Step right up, boxing fans! The heavyweight division, often the shining star in the boxing universe, has seen the likes of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and more, delivering thrilling battles fit for the gladiatorial arena. These fighters don't just step into the ring; they put on a show that leaves us all asking, "Are you not entertained?"

But rewind to a time before the heavyweight renaissance, and you'll find a forgotten era in boxing history known as the Lost Generation. Picture this: skilled boxers passing title belts like hot potatoes, with Don King orchestrating the chaos. As one writer put it, "King's control of boxing's premier division is staggering."

In the midst of this turmoil, Larry Holmes stood tall as a beacon of excellence, overshadowed by his predecessor but a true champion in his own right. The title scene was a mess, with multiple claimants and fractured loyalties, setting the stage for bizarre matchups like Page vs. Coetzee for the heavyweight crown.

The backdrop to this drama was apartheid-era South Africa, a nation divided by race and rife with controversy. While many sports shunned the regime, boxing found itself entangled in the political and ethical quagmire. Promoters like King faced backlash for their dealings in South Africa, sparking outrage and protests.

Fast forward to the fight night between Page and Coetzee, a clash that transcended sport and politics. The bout unfolded in dramatic fashion, with Page delivering a knockout blow that sent shockwaves through the divided society. Celebrations erupted, tinged with irony as Page's victory was hailed in a racially charged environment.

As the dust settled, the Lost Generation faded into obscurity, with its members facing personal struggles and tragic ends. Holmes continued his reign, Bey's dreams crumbled, and Coetzee found redemption beyond the ring. Mandela's South Africa emerged from the shadows of apartheid, rewriting its history and honoring those who defied the odds.

In the end, boxing's tumultuous journey mirrored the broader societal shifts, from division to unity, from turmoil to triumph. And in the ring, where warriors clashed and champions rose and fell, the echoes of the past remind us that in the fight for glory, the true champions are those who stand for more than victory.

Matchroom Boxing is revving up for an action-packed start to 2025 with plans for five thrilling shows set to light up the UK in the first quarter of the year. Among the headliners is the former world champion Josh Taylor, poised to make a splash once again in the ring.

Despite recent setbacks, including a controversial win over Jack Catterall and a tough defeat against Teofimo Lopez, Taylor remains a force to be reckoned with. His last shining moment dates back to his victory over Jose Ramirez in May 2021, showcasing his undeniable talent as a skilled southpaw.

Looking ahead, promoter Eddie Hearn is exploring exciting matchups for Taylor, with names like Montana Love, Sergey Lipinets, and Robbie Davies Jnr swirling in the mix. Hearn is mindful of Taylor's pivotal career juncture and aims to guide him strategically back to the top.

Reflecting on Taylor's recent challenges, Hearn acknowledges the importance of finding the right balance between thrilling fights for the fans and strategic career moves for the fighter. "You can't just sling him in," Hearn notes, emphasizing the need to nurture Taylor's talent and progression at a pace that suits his journey to reclaiming glory in the ring.

One minute they were gearing up for the fight of the year, and the next, it all hit a snag. Recently, there was buzz that Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron Ennis had agreed to face off in Saudi Arabia on February 22. The anticipation was high for this showdown between the super welterweight knockout artist and the IBF welterweight titleholder. However, things took a surprising turn when Ennis decided to change the weight class from 154 pounds to 147 pounds, throwing a wrench into the plans.

Ortiz didn't hold back his disappointment, taking to social media to clear the air. He emphasized his willingness to fight anyone and expressed his frustration at the fight falling through despite his eagerness to step into the ring. The boxing community was abuzz with speculation about who would step in to face Ortiz, with Xander Zayas throwing his hat into the ring.

Meanwhile, Ennis addressed the situation, making it clear that he was not aware of any negotiations on his behalf and urged fans to only believe information that comes directly from him. With Ennis seemingly out of the picture, the spotlight shifted to the possibility of Sebastian Fundora or Xander Zayas stepping up to take on Ortiz.

The fight was set to be part of a stacked card headlined by the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. As the drama unfolded, fans eagerly awaited news on who would ultimately share the ring with Ortiz. The boxing world was abuzz with excitement and uncertainty as the saga continued to unfold.

In the fast-paced world of boxing, anything can happen, and this unexpected twist only adds to the intrigue of the sport. Fans will have to stay tuned to see how this saga unfolds and who will ultimately step up to face Vergil Ortiz Jr. in what promises to be an electrifying showdown.

Get ready for a heavyweight showdown like no other when Mahmoud Charr and Kubrat Pulev step into the ring in Sofia, Bulgaria this Saturday. These two seasoned fighters bring a wealth of experience, frustration, and a touch of chaos to the table.

The coveted WBA "regular" heavyweight belt is up for grabs, adding an extra layer of intensity to this fight. Both Charr and Pulev, along with Fres Oquendo, have been in a bizarre dance with this title, passing it back and forth like a hot potato. Surprisingly, only Charr has held the belt, maintaining an undefeated record since claiming it in 2017, despite his scarce appearances in the ring.

Pulev, on the other hand, at 43, has faced challenges but hasn't been as active lately. Nevertheless, he has faced top-tier opponents like Derek Chisora and Anthony Joshua, showcasing his skills in the ring.

Charr is determined to outshine Pulev, stating, "My plan is to make him quit in the fight. I will stop his career." Confident in his abilities, Charr sees this fight as a chance to solidify his reign and etch his name in boxing history.

Embracing his diverse background, Charr asserts, "My friend, I am cosmopolitan. I am a world fighter." His international flair sets the stage for a thrilling battle where he aims to prove his worth and reclaim the spotlight.

As the clock ticks, Charr understands the importance of seizing the moment. With a win in Bulgaria, he can revitalize his career and reassert his dominance in the ring. Ready to shine bright like a diamond, Charr is determined to make a lasting impact and secure his rightful place as a champion.

Whether he goes by Diamond Boy, Arab German King, or simply Mahmoud, Charr's ultimate goal is clear - to reign victorious and reclaim his status as a champion. This fight isn't just about the belt; it's about cementing his legacy and showing the world what he's truly made of.

Manny Pacquiao's boxing journey seems to be reaching a pivotal moment as he approaches his 46th birthday. The Filipino legend, known for his eight-division champion status, has been out of the ring since 2021 and recently showcased a lackluster performance in a July exhibition match. Despite hints of retirement and a shift towards a political career in the Philippines, Pacquiao still believes there's gas left in the tank for one more epic comeback.

His promoter, Sean Gibbons, hinted at the possibility of Pacquiao lacing up the gloves again, stating, "If he gets something by January 31, 2025, he's ready to rumble." The boxing world awaits to see if Pacquiao will embark on another boxing chapter, with Gibbons adding, "With Manny, he could be fighting until he's 50."

While a potential showdown with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios seemed promising, Pacquiao's lackluster exhibition bout against Rukiya Anpo threw a wrench into those plans. Despite setbacks, Gibbons remains optimistic about the Barrios fight, suggesting it could still happen in the near future.

However, time is ticking for Pacquiao, especially with Matchroom Boxing's Eddie Hearn throwing Conor Benn into the mix as a potential opponent for Barrios. The boxing world eagerly anticipates Pacquiao's next move as he contemplates one final shot at reclaiming championship glory.

Manouk Akopyan, a respected sports journalist, has been following Pacquiao's journey closely. His insightful analysis and coverage can be found in various reputable publications. Connect with him to stay updated on the latest in the boxing world.

In the world of boxing, Mickey Bey is a fighter who embodies resilience and adaptability. Despite facing challenges throughout his career, the former IBF lightweight champion has always found ways to come out on top, even when the odds were stacked against him. At 41, Mickey, a native of Cleveland, is now at a crossroads in his career, mentoring a select group of fighters while keeping the door open for a potential return to the ring.

Reflecting on his recent win in Mexico, Mickey remains listed as an active fighter with a record of 25-3-1 and is currently on a two-fight winning streak. Although his last notable bout was a tough split-decision loss in 2019, setting the stage for George Kambosos Jr.'s subsequent upset victory over Teofimo Lopez in 2021, Mickey remains undeterred and focused on his journey.

Recalling his toughest fights, Mickey humbly acknowledges the early challenges he faced when taking on opponents on short notice, highlighting the unpredictability and danger of facing lesser-known fighters with knockout power. He attributes his ability to navigate such situations to the guidance of his longtime trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr., who instilled in him the importance of adaptability and preparation for any scenario.

When asked about the most talented fighter he's encountered, Mickey singles out Miguel Vazquez, citing his impressive track record and the strategic approach he had to employ in their title bout, despite fighting with an injured hand. Mickey credits his victory to his ability to adjust his tactics, showcasing mental fortitude and strategic prowess in the ring.

For Mickey, boxing goes beyond physical skill; it's about mental toughness and the ability to persevere in the face of adversity. Drawing from his own experiences, he emphasizes the importance of staying calm, focused, and adaptable throughout a fight, regardless of the challenges that may arise.

As Mickey continues to mentor aspiring fighters and contemplates his own future in the sport, he remains grateful for the lessons he learned from Floyd Mayweather Sr. about overcoming obstacles and finding ways to succeed in the ring. Mickey's dedication to passing on these invaluable teachings to the next generation exemplifies his enduring passion for the sport and the unwavering spirit that has defined his career.

Matchroom Boxing chairman Eddie Hearn is keeping fans on the edge of their seats with the possibility of Floyd Schofield stepping into the ring against Shakur Stevenson. Despite the uncertainty, Hearn isn't ruling out the matchup just yet.

Schofield, the 22-year-old fighter hailing from Jersey City, New Jersey, has been relentless in his pursuit of a showdown with Stevenson, the 27-year-old lightweight titleholder from Newark, New Jersey. After Stevenson's original opponent, William Zepeda, had to withdraw due to injury, Schofield seized the opportunity to challenge the boxing sensation.

Hearn, Stevenson's promoter, acknowledges the buzz surrounding a potential face-off between the two fighters. He mentions, "For me, Schofield has been calling out for a while now. He's a very talented young fighter. [Stevenson] is a big step up. But at some point, you take a big step up, especially if there's a financial reward."

Stevenson, boasting an impressive record of 22-0 with 10 knockouts, has been on the lookout for a new opponent following the series of setbacks in scheduling fights. With Schofield, undefeated in 18 fights with 12 knockouts, eager to make a name for himself in the boxing world, the potential bout promises to be a thrilling encounter for both fighters.

Hearn remains cautiously optimistic about the match materializing, stating, "So, I don't know if that fight will get made, but we have been talking to Golden Boy about numbers around that fight - and there is a chance. But we won't know for the next probably 24, 48 hours."

The anticipation for this clash of talents is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting confirmation of whether Schofield will be the one to test Stevenson in the ring. Stay tuned as the boxing world holds its breath for the final decision on this exciting matchup.

Terence Crawford is eyeing a big super-middleweight fight, but the spotlight is on his fellow Omaha, Nebraska fighter Steven Nelson, who is gearing up for an exciting battle in 2025. According to an insider, Nelson is set to face off against the top-ranked WBO contender Diego Pacheco in Las Vegas on January 25, in what promises to be a thrilling DAZN-streamed showdown.

Trained by Brian “BoMac” McIntyre, Nelson is described as "strong, short, and stocky," while Pacheco is known for his skill in maintaining distance. A source from Pacheco's camp hinted at their strategy, saying, "[Nelson] is a good test, the plan is to get him hurt and finish him."

The matchup with Nelson comes after Pacheco's negotiations with other contenders fell through. The super-middleweight division is buzzing with activity, with various fighters vying for their shot at the top. Amidst the chaos, it's uncertain how things will unfold, especially with the anticipation of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez needing an opponent for his upcoming Cinco de Mayo bout.

As the boxing world eagerly awaits these matchups, fighters like Nelson and Pacheco are looking to make a name for themselves and elevate their brand. With each bout, they inch closer to potential title shots and recognition in the competitive world of professional boxing.

Behind the scenes, trainers like Jose Benavidez Snr are working tirelessly to prepare their fighters for these high-stakes matches. The boxing community is abuzz with anticipation as fighters gear up for what promises to be an action-packed and memorable night in Las Vegas.

In the sun-soaked town of Bakersfield, California, time seems to slow down, allowing the legacy of Mike Dallas Snr to resonate through the Bakersfield Police Activities League (PAL) gym. Here, Dallas Snr, not just a coach but a builder and father figure, impacted generations of fighters, leaving an indelible mark on those who crossed his path.

His son, professional boxer Mike Dallas Jnr, reminisces about his father's influence with a mix of pride and nostalgia. "My dad started boxing because his father was a fighter," Dallas Jnr shared. "I came up the same way, watching my dad train and learning from him. The PAL program hasn’t been the same since he passed."

Dallas Snr, a former professional fighter turned coach, transformed the PAL gym into a powerhouse that clinched national tournaments. Despite his success, tragedy struck swiftly when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Even in the face of illness, Dallas Snr remained a steadfast presence in his son's corner, offering guidance and support.

Following his father's passing, Dallas Jnr navigated a tumultuous professional boxing career, grappling with personal loss and emotional turmoil. Despite setbacks, the enduring legacy of his father lives on, particularly through aspiring talent like Joel Iriarte, a promising junior lightweight with Golden Boy Promotions.

Iriarte, who trained at the same gym under Dallas Snr's guidance, embodies the essence of Bakersfield boxing tradition. "Joel is talented—really talented," Dallas Jnr praised. "It’s like my dad’s legacy lives on through him."

As Dallas Jnr imparts his father's teachings to the next generation, the impact of Mike Dallas Snr transcends mere victories, resonating in the lives he touched and the values he instilled. Through fighters like Iriarte, the torch of the Dallas family's boxing heritage burns bright, ensuring that the story of Mike Dallas Snr endures as a beacon of inspiration and mentorship in the Bakersfield community.

"He wasn’t just a trainer," Iriarte reflected. "He was a mentor, a pillar of the community. His legacy is still shaping fighters today."

In a thrilling matchup at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, Cameron Vuong emerged victorious in a contentious decision against Gavin Gwynne, marking a pivotal moment in his young career.

Despite Gwynne's relentless aggression and consistent punches, Vuong showcased his resilience and superior punch selection in the final rounds to secure the win. The judges' decision, though met with some skepticism and boos from the crowd, highlighted Vuong's potential in the boxing world.

Vuong's decision to face the more experienced Gwynne proved to be a risky but rewarding move, setting the stage for his future growth in the sport. The intense bout between the two fighters left a lasting impression on the audience, emphasizing the importance of such challenging matchups in Vuong's journey to success.

In other notable fights of the night, Troy Jones defended his English light-heavyweight title with an impressive victory over Michael Stephenson, despite a point deduction for a shoulder infraction. Flyweight Hamza Uddin continued his winning streak with a solid performance against Benn Norman, while Aaron Bowen's incredible recovery from a knockdown led to a spectacular fifth-round knockout against James Todd.

Ibraheem Sulaimaan also left his mark with a stunning knockout victory over Marvin Solano, showcasing the electrifying energy and talent on display throughout the evening. The event was a true testament to the grit, determination, and skill of these rising boxing stars.

Exciting news in the boxing world as promoter Ben Shalom drops hints about a potential showdown between Chris Eubank Jnr and WBA middleweight champ Erislandy Lara! The much-anticipated Eubank-Benn clash was derailed by unexpected PED test results, leaving fans disappointed. But fear not, as Conor Benn gears up for a comeback in 2025, paving the way for a potentially epic matchup with Eubank.

Shalom spilled the beans, saying, "That’s the fight that’s going to be made if Benn doesn’t get done. That’s the fight we’re looking at." With talks swirling around the Benn fight, Shalom hints at the tantalizing prospect of Eubank taking on Lara for a shot at the world title. Lara, a formidable opponent with an impressive record, poses a significant challenge and opportunity for Eubank.

"We’ve had preliminary talks for Lara, who is with PBC. It’s a fight I believe both of them want, and I believe it presents a massive opportunity," Shalom shared. Eubank's eagerness to step back in the ring could see this potential clash happening soon, possibly in London as early as March. The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation as we await confirmation on which direction this exciting matchup will take.

Lara, boasting a remarkable boxing record, last showcased his skills by stopping Danny Garcia in round nine back in September. As the plot thickens and negotiations continue, fans can only speculate on the fireworks that a Lara-Eubank showdown would bring to the ring. Stay tuned for more updates on this high-stakes sporting spectacle!

Galal Yafai dominated the ring against Sunny Edwards, showcasing an impressive performance that left the audience in awe at Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England. In a surprising turn of events, Yafai established himself not only as Britain's top flyweight but also as a potential contender on the world stage.

From the first bell, it was evident that Edwards was struggling to keep up with Yafai's relentless attacks. The referee had to step in during the sixth round after Edwards found himself unable to defend against Yafai's onslaught, marking a decisive victory for Yafai.

Yafai's strategic approach to closing down the ring and landing powerful punches showcased his Olympic gold medalist background. Edwards, who had previously criticized Yafai, found himself overwhelmed by Yafai's determination to make a statement in the ring.

Throughout the match, Edwards seemed to struggle with mobility and footwork, a stark contrast to his past performances. Yafai capitalized on his size advantage, delivering impactful blows to both the head and body of Edwards.

The fight culminated in a sixth-round stoppage, with the referee intervening to potentially save Edwards' career. The night also saw other remarkable victories, including Conah Walker's triumph over Lewis Ritson and Kieron Conway's Commonwealth middleweight title win against Ryan Kelly.

The thrilling matches at Resorts World Arena left fans on the edge of their seats, witnessing the sheer determination and skill of these talented boxers.

In a dramatic showdown at Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England, Sunny Edwards bid adieu to his boxing career following a tough defeat by Galal Yafai. The referee, Lee Every, stepped in to stop the fight just 70 seconds into the sixth round, putting an end to Edwards' relentless battle.

This unexpected defeat marked a significant turn for Edwards, who faced his first loss back in December 2023 in a unification match against Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez. Yafai's dominance in the ring not only secured his position as Britain's top flyweight but also positioned him as a formidable force on the world stage.

At 28 years old, Edwards, under new trainer Chris Williams, struggled to showcase the agility and finesse that once made him the IBF champion. Expressing his inner turmoil during the fight, Edwards confessed to Williams, "Can I be real with you? I don't want to be in here." This sentiment, coupled with his subdued reaction to the referee's intervention, hinted at a deeper contemplation of retirement.

Reflecting on his decision to retire, Edwards shared, "I don't have the same energy that I had for the sport; for the process." Despite the challenging circumstances leading up to the fight, Edwards emphasized his desire to compete at the highest level. He acknowledged Yafai's superior performance, conceding that the outcome was a testament to his rival's skill and determination.

Looking ahead, Yafai's victory sets the stage for a potential showdown with WBC champion Kenshiro Teraji in 2025. Edwards, on the other hand, remains resolute in his retirement plans, prioritizing his personal life and future endeavors beyond the boxing ring.

As Edwards bids farewell to a chapter in his boxing career, he leaves behind a legacy of passion and determination. While the defeat may mark the end of his time in the ring, his contributions to the sport and his unwavering spirit will always be remembered.

Emanuel Navarrete may have fallen short in his quest for a world title in a fourth weight class, but that doesn't deter him from being open to another shot at it. The 29-year-old fighter from Mexico recently lost a split decision to Denys Berinchyk in a bout for the WBO lightweight belt. However, Navarrete has swiftly bounced back by returning to the junior lightweight division to defend his WBO title against Oscar Valdez in a highly anticipated rematch on December 7.

Navarrete, who appeared a bit out of shape in his previous fight, had no trouble shedding five pounds to prepare for his upcoming battle against Valdez. In a recent interview, Navarrete expressed his eagerness for the rematch, stating, "I think because of that initial fight with Valdez, and the attraction it has, it makes it more feasible. So it helped make that decision for me."

The upcoming Navarrete-Valdez II showdown promises to be a thrilling event, with their first encounter back in August 2023 ending in Navarrete's favor via a unanimous decision. Despite recent challenges, including a draw with Robson Conceicao and the loss to Berinchyk, Navarrete remains a formidable force in the ring with a record of 38-2-1 (31 KOs).

Looking to the future, Navarrete hinted at the possibility of moving up to the lightweight division again, stating, "We can do something at 135 in the future. But I have to take my time... when that opportunity comes, we're going to come with everything for that title in the fourth weight class."

The highly anticipated Navarrete-Valdez II fight is scheduled to take place at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and will be broadcast on various platforms, including ESPN and Sky Sports. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying rematch between these two talented fighters.

Step into the ring with 34-year-old junior welterweight Amelia Moore, and you'll quickly realize that her fighting spirit extends far beyond the boxing arena. Hailing from a farm in Norway, Maine, and now calling Colorado Springs home, Moore's journey to the professional boxing world is a tale of resilience and determination.

Her recent debut victory against Michaele Nogue was just a glimpse into the extraordinary story that led her to CES Boxing. But Moore's path wasn't paved with gold; it was etched with hardships and challenges that she faced head-on from a young age. Emancipated at just 15, she juggled multiple jobs while striving to create a better future for herself.

Reflecting on her tough upbringing, Moore shared, "It was all about survival. I was driving a truck to feed the animals at 11, no matter the weather. Responsibility was ingrained in me, shaping my resilience and work ethic."

From those early struggles emerged a fighter with a thirst for knowledge and growth. Despite financial obstacles, Moore seized opportunities like applying to the U.S. Naval Academy, showcasing her unwavering determination to succeed against all odds.

Transitioning from the Navy to boxing, Moore found solace and purpose in the sport. "Boxing taught me to let go of my past and truly live," she revealed. Her journey from a free martial arts program to dominating amateur competitions with Team USA speaks volumes about her dedication and passion for combat sports.

Moore's professional boxing career isn't just about winning matches; it's a platform to inspire others to script their narratives of triumph. As she embarks on this new chapter, she advocates for progress in women's boxing, pushing for parity with men's fights and longer rounds to showcase the talent and skill of female athletes.

Looking ahead, Moore envisions a future filled with explosive fights and groundbreaking achievements, inspired by trailblazers like Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, growth, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.

For Amelia Moore, boxing isn't just a sport; it's a journey of empowerment and impact, resonating far beyond the ring.

Get ready for an epic showdown as junior welterweight champ Liam Paro and top IBF contender Richardson Hitchins gear up to settle the score in a thrilling match set for December 7 at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

In a fiery face-off segment titled "Liam Paro vs. Richardson Hitchins: Face Off," streamed on Matchroom Boxing's YouTube channel, these two fighters went head-to-head, building anticipation for their upcoming battle on DAZN. This fight marks Paro's final bout of the year, adding to the excitement for fans.

For Paro, the fight holds sentimental value as it brings him back to Puerto Rico, where he clinched his title in a previous victory against Subriel Matias. On the other side, Hitchins, fresh off a win over Gustavo Lemos, is determined to showcase his true potential after struggling with weight issues in his last fight.

With both fighters boasting undefeated records, the tension is palpable as Hitchins ramps up the mind games. "I wanted to fight you as soon as I signed with Matchroom," Hitchins declared boldly, calling out Paro and another boxer. Unfazed, Paro responded with a mix of confidence and wit, setting the stage for a battle of words and skills.

The banter continued as Hitchins highlighted their contrasting performances against a mutual opponent, Yomar Alamo. As Hitchins emphasized his resilience and power, questioning Paro's ability to withstand a hit, the anticipation for their clash reaches a fever pitch.

With Hitchins' determination to dethrone the champion and Paro's unwavering confidence in his abilities, this upcoming fight promises to be a thrilling spectacle of skill, strategy, and grit. Get ready to witness a showdown that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final bell rings.

Eddie Hearn is revving up the excitement for a potential clash between Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr, but there's a twist! The only snag in this epic showdown is deciding on the perfect weight class. Will it be welterweight or junior middleweight for this highly-anticipated battle set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 22?

Hearn, the mastermind behind Ennis and head honcho at Matchroom Boxing, spilled the beans to Fight Hub TV, saying, “I mean the only reason when we initially talked about the Ortiz fight, we were told that it could be at 147.” Ennis, with an impressive record of 33-0 (29 KOs), reigns as the IBF welterweight champ, while Ortiz, boasting 22-0 (21 KOs), holds the WBC interim 154-pound title.

The plot thickens as Hearn hints at Ennis possibly moving up to the 154-pound division, risking his welterweight title in pursuit of an even more thrilling challenge. “We don't have a problem moving to 154, but when we do it, we'll probably lose our championship,” Hearn disclosed.

However, all is not lost if the Ennis-Ortiz showdown doesn’t materialize. Hearn teased at the idea of a 147-pound unification bout if the stars don’t align for the much-anticipated clash. “So, at the same time, if it's not Ortiz, it has to be unification, but Jaron wants to be in big fights and the Ortiz fight is a big fight in Saudi and we'll see again,” he revealed.

The stage is set for a seismic battle, and the boxing world is buzzing with anticipation. Stay tuned as the fighters weigh their options and the countdown to this epic showdown begins!

Three retired world champions have some advice for David Benavidez as he contemplates a move up to cruiserweight. Benavidez, set to face David Morrell at light heavyweight in Las Vegas, could potentially target a fight with cruiserweight champion Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez.

The trio of Paulie Malignaggi, Timothy Bradley, and Chris Algieri, renowned experts in the boxing world, caution Benavidez against rushing into another weight class shift. Malignaggi points out Benavidez's size advantage, stating, "Benavidez is a very big super middleweight." He acknowledges the allure of cruiserweight but highlights the division's current competitiveness.

Bradley commends Benavidez's willingness to challenge himself but raises concerns about his performance at 175lbs, hinting at potential issues at cruiserweight. Algieri draws parallels to Roy Jones Jr.'s struggles post-weight class change, emphasizing the challenges of adjusting muscle mass.

The consensus among the champions is that while Benavidez's ambition is commendable, a move to cruiserweight could pose significant risks to his career. It's vital for him to focus on the task at hand and not overlook the formidable opponent in Morrell. As Malignaggi wisely puts it, "Now is just the time to think of David Morrell. David Morrell is no gimme."

In an electrifying showdown in Bolton, Reece MacMillan clinched the Central Area junior welterweight title, shattering Kane Gardner's dreams of the British title. The ten-round battle was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, with MacMillan ultimately seizing a momentous victory over Gardner.

Despite Gardner's plans to face British and Commonwealth champion Jack Rafferty, MacMillan's standout performance might just catapult him into the spotlight for a shot at the British title. The fight with Rafferty was in the works, but MacMillan came in swinging, setting the pace from the get-go with relentless pressure and slick head movement.

As the fight progressed, the intensity escalated, culminating in a nail-biting decision in favor of MacMillan with a razor-thin margin. The clash between James Moorcroft and Dom Hunt also ended in a draw, setting the stage for a potential rematch as both fighters eye the Commonwealth junior middleweight title.

Meanwhile, in a thrilling showdown in Oldham, Joe Howarth secured the Central Area lightweight title after a fierce battle with Adam Sircar. Howarth, who had a rocky journey after a setback last March, showcased his resilience and skill, solidifying his victory with a dominant performance.

On the undercard, Zak Miller, the English featherweight champion, displayed his prowess by outpointing Brayan Mairena, setting the stage for a showdown with Commonwealth champion Masoud Abdullah. Despite facing challenges, Miller's determination shines through as he gears up for a high-stakes bout on the Chisora-Wallin undercard.

With a fresh wave of victories and potential rematches on the horizon, the boxing scene is buzzing with anticipation, setting the stage for an action-packed journey ahead.

In a surprising turn of events, the much-anticipated showdown between Vergil Ortiz and Jaron Ennis has been called off for February 22. However, rising Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas has thrown his hat in the ring and announced on social media that he's ready to step up and face Ortiz in Saudi Arabia.

With Ennis hesitant to move up to the 154-pound division and put his IBF welterweight title on the line, the undefeated Zayas, sporting a record of 20-0 with 12 knockouts, has eagerly accepted the challenge.

"I didn't need more than a minute to say yes when they offered me the fight," Zayas shared on social media, showing his eagerness to seize this opportunity. He wasted no time in accepting Ortiz's call to face anyone, showcasing his readiness for this high-stakes bout.

Based in Florida, the 22-year-old Zayas is gaining recognition for his impressive performances, despite not having stepped up to the 12-round level yet. With notable victories over tough opponents like Roberto Valenzuela Jnr and Jorge Fortea in his first 10-round fights, Zayas has proven his mettle in the ring. This year alone, he secured two 10-round decision wins, defeating Patrick Teixeira and Damian Sosa in convincing fashion.

The boxing world eagerly anticipates this upcoming clash between Ortiz and the rising star Zayas, set to take place in Saudi Arabia, promising an electrifying showdown for fans worldwide.