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.

Exciting News from Promoter Ben Shalom! He's gearing up to showcase two of his talented Olympians on a thrilling boxing bill this spring.

In a recent event, Frazer Clarke faced a tough knockout from Fabio Wardley, while Ben Whittaker's match against Liam Cameron ended in a tumble over the ropes, leaving fans eager for a rematch. Shalom reveals that both fighters are keen to make a comeback, with Clarke showing immense determination to reignite his career.

According to Shalom, "They're on the same timeline," setting the stage for a possible showdown in the Midlands this March or April. Speaking about Clarke's mindset, Shalom shares, "If you lose fights and you have the right hunger... he's just as hungry now as he was before the fight."

Clarke, expected to be cleared for training from January 10, expressed gratitude for the support from fans and the boxing community, emphasizing his unwavering passion for the sport. Despite setbacks, the Olympian's spirit remains unbroken, ready to step back into the ring.

Stay tuned for more electrifying matches as these Olympians gear up for a triumphant return, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of challenges!

After a thrilling 12-round slugfest that had fans on the edge of their seats last August, many boxers would usually take a break and indulge in holiday treats. However, Serhii Bohachuk isn't your typical fighter.

"I can’t sit home and wait," the determined Ukrainian stated. "I need more fights. Now I have a good fight with a good boxer. Okay, let’s go. It’s interesting for me. I can make a fight every two months. It’s good for me. It’s my job and I love my job. It’s my life."

Bohachuk is gearing up for a showdown with Israil Madrimov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Oleksandar Usyk-Tyson Fury 2 undercard at Kingdom Arena. This clash of junior middleweights promises to be more than just a good fight; it has the potential to rival the Ortiz-Bohachuk battle for sheer excitement.

"Madrimov has big experience from his amateur career," Bohachuk acknowledged. "He has good experience in the professional career... And I think he’ll be better and stronger in this fight."

Bohachuk's relentless spirit was evident in his previous bout with Ortiz, where despite the judges' decision, he believes he was the true victor. "I know I won this fight," he emphasized. "I won this fight, and I know this, everyone knows this."

Despite the setback, Bohachuk's determination only grew, leading him to this upcoming high-stakes fight. With his focus solely on training and preparing with Manny Robles in Mexico, Bohachuk is eager to showcase his skills and entertain the passionate Mexican boxing fans.

"I like Mexican people because Mexican people love boxing," Bohachuk expressed. "They’re interested, and I’m interested in showing these people quality boxing."

With his eyes set on a packed fight schedule for 2024 and beyond, Bohachuk is keenly aware of the fleeting nature of a boxer's career. "It’s a short career," he acknowledged. "I need to work now... I need to make money, show people who is Serhii Bohachuk, make my name in history, and number one, safe health."

As he preps for his upcoming bout, Bohachuk is focused on leaving a lasting legacy in the sport. Refusing to dwell on past accolades, he is determined to create new memorable moments in the ring.

"You tell me it was maybe the best fight in the year with Ortiz, and I’m telling you no – I’m trying to make the best fight in the year with Madrimov."

Step into the ring for Part 2 of this knockout series! If you missed the first round, go check it out to learn about Andy Foster's journey from fighter to commissioner. In the world of boxing, it's all about give and take. Take two punches for every one you land, and you might not last long. But deliver two for every one you receive, and you could be on your way to the Hall of Fame.

Boxing has a history of taking two steps back for every step forward, but California State Athletic Commission Executive Director Andy Foster is on a mission to change that narrative. He aims to see boxing land two punches for every one it takes, and he's not backing down from the challenge.

In a recent chat with Foster, he dished on some hot topics shaking up the boxing world, from weight-cutting woes to PED scandals and controversial judging decisions. Foster is all about fighter safety, especially when it comes to extreme weight-cutting. While same-day weigh-ins might not be making a comeback, Foster keeps a close eye on fighters' weight gains leading up to the fight to ensure a level playing field.

When it comes to fighters missing weight, the stakes are high. Foster recounted two high-profile incidents where fighters came in heavy, impacting the outcome of the bouts. From weight discrepancies to PED penalties, the California State Athletic Commission is on top of the game, setting rules to maintain fairness and integrity in the sport.

As Foster delved into the world of PEDs, he emphasized the importance of stringent penalties to deter athletes from using banned substances. He's all about protecting the fighters and upholding the integrity of the sport. Foster believes that most PED use occurs below the championship level, and stringent testing protocols at the top-tier events help keep the playing field clean.

In addition to weight issues and PEDs, bad judging decisions can stir up controversy in boxing. Foster understands the importance of having top-notch judges to minimize controversial verdicts. It's all about putting the right people in the right places to ensure fair outcomes and uphold the sport's credibility.

While there are no easy solutions to boxing's challenges, Foster's dedication to improving safety, fairness, and integrity in the sport is unwavering. So, if Andy Foster suggests you try golf, you might want to consider taking up a new hobby. Step into the ring and read Part 1 to learn more about Andy Foster's remarkable journey in the world of boxing.

Welterweight warrior Anthony “Juice” Young isn't letting a single defeat define his story. After bouncing back from a knockout loss to Alexis Rocha, Young is ready to prove he's still a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division.

Stepping into the ring at ACX1 Studios in Atlantic City this Saturday, Young is gearing up for a fight that he hopes will mark the beginning of his comeback. With a record of 23-3 (8 KOs), the 36-year-old fighter is set to face off against Windry Amadis Martinez, a 31-year-old boxer from the Dominican Republic with a record of 10-2 (5 KOs). This event, promoted by Danny “Swift” Garcia’s Swift Promotions, serves as Young’s chance to shine once more and pave his way back to the top.

Reflecting on his journey, Young shared, “Losing to Rocha was tough, but it didn’t crush me. If anything, it made me stronger—like a Super Saiyan.” Drawing inspiration from the resilience of characters in Dragon Ball Z, Young is determined to rise above his past setbacks and make a triumphant return to the ring.

With his eyes set on future challenges, Young is aiming high. He's eager to face off against champions like WBC titleholder Mario Barrios and WBA champion Eimantas Stanionis, fully believing that his prime is yet to come. Despite turning down certain fights due to financial reasons, Young remains steadfast in his pursuit of greatness.

Under the guidance of head coach Julio Sanchez, who stood by his side during the Rocha fight, Young feels ready to deliver a stellar performance come Saturday. “I want to showcase clean boxing and strategic prowess against an opponent who doesn't belong in the same ring as me,” Young expressed with determination.

As he envisions his path forward, Young is unwavering in his focus. “Barrios, Stanionis—remember those names,” he asserted confidently. “When my moment comes, I’ll seize it with everything I've got.”

Diving into the buzz surrounding the upcoming flyweight clash between Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai led me down a rabbit hole of opinions and musings. While skimming through an interview Yafai had with Tris Dixon, a comment caught my eye, "Articles in here getting too long. Just an observation." It may seem unrelated to the fighters themselves, but it speaks volumes about our modern-day need for quick fixes and instant gratification.

Edwards vs. Yafai isn't your typical fight; it's a slow burn, a nuanced piece of art in a world craving simplicity. This match-up demands attention, understanding, and a willingness to embrace the intricacies of the flyweight division. It's like a long-form article that requires you to invest time and effort to truly appreciate its brilliance.

In a world where heavyweight spectacles reign supreme, promoting a battle between flyweights like Edwards and Yafai poses its challenges. The fight holds immense significance within boxing circles, rooted in a decade-old rivalry that adds layers of depth to the narrative. Yet, the question remains – can a flyweight showdown captivate a broader audience in 2024?

The allure of knockouts and swift endings often overshadows the technical brilliance displayed in lower weight classes. Fans crave the adrenaline rush of a sudden finish, a knockout that leaves them breathless. This hunger for instant excitement explains the appeal of heavyweight bouts and flashy, high-profile exhibitions that capture our fleeting attention.

In a world plagued by dwindling attention spans and endless distractions, the plight of boxers like Edwards and Yafai is evident. While they excel in skill and finesse, their matches require patience and a discerning eye, qualities that seem scarce in today's fast-paced world. The onus falls on them to not only showcase their talents but also market themselves aggressively to stay relevant in a landscape dominated by fleeting trends and viral sensations.

Amidst the chaos of modern boxing, a glimmer of hope emerges from a fan's comment on Yafai's interview, "I enjoyed every bit of it. This was a good interview on a boxer I knew nothing about but his name. Now I am really interested in this fight." It serves as a reminder that amidst the noise, genuine passion and storytelling can still captivate hearts and minds, transcending weight classes and attention spans.

After a hard-earned victory over Regis Prograis, Jack Catterall is gearing up for his next challenge in the ring. The buzz is all about his return to Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena, with promoter Eddie Hearn already cooking up plans for his next fight in the city. The opponent is still under wraps, adding an air of mystery and excitement to the mix.

With his eyes set on a world title shot, Catterall and his team are eager for the next big step in his career. The IBF champion, Liam Paro, seems to be on their radar, but he's got his own hands full with an upcoming clash against the undefeated Richardson Hitchins. It's a waiting game to see how things unfold in that matchup.

Meanwhile, the WBO has thrown another curveball by ordering Catterall to face Arnold Barboza Jnr in a final eliminator for a shot at Teofimo Lopez's title. The stakes are high, and Catterall is keeping a close watch on the unfolding events before making his move. Hearn is optimistic about the potential matchup, hinting at the possibility of it turning into a world title shot.

Excitement is brewing as Catterall's journey to a world title continues, with twists and turns keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The anticipation is palpable as the pieces fall into place for what could be a career-defining moment for the talented junior welterweight.

Get ready for an electrifying showdown as Sunny Edwards steps into the ring against Galal Yafai in a thrilling flyweight fight at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, England. The stakes are high as these two talented fighters face off, with Edwards tipping the scales at 111lbs, just a fraction lighter than Yafai at 111.4lbs.

This match marks a long-awaited moment for Yafai, who competes in his hometown for the ninth time as a professional boxer. Meanwhile, Edwards is looking to bounce back from his only defeat, a hard-hitting loss to Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez in December 2023.

In another exciting bout, Callum Smith makes his comeback after a tough defeat to Artur Beterbiev, setting the stage for a potential clash with Joshua Buatsi in 2025. The action doesn't stop there, as Welsh super middleweight Taylor Bevan makes his professional debut against England's Greg O'Neil.

The arena is buzzing with anticipation as these fighters gear up to showcase their skills and determination in a series of intense matchups. From Commonwealth middleweight title fights to lightweight and welterweight showdowns, the night promises non-stop action and suspense.

Stay tuned as these fighters leave it all in the ring, chasing victory and glory in a night that will surely be remembered for its thrilling battles and unforgettable moments.

Exciting news for boxing fans! William Scull is set for a series of epic fights in the near future. After his impressive win over Vladimir Shishkin to claim the IBF super middleweight title, Scull has some tough challenges ahead. The IBF has ordered him to face the winner of Diego Pacheco and Christian Mbilli, with a showdown against Shishkin also on the cards.

In a twist of events, Salita Promotions' request for an immediate rematch between Scull and Shishkin was denied by the IBF. Despite the setback, the action doesn't stop there. Salita Promotions filed protests with both the German Federation and the IBF, leading to some interesting developments.

As per the latest decisions, Shishkin will maintain his No. 2 ranking, while Scull is mandated to defend his title by April 19, 2025. The winner of this mandatory defense will then face off against Shishkin before August 17, 2025. However, there's a catch - there's currently no mandatory challenger lined up for Scull. Enter Christian Mbilli and Diego Pacheco, the IBF's No. 3 and No. 4 contenders, who are set to battle it out in an eliminator.

Mark your calendars for December 10, when purse bids will take place, setting the stage for more thrilling matchups in the world of boxing. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds in the ring!

Zelfa Barrett, the world-ranked junior lightweight, is eager to step back into the ring and make a big splash in 2025. Despite a recent fight falling through, Barrett remains determined to showcase his skills after a victorious world title eliminator bout against Jordan Gill in April.

His promoter, Eddie Hearn, is already planning Barrett's next move, eyeing a potential matchup with former WBA featherweight champion Ray Ford. Hearn emphasized the importance of Barrett staying active and taking on formidable opponents to capitalize on his talent and potential.

Barrett's journey has seen him face tough challenges, including a title fight in Abu Dhabi against Shavkat Rakhimov. While he fell short in that bout, Barrett has since bounced back with three wins, putting himself back in the mix for significant fights.

Looking ahead, Barrett's team is exploring options to secure him a meaningful matchup, potentially even considering fights abroad if necessary. Hearn acknowledges the challenges of bringing big fights to Manchester but remains committed to guiding Barrett towards a substantial opportunity in the boxing world.

As Barrett gears up for his next chapter in the ring, fans can expect to see him in action in the spring of 2025, hungry to prove himself on the global stage.

In the dynamic world of heavyweight boxing, Martin Bakole often stands out as the underdog. While Zhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel gear up to face each other, Bakole is left without an opponent for now. However, his prospects are looking up, especially with his favorable rating by the IBF.

The IBF champion, Daniel Dubois, holds the top spot, leaving the second and third spots vacant. Kabayel, Bakole, Zhang, and Efe Ajagba follow in the rankings. The IBF has mandated a showdown between Bakole and Ajagba to determine the top contender for Dubois.

Ajagba, a formidable Nigerian boxer based in Texas, boasts an impressive record of 20-1 with 14 knockouts. Bakole, on the other hand, gained recognition after a dominant fifth-round victory over Jared Anderson in California.

Promoted by Boxxer, Bakole is eyeing the opportunity to face Ajagba, who is represented by Top Rank. Shalom, from Boxxer, is eager to organize this exciting match, emphasizing Bakole's potential to excel on the world stage.

"Fighting Martin Bakole, would you want your heavyweight fighting Martin Bakole? People have probably looked at the last few fights and seen what’s happened to Jared Anderson, and he [Bakole] can make very good fighters look very average," Shalom expressed confidently. "Once he gets his world title, it will be impossible to avoid him."

The impending clash between Bakole and Ajagba is not just a fight but a stepping stone towards a world title shot. The stage is set for Bakole to prove his mettle and solidify his position in the fiercely competitive heavyweight division.

In a recent social media update, Oscar De La Hoya delved into the saga surrounding Ryan Garcia's proposed exhibition with kickboxer Rukiya Anpo on December 30. Following a tense face-off at a Los Angeles press conference, De La Hoya clarified that Garcia's participation had not been greenlit by Golden Boy and emphasized the importance of honoring contractual obligations.

Despite their ups and downs, De La Hoya made it clear that he wasn't looking to derail the December event but rather to ensure that Garcia abides by their agreement. Asserting his stance, De La Hoya stated, "When you sign a contract, it means it's legally binding [...] I demand he honors his contract."

Expressing his frustration at feeling sidelined during negotiations, De La Hoya emphasized the necessity of upholding professional agreements. He debunked any notions of obstructing Garcia's opportunities, emphasizing his support for the young fighter's success while emphasizing the importance of contractual integrity.

Drawing a parallel to business ownership, De La Hoya highlighted the need to stand firm on terms and not compromise on principles. The promoter's commitment to upholding contracts and ensuring fairness shone through his impassioned remarks.

Meanwhile, Garcia's suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission until April 2025 due to failed drug tests added another layer of complexity to the situation, underscoring the challenges faced by both fighter and promoter in navigating professional commitments.

In a thrilling face-off in Manchester, heavyweight contenders Derek Chisora and Otto Wallin ignited the anticipation for their upcoming battle next year. The stage is set at Co-op Live on February 8 for what is dubbed as "The Last Dance," marking Chisora's 49th fight as he approaches a monumental 50th bout in his career.

Chisora, a seasoned London fighter at 40 years old with an impressive record of 35-13 (23 KOs), is no stranger to taking on the best in the division since his debut in 2007. His recent hard-fought victory over Joe Joyce has only fueled the excitement surrounding this clash.

On the other side of the ring stands Wallin, the Swedish southpaw with a record of 27-2 (15 KOs), known for his memorable battle with Tyson Fury in 2019. Wallin's determination and resilience were evident in his comeback win in July, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown with Chisora.

Wallin expressed his focus on continuous improvement, stating, "I'm here to fight, to win, and to keep climbing. This is my time." In response, Chisora confidently asserted, "I'm going to be all over you like a baby's rash. I'm excited for my 50th fight—it's going to be huge."

Promoter Frank Warren added to the buzz by hinting at the future opportunities awaiting the victor of this anticipated bout. "The winner will step into the top echelon, setting the stage for even bigger fights ahead. This will be a war, mark my words," Warren emphasized.

Adding to the excitement, an enticing undercard fight featuring Zach Parker and Willy Hutchinson promises to captivate audiences at 175lbs, showcasing the depth of talent on display on fight night. Stay tuned for what promises to be a night of electrifying action and unforgettable moments in the world of heavyweight boxing.

Immersed in the world of boxing since birth, Stephen Smith has a deep-rooted passion for the sport. As a sought-after trainer from Liverpool, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having been part of a boxing family with successful careers. With a record of 28-4 (15 KOs) as a professional, Smith now shares his expertise with fighters like Charlie Edwards, Ste Clarke, Liv Hussey, and Hamzah Uddin.

Reflecting on his transition to coaching, Smith shares, "I didn't realize the level of commitment coaching demands. While I thrive on staying busy, coaching presents a different kind of challenge. Fighters give their all in the gym, then rest, while as a coach, I'm constantly switching focus to train the next one without much time to switch off."

Discussing his work with Belfast's promising junior middleweight Caoimhin Agyarko, Smith mentions, "I started working with him on a one-to-one basis, offering a more personalized approach compared to his previous training setup in Sheffield. It's all about finding what works best for the fighter, and I respect his decision to explore different training environments."

Smith also sheds light on his collaboration with Michael, emphasizing the importance of consistent training even when the main coach, Buddy McGirt, is unavailable. He explains, "Michael needed to stay sharp, so we continued training together. When an opportunity for a fight arose on short notice, he was ready and willing to step in, showcasing his dedication to the sport."

In the dynamic world of boxing, Stephen Smith stands out not only as a skilled trainer but as a mentor who understands the unique needs and aspirations of each fighter he guides.

The highly-anticipated showdown between Souleymane Cissokho and Egidijus Kavaliauskas has hit a speed bump! Cissokho's hand injury during sparring has forced a postponement of their December 7 clash, much to the disappointment of fight fans.

Boxium Promotions, the event organizer, broke the news today, revealing that the event in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, will be rescheduled. In a statement, they emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the fighters: "The health and safety of our athletes remain our top priority."

The bout, which was set to be a WBC eliminator at welterweight, promised to be a thrilling encounter. Cissokho, a decorated Olympic gold medalist from Rio 2016, boasts an impressive record of 17-0 (9). On the other side, the seasoned 36-year-old Kavaliauskas, known as Mean Machine, brings his formidable 24-2-1 (19 KOs) record to the table.

While fans will have to wait a little longer for this epic showdown, the anticipation is sure to build as both fighters gear up for their rescheduled battle. Wishing Souleymane a speedy recovery and looking forward to the announcement of the new fight date!

The atmosphere at the final press conference for the upcoming flyweight bout between Sunny Edwards and Galal Yafai was filled with mutual respect and anticipation for the showdown on Saturday at Resorts World Arena. Olympic gold medalist Yafai, 8-0 (6 KOs), is stepping up to face the former world champion Edwards, who boasts a record of 21-1 (4 KOs).

Edwards acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, "I've knuckled down and done everything that's been asked of me. I'm excited about the fight." Despite their friendly relationship outside the ring, both fighters are eager to settle the debate of who is the better boxer once and for all. Edwards hinted at a more aggressive approach in the ring, signaling a potential shift in his usual defensive style.

Yafai, equally gracious, expressed his enthusiasm for the high-stakes fight, acknowledging Sunny's skills and the significance of the bout being held in Birmingham. The fighters' polite demeanor during the face-off belied the intensity that is sure to unfold in the ring come fight night.

Yafai's confidence in his abilities was evident as he affirmed his belief in victory, stating, "I wouldn't take the fight if I wasn't confident." The brief confrontation between the fighters' brothers added an extra layer of intrigue to the build-up, further fueling the excitement surrounding the much-anticipated matchup.

In a clash where mutual respect meets unwavering confidence, Edwards and Yafai are poised to deliver an electrifying performance that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Exciting news in the boxing world! Eddie Hearn has just revealed that a thrilling offer has been extended to Floyd Schofield for a showdown with WBC lightweight champion, Shakur Stevenson.

Originally set to clash with his mandatory challenger, William Zepeda, on the Riyadh Season card in Saudi Arabia, Stevenson faced a setback when Zepeda withdrew due to a left forearm injury sustained in his recent victory over Tevin Farmer.

Amidst the speculation of a replacement, enter Golden Boy fighter Floyd Schofield. With an impressive record of 18-0 (12 KOs) and a recent standout win against Rene Tellez Giron, Schofield wasted no time expressing his desire for a shot at the world title. Fueling the anticipation, a social media exchange between Schofield and Stevenson added fuel to the fire.

Hearn, the mastermind behind Stevenson’s career, has confirmed ongoing talks with Golden Boy to potentially feature this electrifying matchup on the star-studded February card. Sharing insights on the negotiations, Hearn expressed, “We agreed to fight Zepeda, so did Golden Boy apparently. But apparently, he’s injured after a very lackluster performance. Schofield is a name that’s in the hat, we’ve been talking to Golden Boy, we’ve made them an offer and we’re trying to tie that up with His Excellency now.”

Anticipation is high for this clash of the unbeaten American talents, promising a showdown filled with excitement and rivalry. Stay tuned as the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of these negotiations on this Thanksgiving Day!

Get ready to witness an electrifying rematch between WBO junior lightweight titleholder Emanuel Navarrete and former two-weight champion Oscar Valdez! But before they step into the ring on December 7, these two boxing warriors sat down with Mexican boxing legends Julio Cesar Chavez Snr, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manuel Marquez for an epic roundtable discussion.

In a one-of-a-kind half-hour special called "The Final Word: Legendary Rematches of Mexican Boxing," set to premiere on November 30 at 6 a.m. ET on ESPN2, these boxing icons delve into the essence of Mexican boxing greatness. From intense training regimes to the indomitable spirit that fuels their passion, this roundtable promises to be a deep dive into the heart of Mexican boxing heritage.

The first encounter between Navarrete and Valdez in August 2023 was nothing short of spectacular, with Navarrete clinching a unanimous decision victory. Now, as they gear up for their highly anticipated rematch, the boxing world eagerly awaits another legendary showdown that will undoubtedly etch its mark in the annals of Mexican boxing rivalries.

Filmed in the bustling streets of Mexico City, the six fighters shared anecdotes, playful banter, and profound reflections on the timeless legacy of Mexican boxing. The camaraderie between these legends is palpable as they exchange stories and delve into what truly defines the spirit of Mexican boxing.

As the countdown begins for Navarrete vs. Valdez II, the stage is set for a clash of titans that will not only showcase their exceptional talent but also pay homage to the rich tapestry of Mexican boxing history. Get ready for a battle that transcends sport and embodies the true essence of Mexican warrior spirit!