Japanese boxing sensation Naoya Inoue, known as the "Monster," is set to pursue a second undisputed world championship, this time in the superbantamweight division. In an exciting showdown scheduled for December, Inoue will face off against Marlon Tapales, with all four superbantamweight belts up for grabs. In 2022, Inoue achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first undisputed bantamweight world champion in over 50 years. However, he vacated his bantamweight titles to make the move up to the superbantamweight division. In his debut at this new weight class, he secured the WBC and WBO titles with a victory over American fighter Stephen Fulton in July. Now, on December 26 in Tokyo, Inoue aims to complete the set by challenging Marlon Tapales, the IBF and WBA superbantamweight champion from the Philippines. Inoue, the undefeated 30-year-old boxer with an impressive record of 25 wins, including 22 knockouts, is determined to demonstrate his formidable power and emerge victorious in this pivotal match. Inoue shared his ambitions, saying, "I want to show my overwhelming power and win, even in a fight like this where becoming undisputed champion in a second division is on the line." He added his intent to secure a knockout victory. Marlon Tapales, aged 31, boasts a record of 37 wins, with 19 of them coming by knockout. In April, he pulled off an upset victory against Uzbekistan's Murodjon Akhmadaliev, claiming the IBF and WBA titles via a split decision. Inoue respects his upcoming opponent, acknowledging Tapales as a tough fighter with solid defensive skills and impressive technique. Notably, Inoue's victory over England's Paul Butler in December of the previous year made him the first undisputed bantamweight world champion since Panama's Enrique Pinder in 1972. He also became only the ninth undisputed world champion since the era of four-belt titles commenced in 2004. Terence Crawford of the United States recently became the first fighter to hold all the belts in two weight divisions when he clinched the undisputed welterweight world title in July. Inoue now has a unique opportunity to match this achievement just one year after his remarkable run through the bantamweight division. Reflecting on his journey, Inoue expressed his satisfaction, "It took me over four years to win all the bantamweight belts, but it looks like I can win all the superbantamweight titles within 2023. I'm really glad that I've been able to quickly make up for the time I lost to the coronavirus pandemic." The upcoming fight between Inoue and Tapales promises to be a monumental event in the world of boxing, and fans can eagerly anticipate the clash between these two exceptional fighters.

Jorge Linares Retires from Boxing After Defeat to Jack Catterall Jorge Linares, the former three-division world champion, has officially announced his retirement from professional boxing at the age of 38. His decision to retire came after a unanimous decision loss to Jack Catterall in Liverpool, England, marking his fourth consecutive defeat and his sixth loss in his last ten fights. Linares had a remarkable 21-year career in professional boxing, spanning from 2002 to 2023. During his illustrious career, he captured titles in three weight divisions, including the World Boxing Council (WBC) featherweight championship, the World Boxing Association (WBA) super featherweight championship, and the WBC lightweight championship. Linares compiled an impressive record of 47 wins, 9 losses, with 29 victories coming by knockout. His professional journey began with a victory in December 2002 when he defeated Kyong Soo Chung in Osaka, Japan. Throughout his career, Jorge Linares proudly represented Teiken Promotions, a company led by Akihiko Honda in Japan. Following his last fight, Linares affirmed his decision to retire, stating, “This was my last fight, I told my team, I told my wife, my family, that if I lost this fight, I would retire. So I lost, and I’m leaving boxing. That’s why I’m very happy as I have accomplished so much. I told my team that it was a beautiful fight. Finishing today by decision was a victory for me.” The World Boxing Council (WBC) and its President, Mauricio Sulaimán, extend their best wishes to Jorge Linares in his future endeavors, recognizing the remarkable moments and contributions he has made to the sport.

The prospect of Terence Crawford making a leap to the super-middleweight division, specifically to face Canelo Alvarez, has raised eyebrows within the boxing community. Yet, the notion has piqued the interest of former world champion Antonio Tarver, who himself has tasted victory over the legendary Roy Jones Jr. Crawford asserted his dominance in the welterweight division with a stellar performance in July, where he secured a remarkable victory over Errol Spence in Las Vegas. Since that memorable bout, Crawford's name has been linked with various opponents, with Canelo Alvarez being the standout candidate following his triumph over Jermell Charlo. Antonio Tarver, renowned for his exceptional victories over Roy Jones Jr. during his time as a world champion at 175 pounds, is closely monitoring Crawford's impressive run. He expressed his thoughts on the potential move up to super-middleweight to challenge Canelo. Tarver emphasized the intensity such a matchup would bring, stating, "It would be a lot more heated than the Charlo fight because Terence Crawford is one of those guys who means what he says. He isn't there tapping; he's standing on everything he says, and you have to respect fighters like that." Despite his admiration for Crawford's commitment, Tarver acknowledges that adjusting to Canelo's natural strength and power would be the critical factor in such a clash. The raw power of the Mexican superstar is always a game-changer in the ring. While the Crawford vs. Canelo superfight may appear ambitious to some, the potential showdown continues to tantalize boxing enthusiasts, leaving fans eagerly awaiting any developments in this intriguing storyline.

As Tyson Fury gears up for his highly anticipated exhibition bout against Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia, the heavyweight champion remains undeterred about the bigger prize awaiting him in December – a showdown against Oleksandr Usyk. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Fury expressed his conviction that Usyk "has to" face him in December, emphasizing that his rival has "no choice." Fury's confidence stems from the contractual agreement, making it clear that any delay or evasion would lead to a legal breach, ultimately resulting in a lawsuit. Despite the potential risks of injury or unforeseen outcomes in the Ngannou bout, Fury is resolute in his belief that he will dispose of his opponent within six rounds. His intent is to swiftly deal with Ngannou, whom he humorously referred to as a "sausage," before pivoting to the heavyweight clash with Usyk. The scheduled date for the Fury-Usyk encounter is set for December 23, just eight weeks after Fury's exhibition with Ngannou. Usyk had previously expressed a desire for a 14-week training camp for the fight, which now appears challenging unless he commences with substantial training in the coming weeks. Fury, with his commitment to staying in peak physical condition for the Ngannou fight, has the advantage of transitioning quickly into his training camp for Usyk. Fans eagerly anticipate the undisputed heavyweight championship clash and will be content as long as both fighters are prepared and willing to engage in a memorable contest. As Tyson Fury prepares for his sparring session with Ngannou and subsequently squares up against Usyk, the boxing world awaits a historic bout that promises to deliver thrilling action and a potential test of Fury's formidable skills.

In the world of heavyweight boxing, a legendary figure is hinting at a return from retirement to take on Tyson Fury. Riddick "Big Daddy" Bowe, a former undisputed champion, has expressed his desire to challenge Fury and "expose" him in the ring. Tyson Fury, on the cusp of becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion with a highly-anticipated bout against Oleksandr Usyk in the pipeline, has grabbed the attention of the boxing world. However, before Fury can focus on the Usyk showdown, he is set to engage in a crossover spectacle with MMA star Francis Ngannou. Riddick Bowe, who had a remarkable career and even defeated Evander Holyfield twice out of three fights, regrets that he never had the opportunity to face Lennox Lewis professionally, although they did compete for an Olympic Gold Medal in the amateurs. He considers the absence of a professional fight between them as one of the sport's greatest missed opportunities. The 56-year-old Bowe, who boasts a record of 43 wins and one loss, is confident in his abilities and envisions a strategy to take on Tyson Fury. He believes that he would mirror Fury's movements and feints before delivering a knockout blow. Bowe, acknowledging the height difference, is inspired to make it a war in the ring. While the boxing world eagerly awaits Fury's matchup with Ngannou on October 28, a win for Fury would pave the way for the much-anticipated Usyk fight, with the potential for a surprise comeback by Riddick Bowe adding intrigue to the heavyweight division.  

WBO bantamweight world champion, Jason Moloney, recently shared the fascinating story of his sporting journey during a visit to Rockhampton. While Moloney has become a household name in the boxing world, his initial foray into the sport was a mere fitness pursuit during the off-season of his first love, Australian rules football. Intriguingly, Moloney initially laced up his boxing gloves as a means to stay in shape while pursuing a career in Aussie rules. His passion for the sport led him to put on the gloves at the age of 13. Over the course of three years, he primarily used boxing for fitness. Eventually, the passion for boxing overtook his love for football, leading him to embrace boxing as his career. Moloney's journey was not without its challenges, as he faced three consecutive losses in his early amateur fights. However, his unwavering determination and consistent hard work turned his fortunes around. The 32-year-old world champion emphasizes the importance of dedication and consistency in achieving success in the tough world of boxing. Turning professional at the age of 24, Moloney felt he had exhausted his opportunities as an amateur. His goal from the outset was to become a world champion, and he realized this dream with a WBO bantamweight world title win in May of the previous year. Moloney's hunger for success remains insatiable, and he is determined to collect more belts and ultimately become the undisputed champion of the world. As he prepares for his first title defense, expected in early 2024, Moloney's journey from Aussie rules to boxing stardom serves as an inspiring example for aspiring fighters. He is not only a dedicated athlete but also a role model who values the opportunity to inspire the next generation of boxers. Moloney's remarkable story of transformation highlights the significance of unwavering dedication and perseverance in achieving one's dreams, even when faced with early setbacks.  

Japanese former two-time champion Miyo Yoshida is on the quest for another world title opportunity, and her path leads her to face off against Dallas-based Shurretta Metcalf. The highly-anticipated bout is scheduled for Tuesday, November 7th, as part of DiBella Entertainment's Broadway Boxing series, titled "Heroes on the Hudson." This event is dedicated to supporting the heroic veterans of the United States Armed Forces and will take place at the Edison Ballroom in New York City. The contest is set for ten rounds in the bantamweight division, and former world champion and US Marine Veteran, Jamel "Semper Fi" Herring, will be competing in the main event. Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment, acknowledged the significance of the match, emphasizing that it could lead to a world title challenge for the winner. Miyo Yoshida (16-3), a two-time world champion, is no stranger to the championship stage. Despite facing a title loss due to an accidental headbutt, she reclaimed the belt in a rematch six months later. In her debut under DiBella Entertainment, Yoshida secured a win against Indeya Smith in the United States. Yoshida aims to deliver an even more impressive performance in her upcoming bout, as she was previously hindered by visa issues and limited training time. Her journey to a world title opportunity has been marked by dedication and perseverance, and she's eager to prove herself on November 7th. For Shurretta Metcalf (12-4-1, 2 KOs), this match presents an opportunity to assert her presence in the ring against a two-time world champion. Metcalf is coming off a notable victory against the former IBO bantamweight champion Melissa Oddessa Parker. As a fighter from a military family, Metcalf feels a deep connection to the "Heroes on the Hudson" event, honoring veterans and military personnel. The event will commence with five amateur bouts, each featuring an NYPD officer or military veteran. It will culminate with four world-class professional bouts, including the headline fight between Yoshida and Metcalf, which will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN.

Tyson Fury's upcoming bout against Francis Ngannou may be garnering attention, but the undisputed heavyweight championship fight against Oleksandr Usyk is on the horizon. Both Fury and Usyk have inked contracts for this highly-anticipated matchup, with a tentative December date reportedly in the works. However, doubts have surfaced about the feasibility of a December fight due to the short turnaround, especially if Fury manages to dispatch Ngannou quickly without any injuries. In a characteristically candid manner, Fury dismissed any concerns about the bout's timeline. When questioned about a potential delay in the fight due to Usyk desiring a longer training camp, Fury confidently stated that Usyk would be in breach of contract if he attempts to push back the fight. Fury is adamant that the bout will proceed as planned in December, emphasizing that Usyk has a contractual obligation to face him in the ring. Despite the tight schedule and uncertainties surrounding Fury's exhibition match against Ngannou, Fury remains resolute about the December showdown taking place in Saudi Arabia. According to Fury, the contract is binding, and Usyk has no room to maneuver; failure to meet the agreed-upon date would result in legal consequences for the Ukrainian fighter. In light of Fury's firm stance and his commitment to fulfilling the contractual obligations, it appears that the boxing world can indeed anticipate the long-awaited clash between Fury and Usyk in December. The battle for the undisputed heavyweight title promises to be a significant sporting event, and fans can look forward to this epic showdown in the final month of the year.

In the world of professional boxing, there's a debate surrounding the significance of titles like the WBA Pan African and WBF Africa belts. Critics often label these titles as meaningless in terms of advancing a boxer's career. However, history tells a different story, with notable fighters like Noni Tenge and Cassius Baloyi using these stepping stones to catch the eye of prestigious organizations such as the IBF, one of the four respected sanctioning bodies alongside the WBA, WBF, and WBO. Noni Tenge, a former WBF champion, used her platform to challenge and dethrone Daniela Smith as the welterweight holder. Tenge's victory etched her name in history as the first South African female boxer to claim a prestigious world title. On the other hand, Cassius Baloyi's journey to recognition involved his consistency as the IBO lightweight champion, earning him the approval of the IBF for a significant bout against Manuel Medina. Now, all eyes are on Mapule "Thunder" Ngubane, who recently secured the WBA Pan African middleweight belt at the Ridge Casino in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga. Her impressive victory came in the fourth round, as she delivered a flurry of well-executed body blows to defeat Kenyan opponent Charity Mujwiri. Ngubane's win was a highlight of Boxing South Africa's Rise of Women in Boxing Series, demonstrating the potential of these titles in elevating a boxer's career. Ngubane, now the WBA Pan African champion, is confident that this title will pave the way for bigger fights with substantial purse money. She attributes her success and opportunities to the Boxing South Africa series, which enabled her to fight twice in a single year, defending her SA title and adding the international title to her collection. Without this platform, her dreams of making a defense of the SA title might have remained unrealized. In the main event of the evening, Matshidiso Mokebisi successfully defended the SA junior-featherweight belt by a split points decision after a grueling 10-round bout against Monalisa Takane. The judges' scores of 98-92 (twice) and 96-94 for Takane showcased the fierce competition and determination that makes these events memorable in the world of women's boxing. The stories of fighters like Mapule Ngubane continue to underscore the significance of titles like the WBA Pan African and WBF Africa belts as crucial stepping stones for budding boxers looking to make their mark on the global stage. These belts, though sometimes questioned, can be the launchpad for dreams of greater recognition and championship glory.

In the world of super middleweight boxing, the pursuit of the undisputed championship title is heating up, and David Benavidez has made a striking statement. The WBA 'regular' super middleweight champion, David Morrell Jr., is being hailed by Benavidez as the most substantial threat to the coveted 168-lb undisputed championship, second only to himself. The undisputed title is currently held by the impressive Canelo Alvarez, and both Morrell (9-0, 8 KOs) and Benavidez (27-0, 23 KOs) are determined to dethrone the reigning kingpin. Benavidez expresses his desire to face the 25-year-old Cuban sensation, Morrell, in the ring. However, questions loom over whether he can maintain the 168-lb weight class for long enough to make this showdown a reality. Known for his propensity to absorb punches and his durable chin, Benavidez's style might need a significant transformation to tackle Morrell's power shots effectively, as the Cuban fighter possesses significant punching power. Benavidez is making weight at the division's limit by a whisker, and a potential clash with Morrell could force him to move up to the 175-lb weight class. While the prospect of a Benavidez vs. Morrell showdown looms, it's likely that Benavidez will proceed with caution, avoiding high-risk fights until he secures the long-awaited showdown with Canelo. His mandatory WBC title defense against Demetrius Andrade on November 25th is a testament to his cautious approach. This crucial matchup will take place on Showtime PPV at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas. David Benavidez, reflecting on the super middleweight landscape, pinpointed David Morrell as a significant threat to the coveted undisputed title. Benavidez's strategy appears to be treading carefully to preserve his position and readiness for the potentially career-defining bout with Canelo. The outcome of the November fight and his ability to maintain the 168-lb limit will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this promising division. As the quest for the undisputed super middleweight title continues, the boxing world eagerly awaits developments in this high-stakes showdown. Morrell, with his unique style and power, and Benavidez, with his determination and durability, promise to deliver an enthralling spectacle if they eventually cross paths in the pursuit of the ultimate championship glory.

In a strategic move on behalf of middleweight contender Chris Eubank Jr., Nova Sport's Elliot Amoakoh recently reached out to the World Boxing Organization (WBO) with a crucial request. The request aimed to withdraw Eubank from the pool of contenders for a mandatory title shot against the reigning WBO/IBF champion, Zhanibek Alimkhanuly. Amoakoh's letter emphasized the importance of upcoming discussions and immediate plans while urging the WBO to refrain from considering Eubank for any mandatory bouts or eliminators in the coming weeks. As a middleweight contender, Eubank's decision to temporarily step aside from mandatory title considerations showcases a strategic approach to his career. The letter highlighted the fact that negotiations for an alternative fight are currently in progress. This decision aligns with Eubank's desire to be considerate of everyone's time in the sport while also ensuring that opportunities for other fighters are preserved. Eubank's #1 rating by the WBO underscores his position as a top contender in the division. This strategic maneuver by Eubank and his team underscores their commitment to making well-informed decisions that optimize his career trajectory. By temporarily removing himself from the mandatory title shot equation, Eubank aims to explore other opportunities and continue his journey as a prominent middleweight contender. The letter from Elliot Amoakoh on behalf of Chris Eubank Jr. reflects the dynamic and strategic nature of the boxing world, where fighters make calculated moves to secure their future in the sport. Eubank's decision to withdraw from mandatory considerations signals a pivotal moment in his career, emphasizing the importance of timing and strategic planning. With his #1 WBO rating and a dedicated team supporting him, Chris Eubank Jr. is poised for a promising future in the middleweight division. The decision to step aside from mandatory title contention is a testament to his commitment to smart career moves and the desire to continue challenging the best in the business. In a sport where every move matters, Eubank's decision showcases his dedication to excellence and strategic advancement in the competitive world of professional boxing. As negotiations for an alternative fight continue, the boxing community eagerly awaits Eubank's next steps on his path to greatness.

The heavyweight boxing world is abuzz with anticipation as Tyson Fury, the reigning WBC champion, prepares to face off against former UFC star Francis Ngannou in a historic matchup on October 28, 2023, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This crossover event is set to redefine combat sports history, and fans can't wait to witness the action. Ticket Details and Pricing If you're eager to be part of this epic showdown, here's what you need to know about ticket availability and pricing. Tickets for the Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou fight come in various categories, catering to different preferences and budgets. The price range starts at a budget-friendly $185 for the cheapest seats and goes up to $2,460 for the most premium viewing experience. To secure your seats, head over to the eticketing.co website. The Epic Showdown Tyson Fury, known for his dominance in the heavyweight boxing world, will lock horns with the formidable former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou. This clash of titans will take place in the heart of Saudi Arabia, amidst the scorching desert heat, adding another layer of intensity to the spectacle. Where to Watch For fans in the United States, the action-packed 10-round bout and the undercard matches will be available for streaming on ESPN+. To catch every moment of this historic event, you can access it for a fee of $79.99. This is your chance to witness Fury and Ngannou, both iconic figures in combat sports, go head to head in the ring. Mark Your Calendar The countdown to the Fury vs Ngannou showdown has begun. On October 28th, these two heavyweight warriors will go to battle in Saudi Arabia, and the world is eagerly awaiting this extraordinary clash. In the lead-up to the fight night, anticipation is building among fans across the globe. Get ready to witness a remarkable display of skill and determination as Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou step into the ring. This is a showdown you won't want to miss. For the latest updates and in-depth coverage, stay tuned to ESPN+ pay-per-view (PPV) and catch the live broadcast on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV in the United States, starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT. Don't miss this chance to be part of history. Get your tickets, mark your calendar, and prepare for a battle of epic proportions between two of the world's most prominent heavyweight fighters.

Anthony Joshua, the former heavyweight world champion, is setting his sights on a future showdown with Tyson Fury, showcasing his dedication to delivering what the fans desire. Joshua, who last fought in August, is currently without an opponent and fight date. While there were discussions of a highly anticipated match with Deontay Wilder, recent talks have hit a roadblock following the withdrawal of an offer from Saudi Arabia's Skills Challenge. On the other hand, Tyson Fury has two fights lined up, first taking on Francis Ngannou over 10 rounds in Riyadh on October 28. Should Fury emerge victorious, an undisputed clash with Oleksandr Usyk is on the horizon, as Usyk holds the WBA, WBO, and IBF belts he secured after defeating Joshua. The hopes of fans are pinned on the potential face-off between the two British heavyweights, widely regarded as the best of their generation. When asked about the likelihood of a fight with Fury by Martin Brundle of Sky Sports F1, Joshua expressed his commitment to delivering what the fans want. He stated, "I’m here for the fans, and I know what they want. My job is to deliver, and I will 100% do my end of the bargain. It’s up to the other team to play ball, but one step at a time." Joshua also outlined his fight plans for the next six months, revealing, "In December, I want to get back in the ring, and in April, I need to secure a victory. After that, we can discuss the possibility of the big fight in the future." Recent reports have linked Joshua to a potential matchup against Filip Hrgovic, signaling his determination to maintain an active boxing schedule and remain on the path to significant showdowns.

In a monumental showdown, Terence "Bud" Crawford emerged victorious over Errol "The Big Fish" Spence Jr., marking his 40th undefeated career win and solidifying his place among boxing greats. The highly anticipated bout unfolded in the T-Mobile Arena, where both fighters and their teams faced immense stakes. The weigh-in ceremony, laden with legends of boxing such as Roy Jones Jr., Evander Holyfield, Antonio Tarver, and Riddick Bowe in attendance, set the tone for the monumental clash. The presence of these iconic figures added gravity to an event that was already destined for the annals of boxing history. Inside the arena, both Crawford and Spence underwent the usual pre-fight rituals, but the intensity in the air was palpable. As the two boxers faced off, their expressions spoke volumes. The atmosphere conveyed that something extraordinary was about to unfold, with an energy suggesting a clash of epic proportions. However, in a surprising twist, when it was time for the customary trash talk and posturing, a moment of genuine sportsmanship unfolded. Spence leaned in close to his opponent and whispered, "Thank you for making this fight happen." Crawford, breaking the stereotype of pre-fight animosity, responded with a smile and gratitude. It was a unique moment that stood in contrast to the typical pre-fight theatrics. Crawford's uncharacteristically early arrival at the arena added to the unusual events leading up to the bout. The champion, known for his calm demeanor, made an emphatic entrance, arriving exactly on time. This punctuality was unprecedented, considering the magnitude of the fight and the fact that three other undercard bouts were scheduled before his own. It was a testament to Crawford's focus and determination. As the bout approached, Crawford exuded an aura of confidence and intensity that left those around him convinced of his impending victory. Bernard Davis, a close friend and camp member, predicted a 10th-round knockout, emphasizing that Crawford had never appeared this ready. While friends often express such sentiments before a fight, Crawford's demeanor throughout the week conveyed a deep commitment and focus. In conclusion, Terence Crawford's victory over Errol Spence Jr. not only secured his 40th undefeated win but also positioned him among the elite of boxing's greats. The unique moments leading up to the fight, marked by sportsmanship and punctuality, added to the historic significance of this epic clash in the world of boxing