressed his optimism for a February fight, stating, "Eddie's offered me a date on January 17th, but unfortunately, it doesn't quite fit my schedule. I'm hoping for a February bout, so fingers crossed for that."

Stay tuned for more updates on Liam Smith's comeback journey as he aims to make a strong statement in the ring once again!

Lamont Roach Sr. is bursting with excitement, not just because his son Lamont Roach Jr. is getting a shot at Gervonta Davis, but also because the fight is happening closer to their home turf.

The father and trainer of junior lightweight champ Lamont Roach Jr. couldn't contain his enthusiasm about the upcoming showdown against lightweight titleholder Davis at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Roach Jr., 29, clinched his WBA title by defeating Hector Luis Garcia in November 2023. He followed up with an impressive victory over Feargal McCrory in June. Roach, with a record of 25-1-1 (10 KOs), is all set to face off against Davis, 30, who boasts an undefeated record of 30-0 (28 KOs) and hails from Baltimore, just an hour away from Roach's hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

"Excited for the new date and location. It's only fitting for the fight to happen on our side of town. New York, here we come," Roach Sr. shared with BoxingScene.

Davis, on a knockout streak since his fight with Isaac Cruz in December 2021, promises a thrilling matchup. Both fighters coming from the same regional boxing scene adds an extra layer of anticipation to the bout.

"The Barclays Center will be on fire that night. Two top young champs with a shared history putting it all on the line in their prime," Roach Sr. added.

Initially scheduled for December in Houston, the fight's rescheduling makes it one of Premier Boxing Champions' key events in 2025 and their second pay-per-view following a recent card in February.

Roach Sr. expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the fight happen, confident that Lamont Jr. will be more than prepared for this incredible moment. And with hopeful anticipation, he closed with the words he dreams of hearing that night: "And the new..."

Lucas Ketelle, a respected member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and author of "Inside The Ropes of Boxing," is an authority in the field.

Ben Shalom, the dynamic force behind Boxxer promotions, is shaking up the boxing world with his innovative approach. Instead of chasing established fighters, he's nurturing raw talent to create future stars. Shalom, the exclusive promoter for Sky Sports, has a keen eye for spotting potential, evident in his signings of Olympians like Lauren Price, Frazer Clarke, and Ben Whittaker.

Excitement brews as Shalom unveils his latest gem, Scottish middleweight prospect Sam Hickey. "We're all about starting from the ground up, handpicking fighters with the right mindset, fanbase, and hunger for success," Shalom explains. This strategy has yielded success stories like Adam Azim, Callum Simpson, and Caroline Dubois, cementing Boxxer's reputation for cultivating champions.

Upcoming events promise a thrilling lineup, with Natasha Jonas headlining in Liverpool and Callum Simpson taking center stage in Sheffield. Fans can also anticipate the return of junior welterweight contender Adam Azim in London. Amidst the buzz, all eyes are on Paris Olympic super heavyweight Delicious Orie, a standout figure considering a leap into the professional realm.

Orie, having navigated the post-Olympic limelight, is weighing his options, including a potential venture into the WWE. Shalom, recognizing Orie's charisma and talent, remains open to the prospect of welcoming him into the Boxxer family. "He's a heavyweight with charisma, exploring all avenues for his future. Let's see where destiny leads him in the coming weeks," Shalom muses, hinting at a possible collaboration with the promising Orie.