Promoter Ben Shalom has set the boxing world abuzz by pitching a high-stakes 'BOXXER vs. Matchroom' event for 2025, reminiscent of the successful Matchroom vs. Queensberry card earlier in the year. Inspired by Turki Al-Alshikh’s blockbuster events, Shalom hopes to see his promotional outfit, BOXXER, square off against Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom in a five-fight card that could redefine rivalries in the sport.

Speaking to iFL TV, Shalom outlined his vision, teasing a potential main event between long-time rivals Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn, a grudge match that fans have been clamoring for. This fight, rumored to be set for May 2025, could serve as the headline for a much-anticipated card, should both promotional teams agree to the challenge.

Shalom’s proposal follows the aftermath of Matchroom’s stunning defeat against Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions during the Bivol-Zinad undercard in June, where Eddie Hearn’s team was whitewashed. Daniel Dubois’ upset win over Filip Hrgovic was one of the most significant results of the night, triggering a cascade of frustrations for Hearn. Now, Shalom sees this as the perfect opportunity for Hearn to bounce back.

Potential BOXXER vs. Matchroom Matchups

Shalom suggested a list of potential fights, providing an exciting glimpse of what could be one of the biggest promotional battles in boxing history:

Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn
A highly anticipated showdown years in the making, this fight is a guaranteed headliner, bringing together two of the sport’s biggest names with a storied family rivalry.

Dalton Smith vs. Adam Azim
An intriguing battle between two rising British stars, Smith’s technical prowess against Azim’s blistering speed and power could be a show-stealer.

Johnny Fisher vs. Frazer Clarke
A heavyweight clash between two of Britain’s most popular fighters, both known for their knockout power and growing fanbases.

Jai Opetaia vs. Chris Billam-Smith
The cruiserweight division could see fireworks as IBF champion Opetaia faces Billam-Smith, who is fresh off his victory over Lawrence Okolie.

Caroline Dubois vs. Terri Harper
A potential women's fight of the year, as rising star Caroline Dubois takes on two-weight world champion Terri Harper in a battle of youth versus experience.

Viddal Riley vs. Chev Clarke
Cruiserweight prospects collide in what would be a high-octane, hard-hitting affair.

Shalom's Vision for 2025

Shalom emphasized that the timing of such an event is crucial. He believes 2025 is the right moment for this epic clash, stating:
“For me, next year will be the right time. There is a huge amount of fights that can be made, and if we could do it as a Matchroom-BOXXER card, I am ready to go.”

While tensions between Shalom and rival promoters Frank Warren and Eddie Hearn have escalated in recent months, particularly during the Beterbiev-Bivol fight week, Shalom remains undeterred in his pursuit of organizing this grand spectacle. Should both teams agree, the event could not only revive the competitive spirit between these promotional powerhouses but also deliver some of the most exciting matchups in recent memory.

With rumors swirling about a massive bill in February and the potential Eubank-Benn clash in May 2025, boxing fans will be eagerly awaiting official confirmation.

#BoxingShowdown #EubankBenn #BenShalom #EddieHearn #BOXXERVsMatchroom #BoxingRivalry #BoxingNews #MatchroomBoxing #BOXXER #FightNight

The highly anticipated press conference for the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury has been confirmed. The event will begin at 12:00 p.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. in the UK. This will be the official launch of the promotion for their much-awaited fight, which is set to take place on December 21 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

In their first encounter, held on May 18, 2024, at the same venue, Usyk surprised many by defeating Fury via split decision after 12 intense rounds. Usyk, undefeated with a record of 22 wins and 0 losses, currently holds the heavyweight titles from The Ring, the World Boxing Council (WBC), the World Boxing Organization (WBO), and the World Boxing Association (WBA Super).

The press conference is scheduled for Wednesday, October 23. The event will begin at 12:00 p.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. in the UK.

Fury, on the other hand, will be looking to redeem himself after that loss and add another victory to his record, which currently stands at 34 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. This rematch is crucial for Fury, as a victory could bring him closer to a highly anticipated bout against Anthony Joshua, which could take place in 2025. However, Usyk, fully aware of his standing as one of the best heavyweights in the world, is determined to keep his undefeated streak intact.

In addition to the main event, the Usyk vs Fury 2 card will feature several exciting matchups. One of the most anticipated is the heavyweight contest between rising star Moses Itauma and experienced fighter Demsey McKean. There will also be a thrilling British clash between Johnny Fisher and Dave Allen, both vying for prominence in the heavyweight division.

In the light middleweight category, former WBA world champion Israil Madrimov will take on Serhii Bohachuk. Additionally, Dennis McCann, the current European super bantamweight champion, will defend his title against mandatory challenger Peter McGrail.

Finally, Isaac Lowe will kick off the event with a featherweight bout against Scotland’s Lee McGregor, who comes in strong after winning his last two fights by knockout.Usyk vs Fury 2 – Card:

Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury: For Usyk’s WBA Super, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles.

Serhii Bohachuk vs Israil Madrimov: Light middleweight bout.Adam Azim wants world title fight next

Moses Itauma vs Demsey McKean: Heavyweight bout.

Johnny Fisher vs Dave Allen: Heavyweight bout.

Dennis McCann vs Peter McGrail: For the European super bantamweight title.

Isaac Lowe vs Lee McGregor: Featherweight bout.🗣️ Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will meet at a launch press conference (5 pm UK/12 pm ET) on Wednesday, October 23 to promote their Dec 21 bout in Riyadh for the unified WBA/WBC/WBO Heavyweight title. pic.twitter.com/PnYAbtTrre

— EverythingBoxing (@EverythingBoxi2) October 22, 2024

Adam Azim has made his ambition clear to fight for a world title in his next bout. During a recent interview with Sky Sports Boxing, Azim and his promoter, Barry McGuigan,

McGuigan praised Azim’s performance in his latest fight, mentioning in a podcast that the boxer delivered an impressive showing. “On the Toe2Toe podcast, which will be available for download later today, we mentioned that we were very happy that Adam got the rounds in,” McGuigan stated. Although he acknowledged that Azim could have finished the fight in the fifth round, he highlighted the value of the extra rounds.

“He knows he could have stepped it up a bit earlier and finished the fight in the fifth round, but those extra rounds were invaluable,” he added.

Azim’s growth over the past year was also a key point in the interview. According to McGuigan, the work done with coach Shane McGuigan has been crucial in developing Azim’s aggression, his ability to press forward and close the distance, and his counter-punching skills. “Traditionally, he’s a technical boxer with great footwork and speed, but he hits extremely hard, especially with that left hook, though his right hand is a bomb too,” McGuigan explained.During the interview, Adam Azim was asked about his immediate plans, and he responded clearly: he wants to fight for the IBO world title.

“There’s a vacant IBO world title, and I want to target that next. Whoever they put in front of me, I’ll take it,” Azim declared.

It’s important to note that the IBO world title is not recognized as a major world title and doesn’t hold as much significance as some of the other top titles. However, as of 2023, the IBO title has been unified with three of the four major governing bodies in boxing — the WBA, IBF, and WBO — across several weight divisions.

The young boxer emphasized his goal of continuing to develop and taking on more significant opponents, mentioning that fights against rivals like Harlem Eubank and Dalton Smith are on the horizon but should happen at the right time.

Adam Azim, who solidified his place as a world contender after his victory over Ohara Davies, expressed his willingness to take on big fights. “If I’m offered a big fight, I’ll take it with both hands,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of timing and making sure everything is in place, including the possibility of a Pay-Per-View event.

For his part, Barry McGuigan stressed the importance of not rushing decisions and making sure his fighter is fully prepared to face elite competition. “It’s easy to make the mistake of rushing in and getting your fighter beaten when he’s not ready,” McGuigan warned.Bill Haney reveals what he believes his son is owed by Ryan Garcia after De La Hoya taunt

Although he acknowledged that Adam Azim has the ability to defeat boxers like Liam Paro, José Valenzuela, or Alberto Puello, he emphasized that the current focus is on allowing him to continue developing gradually.

“I’m not saying Adam isn’t ready because he could beat guys like Liam Paro, José Valenzuela, or Alberto Puello right now, but we still think he’s developing. It’s better to take those fights when it’s the natural next step,” McGuigan said.

McGuigan also commented on the need to keep Azim active, especially after he lost ten months of training due to an ankle injury.

“Harlem Eubank and Dalton Smith are both possible future fights, no question, but we want to get him out again before Christmas. He damaged his ankle and was out for 10 months, which is time we can’t get back. We need to keep him busy. I had 12 fights in my first year as a pro. So we want him to be busy, because activity especially when you’re young is absolutely essential. Adam’s 22, so he’s got all the time in the world, but in British boxing, we want it now, not tomorrow,” the promoter concluded.

With a world title in sight and the support of an experienced team, Adam Azim seems to be on the right path to becoming one of the major figures in international boxing.

Michael Buffer, the iconic voice of boxing, surprised the world with an unexpected invitation for Samantha Irvin after she announced her departure from WWE. Buffer expressed his desire for the talented announcer to explore a career in boxing following her exit from World Wrestling Entertainment.

Samantha Irvin announced her departure from WWE, which sparked a wave of reactions on social media. Although her decision was partly fueled by rumors of pregnancy with former WWE superstar Ricochet, Irvin’s focus seems to lie beyond that.Michael Buffer, who has been a key figure in the presentation of boxing matches worldwide, joined the conversation after Irvin’s announcement.

On his official X account, Buffer

“NO!💔 My wife and I are so sorry to hear this as I’m sure millions of other @WWE fans are. Samantha is brilliant & super professional as announcer + her musical talent as a singer & flautist are amazing! All the best to her moving forward w/her career & perhaps we’ll see her in future events including boxing & MMA!” Michael Buffer wrote on X.

These words suggest that the legendary announcer hopes Irvin will consider transitioning into the world of boxing.

Irvin’s farewell message,

“WWE Universe, my time has come to an end as your Monday Night ‘Raw’ ring announcer,” Irvin wrote. “I love you all tremendously and this does not mark the end of my art, I have a lifetime more to

She thanked both past and present WWE superstars for their dedication and commitment to entertaining fans. Irvin acknowledged the physical and emotional effort required to be part of the sports entertainment industry.

Samantha Irvin also expressed gratitude to several backstage members of WWE. She highlighted Brian “Road Dogg” James, Scott Armstrong, Gabe Sapolsky, and George Carroll Jr. for giving her the opportunity to showcase her talent. Additionally, she thanked WWE Director HHH and Mark Henry, who gave her a big break in the company. Irvin assured them that she always tried to make them proud with her performance.Bill Haney reveals what he believes his son is owed by Ryan Garcia after De La Hoya taunt

It’s worth noting that Irvin made it clear her departure from WWE does not mark the end of her career. The talented announcer left the door open for new professional opportunities. Furthermore, Michael Buffer’s invitation for Samantha Irvin to join the world of boxing has piqued curiosity among fans of both sports. Buffer’s public recognition of Irvin’s skills as an announcer and her potential in a new arena could open an unexpected door for the former Monday Night Raw host.

With this possibility in the air, Irvin’s transition into boxing could be one of the most exciting surprises in the world of sports entertainment in the coming months.NO!💔 My wife and I are so sorry to hear this as I’m sure millions of other @WWE fans are. Samantha is brilliant & super professional as announcer+her musical talent as a singer & flautist are amazing! All the best to her moving forward w/her career & perhaps we’ll see her in… https://t.co/ZzUD9XfjIj

— Michael Buffer (@Michael_Buffer) October 21, 2024

pic.twitter.com/RpkLIYkpNN

— Samantha Irvin (@SamanthaTheBomb) October 21, 2024

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, former boxer and now trainer George Groves introduced a new prospect. Groves, who rose to fame in the boxing world, believes this young talent will be the “future of boxing.”

George Groves, who fought in the 75-kilogram division as an amateur, has a remarkable track record. He won the Senior ABA Championship in 2006 and 2007, triumphing in several international arenas. During his amateur career, Groves accumulated 66 wins in 76 fights, with 40 of those victories coming by stoppage. One of his most notable achievements was his victory over James DeGale, who later went on to become an Olympic and world champion.

Groves currently works as a trainer at the Dale Youth Academy. This gym is well-known in the boxing community for having trained figures such as Groves himself, Olympic gold medalist James DeGale, and heavyweight Daniel Dubois.Now, George Groves has taken on the role of trainer for Lucas Roehrig, a young boxing prospect aiming to make a name for himself in the cruiserweight division.

During the interview, Groves expressed his excitement about Roehrig’s potential. According to Groves, the young boxer has shown phenomenal talent and has significantly improved over the past few years as an amateur. The trainer is fully confident that now is the time for Roehrig to shine as a professional and climb to the top of the boxing world.

Roehrig, 21, is preparing for his new stage as a professional. The boxer debuted on November 27, 2011, against Isaac Okoh, and currently holds a record of 13 wins, 4 losses, and 5 knockouts. This talented fighter has gained experience facing tough opponents and has also sparred with IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia.

With George Groves’ support, Lucas Roehrig seems to have a bright future ahead. As he continues his career at the Dale Youth Academy, both Groves and boxing fans will be eager to see how the young boxer progresses on the global professional boxing stage.Meet the new talent George Groves is looking to take to the top 🤝 pic.twitter.com/dFAIrBbVNl

— Sky Sports Boxing (@SkySportsBoxing) October 22, 2024Amateur sensation to challenge for WBA world title in fourth professional bout

https://t.co/zKj1jili1s

— Lucas Roehrig (@LucasRoehrig) October 22, 2024

Evander Holyfield, a legendary four-time heavyweight world champion, has faced some of boxing’s biggest names, including Larry Holmes, Lennox Lewis, and Mike Tyson. Yet, according to Holyfield, the hardest punch he ever endured didn’t come from any of them—it came from George Foreman.

In a recent interview with ESNEWS, Holyfield revealed that during his 1991 fight against Foreman, he felt like Foreman had knocked out all his teeth with a single punch. Despite winning the fight by unanimous decision, Holyfield admitted that Foreman’s power left a lasting impression.

“The guy that hit me the hardest was George Foreman. He hit me one time in the eleventh round, and I came back to the corner and I said, ‘Did he knock all my teeth out?’” Holyfield shared.

The 1991 bout occurred during the second phase of Foreman’s career, as he sought to become the oldest world champion in boxing history. Though Foreman lost the fight to Holyfield, he achieved his goal three years later, winning the heavyweight title at 45. Holyfield, who managed to remain undefeated against Foreman, continued his legendary career with a series of memorable fights, including a loss to Riddick Bowe in 1992 and later avenging it.

Holyfield’s journey through boxing includes iconic victories like his 1996 win over Mike Tyson, regaining the WBA title. Their infamous rematch in 1997 ended with Tyson being disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear, cementing their rivalry in boxing history.

Though Holyfield retired in 2011, he briefly returned to the ring in 2021 for an exhibition match against MMA fighter Vitor Belfort, where he was knocked out in the first round. Now 62, Holyfield remains a beloved figure in the sport, having been the only undisputed world champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.

Holyfield’s potential return to the ring had also been rumored, with reports suggesting a possible matchup against YouTube star KSI. However, those plans were ultimately scrapped, and Holyfield has since fully stepped away from boxing.

Meanwhile, his old rival Mike Tyson has been generating buzz with his own return to the spotlight, as he gears up for a controversial fight against YouTube star Jake Paul, scheduled for November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Texas.

#EvanderHolyfield #GeorgeForeman #HardestPunch #BoxingLegends #HeavyweightChampion #MikeTyson #BoxingHistory #BoxingComebacks #FightNight #RiddickBowe #JakePaul #KSI

Fighters crossing over from the world of MMA into professional boxing has become the norm in recent years, with notable names such as Conor McGregor and Francis Ngannou encouraging an influx at the lower echelons of the sport. However, one undefeated mixed martial artist now faces a lifetime ban from boxing after a horrific debut.

Idris ‘Aggressor’ Abdurashidov boasts a record of 3-0 in Muay Thai and 4-0 as an MMA fighter, having scored a second-round stoppage win over Kazakbai Tilenov on his debut with popular MMA franchise ONE Championship last month.

This month, the Russian decided to try his hand at boxing and stepped through the ropes to take on Bagher Faraji (2-0) at the Ali Boxing Club in Phuket, Thailand.

After dominating all four rounds, Iran’s Faraji was well on his way to handing Abdurashidov a first professional defeat in combat sports until the debutant threw a brutal head kick in the final round of the contest, sending Faraji crashing headfirst into the canvas.

Instantaneously, a decision was made, and Abdurashidov has been banned from boxing professionally. There have also been calls for the ‘Aggressor’ to be banned from ONE Championship as well.

Yet, amid all the speculation, Abdurashidov did not seem remorseful in an Instagram post after the incident, labeling the kick as a “machine gun.” He wrote, “So he [I] debuted in professional boxing, and disqualification for life. This kick with the leg I threw away with a machine gun.”

Underneath the post, fans expressed their outrage at Abdurashidov’s lack of regret, with one user stating that the moment was “classless.”

“You were getting embarrassed, and you had to cheat. Classless, and I’m glad you’re banned for life. 0-1 boxing.”

“The leg kick and running away from the ring. If it had continued for another thirty seconds, you would have been knocked out.”

It remains to be seen whether Abdurashidov will be reprimanded by ONE Championship, although the viral nature of the incident will likely require a response from the respected combat sports promotion.

#IdrisAbdurashidov #BoxingDebut #MMAtoBoxing #CombatSports #BoxingNews #Disqualification #ONEChampionship #Controversy #HeadKick #SportsDrama

The Cuban invasion into professional boxing has been long anticipated, and now the proud boxing nation is poised for a landmark contest as one of their most accomplished amateurs seeks to achieve world honors in just his fourth professional bout.

Julio Cesar La Cruz, an Olympic gold medalist in both the light-heavyweight division at Rio 2016 and the heavyweight division at Tokyo 2020, has established himself as one of Cuba’s most impressive amateur talents, boasting an incredible five world championships while dominating the light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions for almost 15 years.

In May 2022, ‘La Sombra’ made his professional debut in Mexico, scoring a knockout win over Deivis Casseres. He followed that performance with a second stoppage victory against Juan Rodolfo Juarez three months later. However, the now 35-year-old has fought only once since, banking ten rounds against Austine Nnamdi in a clash in Guinea in December 2023. That win crowned La Cruz as the WBA Gold bridgerweight champion.

Following a meeting with the IBA, the WBA has announced that La Cruz will challenge Muslim Gadzhimagomedov for the WBA bridgerweight title, as well as the less recognized IBA bridgerweight strap. The showdown is set to take place in Dubai this December, acting as a launchpad for regular fights between contenders on the IBA circuit and WBA-ranked world title hopefuls, as detailed on the WBA website.

“Another point to be discussed was the development of the IBA Champion’s Night, whose events have had the support of the WBA and include bouts for both regional and world titles of the pioneer organization. Fighters such as Albert Ramirez, Albert Batyrgaziev, and Muslim Gadzhimagomedov have had the opportunity to fight and win WBA championships in this great project.

“In addition, this occasion marks a step forward towards achieving a unified WBA-IBA fight in December, featuring Gadzhimagomedov facing Julio La Cruz in the ring in Dubai during the annual IBA congress. This congress will be significant as it aims to relaunch a league project similar to the old World Series of Boxing (WSB), offering opportunities for fighters from the IBA circuit to compete against boxers from the WBA rankings.”

As a result, Julio Cesar La Cruz will become the first Cuban boxer to fight in a world title contest while representing the CBF (Cuban Boxing Federation), and he will do so on his fourth different continent in as many professional outings.

#JulioCesarLaCruz #CubanBoxing #WorldTitleFight #BoxingHistory #OlympicChampion #Bridgerweight #WBA #IBA #BoxingNews #CombatSports

Dmitry Bivol made waves in boxing when he protested the outcome of his recent loss to Artur Beterbiev, likely aiming to secure a rematch rather than alter the result itself. Following suit, another challenger is now seeking to overturn a judges' decision after a contentious title fight.

William Scull, who was named the IBF super-middleweight mandatory challenger earlier this year, found himself in a difficult position when Canelo Alvarez vacated his IBF belt in pursuit of more prominent opponents. This left Scull to face Vladimir Shishkin for the vacant title in the 168-pound division.

In a matchup held in Falkensee, Germany, Scull edged out Shishkin via a unanimous decision (116-113, 116-112, 115-113) in a bout that many critics deemed hard to score due to its low output. However, the Cuban fighter believes he convincingly earned the win and is now lodging an appeal with the IBF.

Dmitry Salita, Shishkin’s promoter, voiced concerns about the officiating by German referee Oliver Brien, particularly regarding an incident in the twelfth round where Scull spat out his gumshield, seemingly to buy time after being buzzed. “The referee didn’t penalize or warn William Scull for hitting behind the head, hitting after the bell, holding – things like that,” Salita stated to Boxing Scene. “The right man has to win. Justice has to happen inside the ring.”

The fight itself was widely criticized, with Shishkin landing only 14.8% of his punches (110-of-746), while Scull managed a more effective 22.3% (80-of-359), albeit by throwing fewer punches overall. The total number of landed punches fell below 200 for the contest, prompting discussions about the fight's quality.

If the immediate rematch that Shishkin and Salita are calling for occurs, it may struggle to generate interest given the lackluster performance from both fighters. The boxing community will be watching closely as the IBF reviews the appeal, which could significantly impact the futures of Scull and Shishkin.

#WilliamScull #VladimirShishkin #IBF #CaneloAlvarez #BoxingNews #TitleFight #DmitryBivol #BoxingAppeal #FightRecap #CombatSports

awrence Okolie, who represented Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics, made a significant impact in professional boxing after a bittersweet Olympic run, where he fell to bronze medallist Erislandy Savon in the Round of 16. Motivated by that experience, Okolie turned professional in 2017 and quickly established himself in the cruiserweight division.

In his debut year, ‘The Sauce’ recorded seven wins, six by knockout, showcasing his power early on. Notable victories against fighters like Isaac Chamberlain and Luke Watkins propelled him to a shot at Matty Askin’s British title, which he claimed via unanimous decision on the Joshua-Povetkin undercard in September 2018.

Following this success, Okolie embarked on a remarkable streak, delivering seven consecutive knockout wins. His most notable triumph came against two-time world champion Krzysztof Glowacki, securing the vacant WBO cruiserweight world title. He defended the title against Dilan Prasovic, and although Michal Cieslak managed to go the distance, Okolie was riding high.

However, a lackluster performance against New Zealand’s David Light in March marked the beginning of a downturn. The Hackney-born fighter faced a shocking majority-decision defeat against Chris Billam-Smith, which drew widespread criticism. Fans lamented the shift in Okolie’s fighting style, as he had resorted to excessive clinching, abandoning the fan-friendly approach that characterized his earlier success.

The narrative began to change when Okolie faced Lukasz Rozanski for the WBC bridgerweight title in May. Displaying a more aggressive, front-footed approach, he scored a knockout victory in the first round—his first stoppage since September 2021 and a significant return to form.

With momentum on his side, the confident 31-year-old is now calling for a showdown with Oleksandr Usyk, eyeing a move to heavyweight. Though Usyk is currently occupied with a rematch against Tyson Fury, the WBC has announced Okolie’s entry into the heavyweight rankings at #5, hinting that a matchup with the Ukrainian could materialize sooner than anticipated.

Looking ahead, Okolie is set to make his heavyweight debut in early 2025, with potential opponents like Fabio Wardley being discussed. As for the WBC bridgerweight title, Okolie has vacated the strap, allowing Kevin Lerena to be upgraded to full world champion.

#LawrenceOkolie #Boxing #WBC #Heavyweight #Cruiserweight #OleksandrUsyk #KevinLerena #BoxingNews #OlympicBoxing #FightRecap

In a recent interview with Fight Hub TV, Conor Benn issued a direct challenge to undefeated IBF welterweight champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis, stating that he is ready to face him. Similarly, he also mentioned Mario Barrios and Eimantas Stanionis as potential opponents, asserting that he fears no one in the 147-pound division.

However, many critics doubt his seriousness. Benn has been accused of having a padded record, facing inferior opponents throughout his career. His most notable victory was against a 37-year-old Chris Algieri in 2021, which has drawn criticism regarding his true level.

“Come on, give me Ennis, no problem. Give me Barrios. Give me Stanionis. I don’t shy away from nobody,” Benn stated in an interview with Fight Hub TV. While his words sound firm, many doubt that Benn is ready to face an opponent of Jaron Ennis’ caliber.

Despite his desire to face Ennis, his promoter Eddie Hearn will likely dismiss the possibility of this fight, as he is saving Benn for a more commercially appealing bout for the British audience against Chris Eubank Jr., planned for Riyadh.

It is worth mentioning that Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. had a tense altercation in Saudi Arabia. This occurred before the weigh-in for Eubank Jr.’s fight against Kamil Szeremeta on the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol undercard. In his fight against Szeremeta, Eubank Jr. secured a victory in the 7th round.

For now, it remains to be seen what Conor Benn’s next move will be. Although a fight between Benn and Eubank Jr. is not yet confirmed, it is highly likely.

The highly anticipated return of Harlem Eubank finally has a new date and venue. The bout of the prominent British boxer will take place on Friday, November 22, at the Walker Dome in Newcastle, slightly later than originally planned. Initially, Eubank was set to face former French welterweight champion Nurali Erdogan on October 25 in Bolton. However, the event has been rescheduled to offer fans a more complete experience.

The clash between Eubank and Erdogan will be part of the “Back to Business” card, organized by Wasserman Boxing in partnership with Ladbrokes and Infinitum. This bout represents a crucial opportunity for Eubank, who is looking to solidify his name on the global boxing stage. With an undefeated record of 19-0 (8 KOs), the 30-year-old fighter has expressed his desire to face high-level opponents, and a victory over Erdogan could open the door to a major fight in his hometown of Brighton early next year.

Nurali Erdogan, who has never been stopped in his career, presents a formidable challenge for Eubank. Erdogan is known for his durability and experience in the ring, but Harlem Eubank is confident that a convincing win over the Frenchman will not only strengthen his reputation but also position him for even greater challenges in 2025. Eubank has already shown interest in facing Conor Benn, although Benn seems more focused on a potential matchup with Chris Eubank Jr. next year.

Harlem Eubank’s success in the ring has captured public attention. In his last fight, he stopped Timo Schwarzkopf in front of a televised audience of over two million viewers. Now, the British boxer aims to replicate that success in Newcastle by defeating Erdogan and securing his homecoming for another big night of boxing in Brighton.

The Newcastle card will also feature several exciting matchups. Junior middleweight prospect Dan Toward, 4-0, will fight in front of his hometown fans, while Ben Marksby will face Levi Kinsiona in a 10-round bout at 140 pounds. Additionally, unbeaten middleweight Niall Brown, 12-0 (4 KOs), and junior lightweight Codie Smith, 3-0-1, will also be in action.Jared Anderson’s promoter explains why Martin Bakole defeat was not surprising

Another notable name of the night will be Germany’s Sophie Alisch, who will return to the ring in the featherweight division after 18 months of inactivity. Local talents such as Joe Laws and Lee Rogers are also scheduled to fight, along with promising welterweight Robert Lloyd-Taylor Jr, who enters the event with a record of 9 wins, 0 losses, and 1 KO.New date, same mission 🥊 pic.twitter.com/Ma27oURtKh

— Harlem Eubank🥋 (@HarlemEubank) October 21, 2024

British boxer Aqib Fiaz has been “cleared of any wrongdoing” following an investigation by the British Board of Boxing Control (BBBofC). The investigation stemmed from the cancellation of his fight against Kane Baker, scheduled for June 22 in Birmingham. The bout was called off the same day due to “unforeseen circumstances” related to suspicious betting activity.

In a statement issued by Fiaz, the boxer expressed relief at being exonerated. He emphasized that he had always maintained his innocence and had no knowledge or involvement in the betting allegations. Fiaz thanked his team and Matchroom Boxing for their support throughout the process.

“After a lengthy investigation by the British Board of Control into allegations following my cancelled fight in June, I am pleased that the Board have considered all documentation and evidence supplied and reached the decision that no further action is required and have cleared me of any wrongdoing,” Fiaz stated.

“I always maintained that I had no involvement or knowledge of any of the allegations surrounding that fight, and the evidence I and others provided to the Board demonstrated exactly that.”

“I am grateful to Matchroom, my manager, trainers, and sponsors for their full support during this process, and I cannot wait to get back in the ring.”

However, Kane Baker, Fiaz’s opponent in the cancelled fight, has been more vocal in his accusations. In a post on his official Instagram account, Baker claimed that both Aqib and his brother attempted to bribe him before the fight, asking him to take a dive after being hit with a body shot in the first three rounds. “They BOTH asked me to take a dive. Specifically a body shot in rounds 1-3. They tried to bribe me and mug me off for being the away fighter,” Baker wrote.

Baker also alleged that Fiaz’s team prolonged the situation, preventing him from accepting other fights or resolving the issue quickly. He criticized the lack of a public response from Aqib Fiaz and his team, noting that Asam Fiaz, Aqib’s brother, avoided attending key Board meetings. “Team Fiaz stays guilty and quiet,” Baker stated.

The away fighter expressed his frustration at waiting 16 weeks without any payment after the cancellation of the bout, emphasizing that the case had not been treated with the seriousness it deserved. Despite having his boxing license reinstated, Baker insisted that the truth about the case remains to be revealed. “Well, if I’ve got my license and you’ve got yours, let’s get the fight on and resolve this in the ring,” Baker challenged Fiaz.

Matchroom and Eddie Hearn’s Role

Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing, addressed the fight’s cancellation through the company’s official YouTube channel. Hearn revealed that betting suspicions came to his attention shortly before the fight. “I was made aware of some betting irregularities on that fight,” he explained.

“I was given some information, I followed it up myself and with my team, the Gambling Commission, and the British Boxing Board of Control. Having spoken to a number of people, I decided to pull the fight pending a further investigation,” Hearn said.

Hearn indicated that the decision to cancel the fight was not taken lightly but was necessary to protect the integrity of the sport. “In 15 years of promoting boxing, I’ve never experienced that type of situation,” he added.

The bout between Fiaz and Baker was set for the DAZN undercard, headlined by Tyler Denny and Felix Cash. However, the last-minute cancellation shook fans and left a bitter taste at the event.

With the investigation now resolved, Aqib Fiaz looks forward to returning to the ring without the burden of the allegations. The boxer has reiterated his focus on his career and his desire to move past this chapter. Meanwhile, Kane Baker maintains his stance and challenges Fiaz to face him in the ring to settle the matter once and for all.

#AqibFiaz #KaneBaker #BBBofC #BoxingNews #FightCancellation #MatchroomBoxing

Lennox Lewis, one of the most prominent legends of heavyweight boxing, has hinted at the possibility of returning to the ring, depending on the performance of his former rival Mike Tyson in his upcoming fight against Jake Paul. In a statement made to TMZ, Lewis expressed that he would be open to a rematch with Tyson if he emerges victorious in their scheduled bout on November 15.

The matchup between Tyson and Paul will mark the first live combat sports event broadcast on Netflix and is set to take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Although Jake Paul is primarily known for his career as a content creator on YouTube, he has made a name for himself in the boxing world. However, facing the 58-year-old Tyson represents a completely new challenge for him.

Lewis, 59, refrained from confirming an immediate fight against Tyson. “Let’s see how he does in this fight, and then I’ll tell you afterward,” he commented, displaying caution in his decision. The pair last faced off in 2002 in a historic bout that ended with a knockout victory for Lewis in the eighth round, following a heated altercation at a press conference that drew significant media attention.

Both boxers earned a purse of $17.5 million for that iconic clash. Lewis also noted that Tyson has a chance of defeating Paul, despite the 31-year age difference between the two fighters. “I haven’t seen him lately to know if he can take it, but I’ve seen him without a shirt, and he looks muscular. Of course he can take it; you know, if he’s trained enough or in good shape, he should be able to handle it,” Lewis remarked, expressing confidence in Tyson’s physical endurance.

The controversial matchup between Tyson and Paul has generated significant excitement and a variety of opinions. The potential for a rematch between Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis adds another layer of intrigue to the boxing landscape. If Tyson manages to defeat Paul, fans could be treated to a legendary showdown once more, even if it were just an exhibition match.

#LennoxLewis #MikeTyson #JakePaul #Boxing #LegendaryFights #CombatSports

The highly anticipated fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul is set to take place on November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions have announced an exciting undercard to complement this main event.

The co-main event will feature a rematch between Katie Taylor (23-1, 6 KOs) and Amanda Serrano (47-2-1, 31 KOs). In their first bout in April 2022, Taylor edged out Serrano by split decision in a match recognized as the Fight of the Year. Taylor will defend her super lightweight titles in this highly anticipated rematch.

Mario Barrios (29-2, 18 KOs) will defend his WBC welterweight title against Abel Ramos (28-6-2, 22 KOs), who enters the fight as a heavy underdog after losing three of his last five bouts.

In the lightweight division, Lucas Bahdi (17-0, 15 KOs) will face Corey Marksman (10-0-1, 7 KOs), with both fighters undefeated. Bahdi is coming off a knockout victory over Ashton Sylve, while Marksman won by decision against Tony Aguilar.

Featherweight prospect Bruce Carrington (13-0, 8 KOs) is set to fight Australian Dana Coolwell (13-2, 8 KOs). Carrington was personally requested by Mike Tyson for this bout, as they both hail from Brownsville.

Additionally, Brazilian influencer Whindersson Nunes will make his professional debut against Neeraj Goyat (18-4-2, 8 KOs) in a six-round contest. Nunes, known for his massive social media presence with over 58 million followers on Instagram, adds an intriguing dimension to the card.

On the preliminary card, Shadasia Green (14-1, 11 KOs) will take on Canadian Melinda Watpool (7-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBO super middleweight title.

This event promises to be a historic spectacle, showcasing a blend of established boxing stars and emerging figures from both the sport and social media. Despite the mixed opinions surrounding it, the controversial showdown between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul remains the main attraction.

Main Card:

• Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson (Main Event)
• Amanda Serrano vs. Katie Taylor 2 – Undisputed Super Lightweight Championship (Co-Main Event)
• Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos – WBC Welterweight Championship
• Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes

Preliminary Card:

• Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool – WBO Super Middleweight Championship
• Lucas Bahdi vs. Corey Marksman
• Bruce Carrington vs. Dana Coolwell

#MikeTyson #JakePaul #BoxingEvent #FightNight #KatieTaylor #AmandaSerrano #WBCChampionship #Undercard #SocialMediaInfluencer #HistoricFight

Renowned boxer and current WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez has ignited controversy regarding his relationship with Top Rank, the promotional company that has guided his career. According to sources close to ESPN, Lopez sent a legal letter to the promoter on Thursday, asserting that his promotional agreement is invalid and that he should be regarded as a free agent.

Lopez, 27, boasts a record of 21 wins and 13 knockouts and signed a contract extension with Top Rank prior to his bout against Sandor Martin in December 2022. This fight, which resulted in a Lopez victory, is at the center of the contractual dispute. Reports indicate that the contract stipulated the extension would only be effective if Lopez defeated José Pedraza. However, after Pedraza was replaced by Martin due to injury, Lopez’s team began to challenge the validity of the extension.

Top Rank maintains that the amendment is still valid despite the change in opponent. Sources close to the promoter claim that Lopez accepted in writing that the modification remained in effect. While Top Rank has refrained from making an official comment on the situation, Lopez has not responded to media inquiries.

Additionally, Top Rank asserts that the promotional agreement with Lopez includes multiple extensions activated independently of the mentioned amendment. One such provision states that if Lopez won another title, his contract would automatically extend, which occurred after his victory over Josh Taylor in June 2023.

Lopez's Position and Retirement

Following his win against Taylor, Lopez shocked the boxing community by announcing a temporary retirement, a decision his legal team argues should nullify any contractual extensions. However, his retirement has not been officially recognized by Top Rank, which continues to extend the contract due to Lopez’s inactivity.

Lopez was slated to face former champion José Ramírez in December 2023 in New York, but no fight has been confirmed to date. Top Rank views Lopez’s inactivity as another factor that could prolong his contract, alongside his title victory and temporary retirement.

Top Rank president Bob Arum has expressed frustration with Lopez on multiple occasions. In a recent statement, Arum remarked, “Teofimo sometimes acts like he has a screw loose. I like the kid, but I can’t figure him out, and he makes no logical sense.” He claimed that Lopez signed a contract extension both before and after the fight against Martin, suggesting that Lopez may be presenting his legal team with the wrong contract, causing unnecessary confusion.

“Dealing with Teofimo is like dealing with Alice in Wonderland,” Arum added, alluding to the unpredictable behavior Lopez has exhibited in recent months. Despite the ongoing tensions, both parties are working toward resolving the legal conflict, although no agreement or return date for Lopez to the ring has been confirmed.

Teofimo Lopez rose to fame after defeating the legendary Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2020 and has remained a prominent figure in both the lightweight and junior welterweight divisions. However, the uncertainty surrounding his future in boxing persists, with his contractual situation with Top Rank still unresolved. Lopez was offered a fight on September 27 in New York but declined the date, further complicating his situation with the promoter.

#TeofimoLopez #TopRank #BoxingNews #ContractDispute #WBOChampion #BobArum #BoxingCareer #VasiliyLomachenko #JuniorWelterweight

Naoya Inoue, the undisputed super bantamweight champion, has sparked excitement among boxing fans by discussing his upcoming fight prospects. At an event in Tokyo on October 21, Inoue, known as “The Monster,” acknowledged a young boxer’s desire to face him.

“There’s a young fighter who wants to be number 1 in the Pound-for-Pound rankings. We just have to wait for him to rise,” Inoue stated, alluding to Junto Nakatani, the current WBC bantamweight champion, hinting at a potential future bout between them.

“If boxing fans are asking for it so much, I think I can mention it too,” he added, recognizing the buzz surrounding this matchup.

Inoue has praised Nakatani’s strength, remarking after Nakatani’s fight on October 14, “He’s strong, that’s why I’m interested.” Currently ranked ninth in The Ring’s Pound-for-Pound rankings, Nakatani recently defended his title for the second time. Meanwhile, Inoue holds the second spot in the rankings.

Top Rank CEO Bob Arum expressed interest in organizing the Inoue-Nakatani fight for next year, but Nakatani noted he has other commitments before taking on Inoue. In the meantime, Inoue is set to fight Sam Goodman, the number 1 ranked contender by the WBO and IBF, in December.

Inoue also seemed uncertain about a potential move to the featherweight division, saying, “In 2026? I don’t know yet,” leaving open the possibility of exploring new weight classes in the future. Given Inoue’s current fight schedule, a bout with Nakatani may not materialize until September or late 2025.

#NaoyaInoue #JuntoNakatani #Boxing #PoundForPound #FightNight #WBC #SuperBantamweight #FutureFights

One year ago, KSI and Tommy Fury headlined a Misfits Boxing card at Manchester Arena in one of the United Kingdom’s most high-profile events of 2023. Now, 12 months later, KSI’s manager has provided an update on a potential rematch between the popular domestic duo.

Tommy Fury entered his showdown with KSI as a man on a mission, hoping to ‘end influencer boxing’ after handing Jake Paul a first career defeat in the bout previous.

Meanwhile, Olajide Olatunji (KSI) hoped to do what Paul couldn’t and put an end to the undefeated streak of the former Love Island star.

After six rounds of frustrating action at the AO Arena, it was Fury who claimed a controversial unanimous-decision victory, winning the six-round affair 57-56 on all three cards, each including a point deduction for Fury who was penalised for punching the back of Olatunji’s head.

Yet, despite success against both Paul and KSI, Tommy Fury has yet to return to the ring since, sidelined by an injured to his right-hand that has required surgery.

Meanwhile, KSI has suffered a hand injury of his own, forcing him to withdraw from a 2-on-1 fight against Anthony Taylor and Slim Albaher that was scheduled to take place in Dublin on August 31st.Terence Crawford comments on why Tim Tszyu lost to Bakhram Murtazaliev

Now, as Tommy Fury prepares for a comeback to the sport during 2025, Mams Taylor told The Sun that he has made a shocking offer for the 25-year-old to join the Misfits roster, before revealing that a rematch is ‘very possible’ for 2025

“I think Tommy would do really well on the Misfits roster. And I know our teams are in touch with their team.

“So watch this space. Let’s see what happens. And as far as KSI and Tommy, I think when the time is right, that rematch definitely should happen. Till this day people are still very divided about that result.”

“[In a year or so?] I think so. I think it is very possible, yeah.”

The latest news regarding Fury’s recovery is unclear and it remains to be seen whether he will jump back in with KSI or opt for a tune-up fight to clear any ring rust from what has been his longest run without a fight since turning professional in 2018.

Paris 2024 gold medallist Imane Khelif captured the attention of the globe during her Olympic campaign earlier this year, ignoring the headlines that speculated her gender to achieve her dream. Now, just as the controversy surrounding Khelif’s name began to die down, the Algerian has announced that she will make the switch to the professional ranks.

Along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting, Khelif was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships after failing her gender eligibility tests conducted by the IBA, who were recently removed as the governing body for the Olympic games, although the legitimacy of those ‘tests’ has come into question since.

Despite competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the 2022 World Championships, both Khelif and Lin were subject to relentless abuse throughout the summer as a consequence of the IBA’s presumed inconclusive and unreliable tests.

Yet, both Khelif and Lin fought through the fire and against the uproar to win their respective gold medals in the welterweight and featherweight categories.

After rumours that Khelif was stripped of her gold medal were confirmed as false, the 25-year-old held a press conference, revealing that she will be turning professional in the near-future and that she has plenty of promotional offers, as per The Sun.

“I would like to hold a press conference today to

“There is a documentary being prepared about my success story and it will be shown on international platforms.Terence Crawford comments on why Tim Tszyu lost to Bakhram Murtazaliev

“I will soon enter the world of professional boxing, I have many offers.

“Currently, I have not made up my mind about where I will enter professional boxing.

“But very soon I will take this step, we as Algerians would like to see our level in the field of professionalism.”

As well as her Paris 2024 gold, Khelif also boasts a silver medal from the 2022 World Championships, as well as numerous other gold medals from various other amateur competitions.

After such a dominant performance throughout Paris 2024, Khelif is likely to prove to be a threat in the professional game and is sure to become one of the most recognised names in the world of women’s boxing.

Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol clashed in Riyadh last weekend—more tactically and mentally than physically—and the boxing world is clamoring for an immediate rematch. However, it seems both fighters may face alternate opponents before they meet again.

Beterbiev edged a controversial split-decision victory in Saudi Arabia, becoming the first undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the four-belt era and the first 175-pounder to hold all recognized world titles since Roy Jones Jr. in 2002. Despite this achievement, many fans believe Bivol did enough to secure the win, leading to widespread anticipation for a rematch.

Recent reports indicate that Turki Al-Alshikh has been discouraged from staging major ‘Riyadh Season’ boxing events outside of Saudi Arabia, disrupting plans for an immediate rematch. Beterbiev’s promoter, Bob Arum, explained to Dan Rafael that the second encounter between the Russian-born rivals would likely take place in around 12 months at the earliest.

“Riyadh Season ends in February, so the earliest date for a rematch would be next October when the next festival begins,” Arum stated.

Given the financial implications of staging a fight outside of Riyadh, Arum suggested that both Beterbiev and Bivol may take interim fights to prepare for their highly anticipated rivalry.

“It may mean that each of these guys fight one more time against other opponents, and then for October of next year, they do the rematch. I think that’s the most likely scenario, and it’s reasonable if they’re amenable to it.”

As for potential opponents, Quebec fan-favorite Beterbiev has been ordered to defend his titles against IBF mandatory challenger Michael Eifert, who upset Jean Pascal in a previous fight. A matchup with Eifert would likely draw well in Canada and allow Beterbiev to showcase his championship status in a relatively low-risk bout.

On the other hand, Bivol may look for a more recognizable opponent, possibly facing Callum Smith or the undefeated Venezuelan Albert Ramirez, who is mentored by Beterbiev.

#Beterbiev #Bivol #Boxing #Rematch #LightHeavyweight #RiyadhSeason #InterimFights #MichaelEifert #CallumSmith #AlbertRamirez