Teofimo Lopez Sr. believes Devin Haney is suing Ryan Garcia to salvage his "destroyed image." Garcia previously defeated Haney in April in New York, scoring three knockdowns, but that majority decision was later overturned to a no contest after Garcia tested positive for the banned substance ostarine.

Haney has filed a lawsuit against Garcia, alleging fraud, battery, and unjust enrichment—five months after being fined $1.1 million and suspended for a year.

“Devin Haney is just trying to play chess, positioning the right pieces to recover from the damage Ryan Garcia did to his image,” said Lopez Sr., the father and trainer of WBO junior-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez Jr., Haney's rival.

Since that fight, the 25-year-old Haney has yet to return to the ring, raising questions about whether he will be the same fighter when he does.

“I don't know if it's true, but Ryan Garcia claimed that if you grabbed a pinch of salt and put it in an Olympic-sized pool, that’s how much substance he had in his body,” Lopez Sr. added. “If that's the case, then you know what I'm saying?”

#HaneyVsGarcia #BoxingDrama #LegalBattle #FightForReputation #BoxingNews #BoxingRivalry #DevinHaney #RyanGarcia 

Tyson Fury is promising to bring a different demeanor to his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk on December 21. 

The former WBC heavyweight champion (34-1-1, 24 KOs) suffered a knockdown and a split-decision loss to Usyk in May, when the Ukrainian outlanded him 170 to 157 over 12 rounds by overcoming a serious size disadvantage with precision, power and speed over the second half of the fight. 

Although the blemish will forever exist on Fury’s record, the “Gypsy King” still doesn’t believe it belongs on his resume. 

“I didn’t think he beat me last time, and I’m damn sure not going to let him beat me this time,” Fury told IFL. “I’ve got to knock Usyk out, and I’ll be training for a good knockout. I’ll get it like I did [in the second fight versus Deontay Wilder in 2020]. And that's what I will do. I said I was going to knock [Wilder] out, and I did. 

“I’m going to knock this c*** out this time, and I will. Believe it first. See it first in your mind, and execute it out there. I can't take anything away from the ugly bastard Usyk. I can't say that I didn't prepare or do any training. I did what I had to do. He's got the decision over me, and we got to run it back. 

“It makes sense to do the rematch and get my victory back. I’ve gotten past the point of really caring. It probably took that decision to wake me up and give me the type of aggression back where I want to smash someone in.”

With Fury’s loss to Usyk, the long-planned all-British battle against Anthony Joshua suffered another serious setback. Joshua then seriously compounded matters again on September 21 by losing via fifth-round knockout to Daniel Dubois, in what represented the fourth loss of his career. 

Fury, who fights Usyk again in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, insisted that he’s not concerned about the lucrative clash against Joshua while Usyk awaits. 

“I have somebody [in Usyk] who has a win over me, who broke me and took my virginity, and stole it back to wherever he lives,” he said. “That's what I am concerned about. I'm not concerned about [Joshua] and what he is doing. I've got a man holding my balls, let's just say, for the moment.” 

#TysonFury #Boxing #OleksandrUsyk #knockout #rematch #boxingnews

It’s easy to overlook that Oleksandr Usyk is the reigning world heavyweight champion. While names like Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and more recently Daniel Dubois often dominate media coverage, Usyk remains the man to beat in the division.

One of Usyk’s toughest challenges since moving to heavyweight came against Daniel Dubois in August last year. During that fight, Dubois landed a shot that the referee ruled as low, granting Usyk time to recover. Many observers believed the punch was legitimate and argued that Usyk should have received a ten-count to see if he could continue. Instead, he took his time and came back strong, winning by knockout in the ninth round.

Since then, Dubois has made headlines by knocking out Anthony Joshua, reestablishing his name in the heavyweight title picture. The question now arises: will Daniel Dubois face Oleksandr Usyk again?

Adding fuel to this rivalry, Dubois’ trainer, Don Charles, has launched a scathing attack on Usyk, labeling him a cheat for his reaction to the punch during their last bout. In an interview with talkSPORT, Charles expressed his feelings bluntly, stating, “Everything was stacked against us. This is actually personal. Mr. Usyk is fake. He’s an exceptional boxer, a masterful talent, but he’s also a liar and a cheat. He claims to be a God-fearing man, but if you believe in the same God that I do, one of the ten commandments is you cannot cheat. If you worship God, then you should not act the way he did when Daniel dropped him—he deserves an Oscar for that performance.”

These strong words from Charles indicate his belief that Usyk exaggerated the impact of the punch, potentially costing Dubois the win. Regardless of opinions on the comments, they are sure to escalate tensions between the two as they look toward a possible rematch.

#UsykVsDubois #HeavyweightChampion #BoxingRivalry #FightNight #BoxingDrama #BoxingNews #HeavyweightBoxing #Usyk #Dubois

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson is shaping up to be quite the spectacle for Netflix. Scheduled for November 15, this bout is already generating significant interest and is poised to be a major hit for the streaming platform. Despite Tyson’s age, he remains a box office attraction, and with Paul’s large following, this event promises to deliver excitement.

The contest is expected to be a lucrative affair for both fighters as they step into the ring. Questions are swirling about whether Tyson, at 58 years old, can keep up with the much younger Paul, who is 27. One of the requests from Tyson’s team is to shorten the rounds to 2 minutes instead of the traditional 3, which could benefit Tyson by reducing the energy he needs to exert.

Jake Paul, however, has responded to this request as he ramps up promotional momentum for the fight. In an interview with the Daily Mail, he criticized Tyson’s request, stating that it won’t affect the fight's outcome. “I’m giving him everything he wants. I’m going to his playground, and I’m going to beat his a**,” Paul said, showcasing his confidence.

This matchup has not been without controversy, as many commentators question the fairness given the age difference. In the twilight of his career, Tyson suffered some heavy losses, while Jake Paul continues to impress with his punching power. At least the shorter rounds may mitigate the potential for serious punishment in what some are calling a glorified exhibition match.

#JakePaul #MikeTyson #BoxingMatch #NetflixFight #ExhibitionMatch #BoxingNews #FightPromotion #CombatSports #BoxingFans #CelebrityBoxing.

Toro Promotions, Inc. launched its pro boxing series, "The Heartbeat of LA Boxing," with a successful event at Pacific Palms Resort last night. Undefeated heavyweight Tsotne "Mr. T" Rogova (10-0, 7 KOs) headlined the card, capturing the vacant WBC U.S. heavyweight title with a unanimous decision over Alexander "The Great" Flores (19-5-1, 17 KOs) after 10 action-packed rounds. Rogova, a 2020 Ukraine Olympian, knocked down Flores in the second round and controlled the fight early. Flores mounted a mid-round comeback, but Rogova regained command to secure the victory.

In the co-main event, Walnut High School senior Paolo "Pow" Barredo (1-0, 1 KO) celebrated his pro debut with a fourth-round stoppage of featherweight Mychaquell "Myche" Shields (2-6). Barredo, a 2021 Junior Olympics champion, dropped Shields in the third round, setting up his impressive win just a week after his 18th birthday.

Other standout debuts included La Puente’s Alexandro “El Capitan” Alvarado (1-0, 1 KO), who stopped Eduardo Mondragon "El Azteca" Lopez in the third round of their lightweight bout, and Riverside’s Oscar Trujillo Enriquez (1-0, 1 KO), who knocked out Jesse "Suavecito" Zuniga (0-1) with a body shot in the second round.

The night opened with flyweight Enkhmandakh “Machine Gun Magi” Khurkuu (4-0, 1 KO) scoring a first-round knockout over Richard Morales (1-8).

Junior welterweight Sonny "The Bear" Robledo (10-0, 3 KOs) dominated Matt Gaver (3-10-2, 1 KO) over six rounds to keep his unbeaten record intact, while Hector Oros (1-0) edged Alexander Robles (0-1) in a close four-round junior bantamweight fight. In a closely contested junior lightweight bout, Michael "Chamuco" Bracamontes (10-2-1, 5 KOs) narrowly defeated Arsen Poghosyan (3-3-1) by majority decision.

Toro promoter Azat Torosyan praised the night, saying, “This was Southern California boxing at its finest. You won’t find many shows as good as tonight's.”

#Boxing #ProBoxing #BoxingLife #BoxingNews #FightNight #Knockout #HeavyweightChamp #TitleFight #Undisputed #BoxingHighlights

Boxing has its share of unsung heroes, and Terry Lee, who passed away on September 6, was one such figure. Widely regarded as the godfather of boxing in Contra Costa and East County, Lee's contributions to the sport were known by those who encountered him, though he rarely spoke of his impact.

Lee's professional boxing record stood at 18-20-5 (4 KOs), but his influence went beyond his own bouts. A light heavyweight on the Navy boxing team alongside famed trainer Jesse Reid, Lee had sparred with legends like Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. He even fought notable figures like Yaqui Lopez and once defeated future referee Richard Steele in the ring. Born December 13, 1943, Lee was a larger-than-life character, both inside and outside the ropes.

“He had great footwork, was a character in and out of the ring, and people just liked him,” said Linda Hudson, Lee’s former partner. 

Hudson recalled that Lee sparred with Foreman before the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" against Ali. During Foreman’s recovery from a hand injury, Lee even spent time with Ali’s camp, sparring with the champ and joining in on card games.

Hudson also shared stories of Lee's charm outside of the ring, like how he convinced the entire Irish Olympic team to visit their home, drawn by the warmth of a stove during the 1988 Olympic Trials in Concord. “I was with Terry for over 15 years, and we were partners in boxing,” she said. 

Lee’s speed and agility in the ring made him an ideal sparring partner for Foreman, who famously dubbed him, “Now you see him, now you don’t Terry Lee.”

Karl Sharrock, one of Lee’s proteges, shared a quote that stuck with him: “How do you think I survived against five or six No. 1 contenders? With a great jab and footwork,” Lee once told him. Sharrock added, “It made sense, and it hit home.”

Sharrock also highlighted Lee’s athleticism, noting his prowess in basketball.

Angelo Dundee once remarked that Lee could’ve made a lot of money if he fought at heavyweight. Former title contender Yaqui Lopez, recalled, “He was a very good person. I learned a lot from him... we were enemies in the ring, but we were friends outside of it.”

Local coach Sean Sharkey remembered Lee from his childhood. 

“I knew him as a young child, around 10 years old,” Sharkey said. 

Lee was a good friend of Sharkey’s father, Bruce Sharkey, a union organizer and professional wrestler. Sharkey recounted a unique ritual where his father hypnotized Lee before fights to strengthen his legs.

After retiring from boxing following a knockout loss to Vonzell Johnson on May 5, 1976, Lee transitioned into coaching, starting at the Martinez Boys Club and eventually founding his own gym in the late 1980s. Cliff Eidson, his son, discussing Lee’s impact on the community, said, “Terry Lee was a good person and helped a lot of kids in this area. I love him for that.”

According to David Burns, an amateur boxer in Lee's boxing program as a child, Lee’s philosophy was straightforward. “He could take a guy with no experience and build him into a real fighter,” Burns noted. 

Reflecting on Lee’s career as a coach, Burns added, “The sign of a good coach is when you can take a guy who knows nothing and make a fighter out of him.”

Jay Heater, a former Contra Costa Times writer, added, “Terry was the heart of the local boxing scene. He wasn’t just training pros – he was building a community. If you were around him, you knew he loved his fighters, and they loved him back.”

Hudson recalled an amusing story involving Muhammad Ali during a fundraiser in Concord. “We were coming out of the Orinda Tunnel at 65, 70 miles an hour. Ali tapped the driver on the shoulder, slid into the driver’s seat, and took the wheel. He looked over at me and raised his eyebrows – he was a real tease,” she said with a laugh. “That’s why he and Terry got along so well.”

Jeff Ruf, a matchmaker, fondly remembered Lee’s humor. “Terry could have me crying with laughter,” he said, recalling a story about Jules Sweeney, a coach who trained at Lee’s gym. “Jules came in hitting the heavy bag like a maniac, then asked us how he looked. Terry said, ‘You’re a bumblebee, Jules!’ That was Terry – always quick with a line.”

Mike Rodriguez, a cutman who has worked with nearly 30 world champions, remembered Lee as a legendary figure in East Bay boxing where Rodriguez was originally from. “Terry taught me to master the fundamentals,” Rodriguez said. “At a time when new-age trainers overlook the basics, Terry never let me forget how important the fundamentals are. That’s your foundation, no matter what you do in life.”

Rodriguez, who began training with Lee at 10 years old, recalled Lee’s emphasis on shadowboxing. “I can still hear his voice when he’d say, 'Get in the mirror.' It was all about mastering the fundamentals,” Rodriguez said. Despite breaks due to military service and a law enforcement career, Rodriguez, now 59, still thinks about Lee’s lessons.

Lee’s roster of fighters included Golden Glove and state champions, and one of his first professional fighters was junior middleweight Royon Hammond. “Terry and Linda did their best. They were new to the pro game, but Terry was really knowledgeable about boxing,” Hammond said.

Undefeated welterweight Art Morales, who started boxing at 10, recalled Lee’s mentorship. “Right off the bat, he said, ‘Hey, you know what, I like you.’ He started teaching me,” Morales said. This led to Morales sharing a hotel with room at the who knocked out Ruben Coronado on October 7, 2000, for his pro fight. Lee didn’t trust him to be left alone, Morales recalled. 

Lee, who was 80 years old, had been suffering from symptoms of dementia in his later years. 

“He was tired,” Eidson said. “He wanted to go see his mom.”

#TerryLee #BoxingLegend #EastBayBoxing #ContraCosta #GeorgeForeman #MuhammadAli #RumbleInTheJungle #BoxingCommunity #CoachLee #MartinezBoysClub #LegacyOfChampions #FightersRemembered #DementiaAwareness #BoxingMentor #RememberingTerryLee

Here’s a thought experiment for boxing fans who love a good “what if?” Just like the endless debate about the Trail Blazers passing on Michael Jordan for Sam Bowie in basketball, boxing often accepts outcomes as final. Let’s challenge that mindset. Here are five what-if scenarios from 2019 onward that could have reshaped the boxing world, while comparing them to see decent movies.

What If #1: Teofimo Lopez never lost to George Kambosos Jr., and Vasiliy Lomachenko fought Devin Haney in 2019? Imagine Fight Club meets Sliding Doors. In this scenario, the key decision was two-fold: Kambosos’ upset win over Lopez and the lack of a pre-pandemic fight between Haney and Lomachenko. Picture Lomachenko battling Haney in 2019. Regardless of who wins, the logical next step would be a clash with Lopez. Erase Kambosos’ victory over Lopez, and suddenly, lightweight boxing has a clear path for epic showdowns. Haney’s prolonged series with Kambosos wouldn’t have happened, and we might have seen Haney vs. Lomachenko faster or Lopez at their peaks. Maybe Shakur Stevenson or Gervonta Davis? Instead, the division remains tangled in rematch clauses and star egos, akin to Ocean’s 11 with too many actors refusing to share the spotlight.

What If #2: Anthony Joshua didn’t lose to Andy Ruiz Jr. and fought Deontay Wilder instead? This is The Departed – a single pivotal action changes everything. If Joshua had avoided defeat by Ruiz in 2019, he’d be gearing up for a major showdown with Deontay Wilder. Wilder had just come off a dramatic knockout of Dominic Breazeale and a draw with Tyson Fury, while Joshua, despite some shaky performances, was still the next big thing. Ruiz’s unexpected win made Joshua beatable. If Joshua had won against Ruiz, even narrowly, he and Wilder would have been on a collision course. Instead, Wilder faced Luis Ortiz, lost twice to Fury, and Joshua dropped two fights to Usyk. The heavyweight division shifted from must-see to “What happened to these guys?” with Usyk and Fury emerging as the top guys of the era, not Joshua and Wilder.

What If #3: Canelo Alvarez fought David Benavidez? Think The Godfather Part III of boxing what-ifs. Something people remember, but maybe not fondly. Canelo’s career will reach legendary status just like The Godfather, although the fight against Benavidez might serve as the ending of Godfather Part III to his career. A bout between these two might have solidified Alvarez’s legacy as not just the best of his era but potentially the greatest Mexican boxer ever. Now, it seems that ship has sailed. Canelo, like an aging rock star on a reunion tour, is content fighting whoever he chooses. Benavidez, meanwhile, remains a promising talent without a major test. His losses of the WBC super middleweight belt, once due to the scale and once due to a drug test (a recreational drug), could have paved the way for this fight. Instead, we’re left speculating about what could have been, feeling increasingly indifferent as time passes, much like the anticipation of Lennox Lewis vs. Riddick Bowe – great on paper but ultimately never happening in the pros. The only difference, we got Lewis-Bowe in the Olympics, we never saw Alvarez-Benavidez before. 

What If 3b: Canelo Alvarez Gets Praised for Not Fighting David Benavidez?

Here’s a wild thought: What if the world actually praised Alvarez for not fighting Benavidez as a savvy business move? Think about it. Floyd Mayweather got all kinds of love for stringing out the Manny Pacquiao fight, dragging it through a half-decade of will-they-won’t-they drama, and then cashing in for a record payday. It wasn’t just boxing skill; it was a masterclass in business. Mayweather knew exactly how to squeeze every last drop from the fight, playing chess while the rest of the sport was stuck on checkers.

Now, Canelo? He gets a little bit of that praise, but not quite to the same extent. Sure, he’s got his loyal fans and a fat paycheck every time he steps in the ring, but he’s not getting the same "genius businessman" narrative that Floyd had. Could it be that Mayweather was the pioneer in dragging out fights just as social media was blowing up, giving him that perfect storm of hype? (Side note: remember when Floyd was plugging that “Shots App” during the Andre Berto post-fight presser, labeling it ‘the anti-bullying app’? That was peak Money Mayweather.)

With Canelo, it’s different. Instead of a collective pat on the back for milking the clock on a Benavidez showdown, there’s this sense of bitter indifference.

This is boxing’s version of Heat – two elite talents at their peak, circling each other like De Niro and Pacino at Kate Mantilini’s, yet the fight still hasn’t happened. Terence Crawford and Jaron Ennis in the same ring would be a welterweight fan’s dream. But as thrilling as the matchup sounds, it’s stuck in the usual boxing limbo of “maybe next year” and endless negotiations, or even worse – no talks at all.

On paper, it's a blockbuster. Crawford’s a seasoned 36, a pound-for-pound king, while Ennis is the rising 27-year-old star, hungry for his defining moment. But that age gap makes it feel a little too good to be true, like watching Pacino and De Niro in The Irishman – you just wish it happened a few years earlier. Ennis hasn’t really fought anyone with Crawford’s level of experience, and that’s probably what's keeping this fight from getting made. You know, the whole “he’s got to prove himself first” argument we always hear in boxing.

Still, it's one of those matchups you can't help but imagine. Fans are already salivating over it, the same way they get excited about Vergil Ortiz vs. Ennis. Crawford vs. Ennis has that “now or never” energy. If it just happened, it could define the next era of welterweight boxing. But for now, we’re stuck waiting, hoping it doesn’t turn into another fight that fizzles – making us say ‘what-if.’

What If #5: Kenshiro Teraji didn’t get knocked out? For the hardcore fans, this is the Kaiser Soze of what-ifs. Teraji, a junior flyweight champion with 12 title defenses, was knocked out by Masamichi Yabuki in 2021. Although he avenged the loss in style, that knockout could have had more significant repercussions. Without that defeat, Teraji might have been in line for high-profile fights against Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez or Juan Francisco Estrada (yes, he’d move past his ideal weight classes, but it will still be talked about). Instead, it’s like The Usual Suspects ending – leaving us craving more details and wondering how Teraji’s unbeaten status might have affected potential matchups, such as a fight with Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez. 

#AnthonyJoshua #TeofimoLopez #CaneloAlvarez #KenshiroTeraji #DavidBenavidez #DeontayWilder #GeorgeKambososJr #AndyRuizJr #ShakurStevenson #DevinHaney #TerenceCrawford #JaronEnnis #TysonFury #OleksandrUsyk #MasamichiYabuki

Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn believes Devin Haney’s lawsuit against Ryan Garcia could be a positive tipping for the sport.

Garcia defeated Haney in April in New York on points, dropping Haney three times, but the result was overturned after Garcia tested positive for banned substances.

Haney, on Friday, filed a lawsuit, and Hearn believes it could have significant ramifications on the sport.

“Win, lose or draw in court, I think this is actually a good thing to deter fighters from using performance enhancing drugs because the penalty [implemented in boxing] is not strict enough,” Hearn told Boxing Social. “Like Ryan Garcia is a good example where he’s got a year’s ban. By the time you have six months off and a little break, you’re going back into camp. 

“But the deterrent of losing tens of millions of dollars is much worse. So now that there’s a potential legal action, against someone that takes performance enhancing drugs, I actually think it’s a pivotal moment for the sport in that respect. 

“And I’ve spoken to a lot of lawyers about it, it’s certainly not clear cut either way, but they believe the case has a lot of merit and it’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out.” 

#DevinHaney #RyanGarcia #BoxingNews #PerformanceEnhancingDrugs #BoxingLawsuit #EddieHearn #HaneyVsGarcia #CourtBattle #BoxingControversy

Promoter Paco Damian has signed junior lightweight Elvin Soto, the 18-year-old son of former two-division titleholder Humberto “Zorrita” Soto. 

Elvin made his professional debut last weekend in Mexico winning by way of a first-round knockout. 

Starting boxing at the age of 11 and competing in his first amateur bout at 12, Soto’s journey seems destined. He spent four years with CONADE (National Commission of Physical Culture and Sports), winning the municipal championship for four consecutive years, three state titles, and two regional championships.

“I also participated in a binational tournament where I became champion against representatives from the United States,” Soto said. “I also competed in the International Tournament, Guerra en la Frontera, placing second the first year and winning the title in the second.”

Fábrica de Campeones and 8Count Media will manage his career alongside promoter Paco Damian. Trainer and manager Bobby Quirarte, who guided him through his amateur years, now oversees his training at Tijuana’s renowned Crea Gym with Don Romulo and Roberto Quirarte. The gym is known for producing champions, like Julio Cesar Chavez Sr.

Damian recalled an early introduction to Elvin’s talent saying, “I remember having breakfast with his father, Humberto, a few years ago. He showed me a video of this young kid sparring, and I asked who it was. He proudly said, ‘That’s my son, Elvin.’

Elvin expressed his enthusiasm for his debut. “I’m thrilled to begin my professional career in Tijuana, where my father trained and fought,” he said.

Undefeated super lightweight contender “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams will be featured in the co-main event on DiBella Entertainment’s Heroes on the Hudson 2 on Wednesday, October 23, from The Theater at Madison Square Garden. 

This latest edition of Broadway Boxing will be a special event, honoring veterans of the United States Armed Forces in advance of Veterans Day.

IBF bantamweight world champion Miyo Yoshida headlines the card, making the first defense of her belt in a rematch against Shurretta Metcalf.

The world-rated Mykquan Williams (21-0-2, 10 KOs), of East Hartford, CT, meets Lavisas Williams (10-1-1, 3 KOs), of Rochester, NY.

Trained by longtime coach Paul Cichon, out of Manchester Ring of Champions Society boxing gym, Mykquan began the year by capturing his belt in January with an impressive sixth-round knockout of previously unbeaten Luis Feliciano. Then, in June, as part of the celebratory weekend where his manager, Jackie Kallen, was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Mykquan earned a third-round stoppage victory against Willmank Brito in Verona, NY.

Mykquan said: “This will be my first time boxing at Madison Square Garden and I am excited to fight in such a historic venue on a card honoring our military veterans,” said Williams. “I am looking to close out the year on a high note and move on to bigger and better things in 2025.”

“Super lightweight contender Mykquan Williams, a staple of the Broadway Boxing series since his pro debut, is a great addition to Heroes on the Hudson 2. Beginning the year with a career-best performance, he has really grown into a full-fledged top-10 world-class contender,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “As he marches toward a world title opportunity, he must first get past slick southpaw Lavisas Williams on October 23.”

Ryan Garcia is the name being spoken about the most right now in the world of boxing.

Ever since news emerged that Devin Haney is suing ‘King Ry’, Garcia has been a topic spoken about by many.

It’s a rare occurrence when a boxing sues another boxer.

What’s rarer is that the lawsuit is related to endangering an opponent due to a doping violation.

But that’s exactly what has happened in this instance.

Of course, Eddie Hearn was asked by the YouTube team about the matter as well as a number of other boxing outlets.

Hearn, who is chairman of Matchroom Boxing and the promoter for the likes of Anthony Joshua as well as other boxers, commented on the matter.

In several YouTube videos addressing the matter, Hearn mentions that a lawsuit is probably more effective when just a suspension from the boxing authorities.

Based on Hearn’s calculations, most boxers get suspended for six months and then they’re in camp sooner rather than later.

So a suspension doesn’t hit as hard.

But a lawsuit that costs you millions in your back pocket is a much more effective deterrent for anyone thinking of taking any illegal substances in the eyes of Eddie Hearn.

Of course, these comments have not gone down well with Ryan Garcia.Boxer needs oxygen after KO in professional debut

In a series of tweets this evening, Garcia has a go at a range of individuals.

Boxing journalists and Devin Haney are recipients of a riposte from the California native.

But the harshest words are reserved for Eddie Hearn.

Posting on his Twitter/X account, Ryan Garcia goes in on the British promoter.

“Eddie Hearn is a hypocrite His fighter Benn tested positive for a banned substance and tried to make the fight still happen. My fight no one knew about anything in my system till weeks after my fight. This is some clown s*** by Eddie Hearn.”

In typical Ryan Garcia fashion, he’s vocal and forthright on his social media.

It’s important to note that Garcia has always protested his innocence on the matter and believes that he will cleared in due course.

But it’s certainly clear that he’s not happy with what Eddie Hearn has had to say on the matter.

Just like Garcia, Hearn isn’t exactly a shrinking violet when it comes to speaking his mind.

So we’re sure the promoter will have his say in response soon enough.Eddie Hearn is a hypocrite

His fighter benn tested positive for a banned substance and tried to make the fight still happen

My fight no one knew about anything in my system till weeks after my fight

This is some clown shit by Eddie Hearn

Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed he will explore earlier main event start times in 2025.

Hearn was talking to IFL after Terri Harper’s points victory over Rhiannon Dixon in Sheffield, a main event that saw a comparatively early finish to the show after several undercard fights went short.

“It wasn’t intentional tonight, we had some early stoppages, but [it’s] so much better,” said Hearn.

“I just feel like everyone leaving here tonight has gone, ‘Oh, 10 o’clock, we could pop for a pint’, or ‘we could go for a bite to eat’, or ‘we could just go home and get a good night’s kip’.”

Hearn had already told BoxingScene that he and his team were “looking to do things differently” next year. 

“Next week, we begin all our meetings at the HQ about how we’re going to change the shows for 2025. One of the big things is a 9pm main event. Guaranteed. Or, as close to guaranteed as possible. What a difference it makes,” Hearn added.

“Historically, boxing has always dragged on ‘til like 10.15, 10.30, 10.45, 11pm main event. It doesn’t have to be like that.” 

Bruce Carrington capped the biggest win of his career on Friday night, but his focus remained on giving credit where he believed it was due — to his faith and to his toughest challenge yet.

Carrington (13-0, 8 KOs) overcame his most difficult test to date in Sulaiman Segawa (17-5-1, 6 KOs), the WBC’s No. 3-ranked featherweight. "You're a good fighter, bro, yeah, definitely my best competitor I've had so far," Carrington said after the fight. He also credited his faith for the win, adding, "I want to thank God for my victory, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ."

The fight was hard-fought from the start, with Segawa outworking Carrington early, landing more punches and briefly rocking the unbeaten contender with hooks in the second round. Carrington responded with sharp counterpunchinQg, setting up a back-and-forth battle.

As the rounds wore on, Carrington began to take control. He landed a solid right hand in the fourth round, which energized the New York crowd, and then adjusted his strategy by focusing on body shots to slow Segawa’s pace.

A head clash in the seventh left Carrington with a noticeable bump, but he pressed forward in the final rounds, pushing the action while Segawa threw awkward, defensive shots. In the end, the judges scored the bout 95-95, 97-93, and 97-93 in Carrington’s favor.

Reflecting on the win, Carrington acknowledged the challenge Segawa presented. “I owe him a lot,” Carrington said. “This is just going to get me to the next level.”

Mikaela Mayer reclaimed her place among boxing's elite Friday night, capturing the WBO welterweight title with a thrilling majority decision victory over Sandy Ryan at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

The win marked a significant comeback for the 34-year-old Mayer (20-2, 5 KOs), who had suffered back-to-back losses in her previous title bouts. After controversial defeats to Alycia Baumgardner and Natasha Jonas, Mayer's performance signaled a resurgence.

The judges scored the bout 95-95, 96-94, and 97-93 in favor of Mayer, a decision she felt confident about as the fight progressed.

“I always said before I respected Sandy as a boxer. She has a big pedigree, just like myself, but I knew I was going to beat her to the punch. I knew I was faster and sharper, and that’s exactly what I did,” Mayer said. “I always turn it on in the second half of the fight, and she just couldn’t handle my timing. I felt like I won the fight, and I’m just glad I got the right decision this time.”

Ryan (7-2-1, 3 KOs), 31, entered the fight as the reigning WBO welterweight champion and brought physicality to the contest. However, Mayer’s technical precision ultimately proved too much.

“She was probably the strongest person I’ve ever boxed, not so much in her shots, but you could feel it in her body, trying to push me around the ring,” Mayer said. “Skill beats strength.”

For Mayer, the victory is a crucial step in her quest to become the undisputed welterweight champion after moving up from lightweight.

“I want to finish what I started and go undisputed,” Mayer said. “I came this close at lightweight, but my body outgrew that weight. I’m comfortable now. I feel like I’m stronger than ever, still in my prime, as you can see. So I’m coming for the other champions.”

While Mayer left the door open for a potential rematch with Ryan, her focus remains on bigger challenges in the division.

“I’m here for what the fans want,” Mayer said. “If the fans demand a rematch and the money’s right, then we can do it. Otherwise, there’s plenty of girls at welterweight that I want to challenge myself against. Either way, you’re not going to see me in an easy fight. I’m going for the biggest and best.”

Reflecting on the emotional ups and downs of her career, Mayer said those experiences have only made her stronger.

“I’ve had to experience all types of emotions, from the highs to the lows, and still had to perform under all of that,” she said. “When that bell rings, it’s all in the past anyway.”

Terence Crawford is a boxing great.

On his way to 41-0, the Nebraska native has won countless titles across a range of divisions.

Just last month, Crawford won the World Boxing Association (WBA) light middleweight and World Boxing Organization (WBO) interim light middleweight titles.

This was followed by the southpaw vacating the WBO welterweight championship as undefeated champion.

He’s in the conversation for pound-for-pound best boxer in the world, without a doubt.

But even boxing greats have the same problems as the common man.

And last night, Crawford seems to have experienced an example of that.

Taking to Twitter/X, Terence Crawford lays into British Airways and accuses the airline of stealing his baggage.

In an understandably frustrated tone, Crawford did not hold back as he tweeted his annoyance with the shocking allegations.WWE approach boxer to join NXT

” @British_Airways / @traveloneworld we have a problem. Not only did you guys make me miss my flight, but your baggage handlers also stole ALL of my s*** that I purchased at the Louis Store in the International Terminal. I need answers asap. I have receipts for all my stuff also. Tens of thousands of dollars of shoes, clothes, accessories, everything stolen right out of my bag. we got a real problem.”

There are some serious accusations there from Crawford if they were to be proved true.

Following up with more tweets, Terence Crawford claims that his socks and underwear were taken as well as his children’s new clothes.

For anyone who has been on a flight and lost their baggage, we can all understand the frustration that Crawford would have been feeling at that moment in time.

Right now, it doesn’t seem that British Airways have responded to the tweets.

But with such a high profile sporting personality making such shocking claims, it’ll surely be only a matter of time when they do.@British_Airways / @traveloneworld we have a problem. Not only did you guys make me miss my flight, but your baggage handlers also stole ALL of my shit that I purchased at the Louis Store in the International Terminal. I need answers asap. I have receipts for all my stuff also.…

— Terence Crawford (@terencecrawford) September 27, 2024

Eddie Hearn is one of the biggest promoters in the boxing world.

Chairman of Matchroom Sports, Hearn has promoted fights including some of boxing’s biggest names including Canelo Alvarez, Gennady Golovkin and Katie Taylor.

But the biggest name in the stable of boxers for Eddie Hearn is undoubtedly Anthony Joshua.

News emerged yesterday that Anthony Joshua has been suspended by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) after his knockout by Daniel Dubois.

Despite that setback, it’s quite clear that Joshua will be stepping back into the ring once his suspension is over.

The question is, who will he be facing?

Boxing fans and commentators have been wondering what the next fight for AJ will be.

There are two clear favourites.

There’s the rematch with Daniel Dubois.Boxer needs oxygen after KO in professional debut

Or a fight with Tyson Fury if ‘The Gypsy King’ fails to beat Oleksandr Usyk in their rematch in December.

If there’s anyone who knows what the potential future for Anthony Joshua would be, it’s Eddie Hearn.

Speaking to the YouTube channel, Hearn details what the primary focus for Joshua is.

“We’ve got a very simple decision to make. If Josh[ua] is physically ready for the date His Excellency [Turki Al-Sheikh] is proposing, and I’ll let him talk further on that date when the time comes, we will rematch Daniel Dubois. If he’s not ready, then we will wait for Tyson Fury against Oleksandry Usyk. The attraction for AJ is that he has a straight shot at the world heavyweight title again, right. Tough fight. You know, a lot of confidence from Dubois. We know AJ can do much better. We believe he can beat Daniel Dubois. A very dangerous fight. But it’s a shot at the world heavyweight title. And I’ve never known AJ to turn that opportunity down. And he won’t. But it will be up to us to speak to the doctors. Look at the scans on his hands and see if he’s ready for that date. Because, if not, you’re really waiting for Tyson Fury. And if Tyson Fury loses against Usyk, it’s still a big fight but it’s not for the world heavyweight title”.

So that seems to confirm that the priority number one for Anthony Joshua is a rematch with Daniel Dubois.

A potential clash with Tyson Fury looks more like the backup option.

That would mean that the fight that boxing fans have been waiting for years, Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury, is likely to be delayed again.

The only potential way that would happen is if Joshua doesn’t recover in time for the date that His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh plans for the Dubois rematch.

Eddie Hearn talked about a range of issues including his response to Simon Jordan’s recent comments against him as well as his reaction to the Devin Haney lawsuit. You can watch the full video below.

Joshua John, 10-2, has revealed that his British and Commonwealth bantamweight title fight with Andrew Cain is off.

The fight was due to support Nick Ball’s maiden defense of his WBA featherweight title against Ronny Rios which takes place in Liverpool on October 5. 

Cain, 12-1 (11 KOs), won the title by stopping Ash Lane in brutal fashion in July and was set for a quick first defense in front of his home town fans against the 29-year-old Welshman. 

The fight didn’t appear on September’s board circular and BoxingScene has learned that the British Boxing Board of Control rejected the fight.

The destructive Cain will instead fight Colombia’s Lazaro Casseres, 11-1 (4 KOs), for the vacant WBC International Silver bantamweight title. 

The fight would have been a major step up for John but he spoke confidently at the press conference to announce the fight and posted the following on Facebook to voice his heartbreak at missing out on the opportunity:

“I AM SORRY TO HAVE TO WRITE THIS TO EVERYONE WHO’S BOOKED HOTELS ETC IT’S OUT OF MY HANDS. 140 PEOPLE HAVE BOOKED HOTELS AND I AM SORRY ABOUT THIS. 

“I can’t believe my fight has officially been called off. I feel like I haven’t just wasted this training camp, but I’ve wasted 20 years of my life. I’ve trained my whole life for this opportunity, and now, with only two weeks left, it’s been taken away from me. I know I would’ve won that fight, and it would’ve changed my life and my family’s life—that’s the only reason I do this sport. After everything I’ve sacrificed and missed out on, it feels like it’s all been for nothing, and no one has even given me a proper explanation.

“First, they questioned my credibility, which we proved was more than good enough. Then, they brought up my weight, but that wasn’t a problem either. I weighed nine stone at my check weigh-in eight weeks out, and I was eight stone 10 four weeks out, perfectly on super bantam. Today, I’m basically on weight - bantamweight. So, the weight wasn’t the issue.

“Then they decided the belts wouldn’t be on the line, but I even accepted that, agreeing to fight over 10 rounds at super bantam. I said I’d fight him at any weight at this point because I’ve done my training, made the weight, and regardless of what weight it was at, I know I’d beat him. And now, with only two weeks left, I get a phone call saying the fight is off. No explanation.

“I don’t know if it’s the boxing board or the other team, but either way, they don’t want the fight because they know I was bringing that title back to Wales, and I was the one in fear mind. 

“Honestly, I don’t even know what to say. This sport feels like a joke. All the money I’ve spent and the training I’ve done, not just for this fight, but for the last 20 years, has been for nothing. I’m nearly 30 now, and if I’m not allowed to fight for titles like this at this stage, when will I ever be? I don’t know who’s responsible, and frankly, I don’t care. Whoever it is, it’s pathetic to take someone’s dream away with no valid reason.

“I’ve done everything they asked. I did the press conference, the locked-in episode, and everything else. I was ready to fight Andrew Cain at any weight, for any title, and still, it’s not enough. If you’re dedicating your life to this sport right now, I’d seriously sit back and think hard about it—because it’s not what it seems.

“I am absolutely speechless and don’t know what to do with this sport from now on.”

One fight which does seem certain to take place is an interesting clash between unbeaten hot prospect, Cameron Vuong, and Welsh veteran, Gavin Gwynne. 

Although there has been no official word yet, it is believed that the fight will form part of the undercard of the eagerly awaited flyweight fight between former IBF champion, Sunny Edwards, and unbeaten 2020 Olympic Gold medallist, Galal Yafai, in Birmingham on November 30th.

A fight would take place at 139lbs.

Vuong, 6-0 (3 KOs), took a short notice opportunity and beat Joe Underwood Hughes over eight hastily arranged rounds at the open workout to promote last week’s world title fight between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua. 

The 22-year-old has been a professional for just under a year but his team believe he has what it takes to move quickly and boxing the tough former British lightweight champion, Gwynne, in just his seventh professional fight is a clear display of their faith in his ability.

Gwynne, 17-3-1 (5 KOs), has been desperate for a chance to redeem himself after suffering a comprehensive defeat to Mark Chamberlain in Saudi Arabia back in March. The Welshman spent years waiting for the chance to break out but his big night went badly wrong within seconds when virtually the first shot Chamberlain landed caused his eye to swell dramatically. The 34 year-old found it impossible to see the shots coming and was stopped in the fourth round. 

That defeat apart, Gwynne was a big strong, relentless lightweight and should benefit from the move up in weight. 

John Evans has contributed to a number of well-known publications and websites for over a decade. You can follow John on X @John_Evans79

How the fight started between Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua led to how the fight ended, according to Tony Bellew.

Dubois came out looking to fight. Anthony Joshua came out looking to box.

“There was no warm-up or feel-out period in the fight, it was just ‘come out and let my hands go,’” Bellew said in an interview with Liam Solomon of Instant Casino . Bellew is a former cruiserweight titleholder who now does boxing commentary, and he’s also friends with Joshua. 

“Joshua came out and started fencing, and when you start fencing with this jab, if your jab isn’t sharp and strong to start the fight off with, you’re going to let someone in. This is a weapon, this is not a rangefinder, this is not a toy. This has got to be used as a weapon in the early part of a fight. 

“Lennox Lewis used to do it brilliantly. Lennox Lewis’ jab, he would come out and he would let you know who’s bossing them first. Boom, boom, straight down the pipe, and then he would ease his way in. Then the odd jab would be a speed jab, and it would be a variation of jab. But at the start of a fight, everything has to be sharp and fast. You do not want to be counted and get caught cold at the start of a fight.”

Joshua was caught with a clean right hand early in the first and then knocked down as the round came to an end. Joshua returned to the canvas again and again, downed in the third and fourth rounds. He had some success in the fifth and got overconfident, throwing a right uppercut while dropping his left hand, leaving himself wide open for a short right hand counter from Dubois, a destructive blow that put Joshua down for the count.

“He just didn’t let his hands go, and that’s the top and bottom of it, really,” Bellew said. “If Anthony Joshua meets him head on and lets his hands go, it’s George Foreman and Ron Lyle all over again but, I’ll tell you something, it’s over even quicker. I think that benefits Anthony Joshua. But obviously he didn’t feel the same. His team didn’t feel the same, and they adopted a different game plan. I understand what I’m saying is very risky. And it’s dangerous. But when your attributes stack up better than your opponent’s attributes — when you’re a little bit faster than your opponent, stronger, better technical ability, better footwork, better defense — I don’t understand why you don’t get into exchanges with them straight away.

“By the analogy I’ve just laid out, if you’re a bit quicker, you’re going to get there first. If you’re a bit more explosive, the shots are going to be more damaging. He just didn’t take that approach, and that’s on him and the team.”

Bellew disagreed with those who believe Joshua’s past success in the sport, be it his two title reigns or the riches he’s earned, have taken away his current hunger. There’s a saying often ascribed to Marvelous Marvin Hagler about how difficult it is to get out of bed early for road work when you’re sleeping in silk pajamas.

“The last thing Anthony Joshua has is the silk pajama effect,” Bellew said. “I’ve watched him in training camp in Texas with the likes of Derrick James. I’ve watched how he works, how diligent he is with his preparation. He’s one of the best athletes I’ve ever seen in heavyweight boxing, if not the best as an athlete and a specimen. What’s happened is, he’s been shook to his boots in that first round, and that right hook would have knocked out a horse. To get up and carry on fighting after getting nailed so hard, you’ve seen the stills and the slows on the shot. It’s on the button. It’s bang on the button. There’s nothing wrong with Anthony Joshua’s chin, because he got up.

“I think the ‘silk pajama effect,’ that’s a tired, easy analogy to give. He gets in there. He’s in great shape,” Bellew said. He soon added: “The only thing that gets you up is fitness. How fit are you? And as you know, getting fit happens in those 14 weeks before the fight, during the camp. Anthony Joshua gets off the floor after getting hit with sledgehammers, mate, and to get up like that shows you how fit he was. To be that fit, you’ve got to work so hard in camp.”

#AnthonyJoshua #DanielDubois #TonyBellew #Boxing #BoxingNews

To many, Anthony Joshua’s unsuccessful attempt at becoming a three-time heavyweight belt-holder should force the English fighter into early retirement.

That assertion may not be far-fetched considering the manner in which Joshua was manhandled by opponent Daniel Dubois last Saturday; Joshua had failed to recover from Dubois’ first round right hook that sent him to the canvas, leaving him struggling to find his feet throughout the fight.

Just when he felt he had found his momentum in the fifth round – by landing two quick shots that hurt Dubois – Joshua was sent crushing with a devastating right hand that ended the fight in favor of Dubois.

Despite the showdown being one-sided, it was a thrilling encounter and a well-deserved victory for the 27-year-old Dubois – who made it three consecutive stoppage victories. While Joshua’s camp had expressed their desire to exercise an immediate rematch clause with Dubois – in what could be a mouthwatering encounter next year – the wait for the former’s quest to become a three-time heavyweight boss continues.

At age 34, Joshua does not have the luxury of time and the question still remains if he’s ready to take Dubois’ hard shots when they land.

But Joshua is not the only fighter to have had a failed attempt at becoming a three-time champion and may certainly not be the last…

‘Iron’ Mike Tyson

Mike Tyson remains one of the greatest heavyweight fighters of all time having reigned from 1986, when he won the WBC strap, to 1990, when he lost all three belts. In one of the biggest sporting upsets in history, Tyson lost to James ‘Buster’ Douglas in Tokyo via a 10th-round KO win in February,1990.

Six years later, Tyson became a two-time champ when he knocked out Frank Bruno in three rounds to win the WBC title. Tyson would go on to beat Bruce Seldon in September, 1996, earning a first round KO, winning the WBA belt in the process.

Tyson lost his belt to Evander Holyfield two months later in an 11 th -round TKO defeat. In a rematch, Tyson was disqualified at the end of round three for biting Holyfield on both ears in June, 1997. Tyson had to wait for the next five years to get another opportunity at fighting for the heavyweight championship again.

It was against Lennox Lewis in 2002. This was Tyson’s third and final attempt at becoming a heavyweight titlist which failed after Lewis dominated the bout, knocking Tyson out in eight rounds.

Wladimir Klitschko

Ukraine’s Wladimir Klitschko first became a world titlist when he decisioned Chris Byrd unanimously to win the WBO belt in Oct. 2000. After five successful defenses spanning three years, Klitschko lost his title to Corrie Sanders in a second round stoppage loss.

He failed to regain his title a year later when he fought Lamon Brewster but Klitschko became a two-time champion in April, 2006 when he knocked out Chris Byrd in seven rounds to annex the IBF title.

After adding the WBO strap in a unanimous decision victory over Sultan Ibragimov in Feb. 2008, and adding the WBA crown after outsourcing David Haye three years later, Klitschko lost to Tyson Fury in 2015. However, he failed to become a three-time champion against Anthony Joshua in April 2017 in a bout for the IBF and WBA titles.

Andre Berto

A former two-time welterweight champ, Andre Berto became a 147-pound titlist in June, 2008 after winning a WBC belt made vacant by Floyd Mayweather Jr. – going on to defend the title for three years before losing it to Victor Ortiz in April, 2011.

On his return five months later, Berto retired Slovenian Jan Zaveck in five to win the IBF welterweight crown. Zaveck’s corner had stopped the fight due to a cut he suffered – a result which made Berto a two-time champ at 147.

Berto refused to defend his new IBF belt against mandatory challenger Randall Bailey, instead opting to avenge his then only career loss to Ortiz. The scheduled June, 2013 rematch fight between Berto and Ortiz was canceled after the former tested positive for a banned substance.

Berto lost consecutively to Robert Guerrero and Jesus Soto Karass upon his return. Berto did not give up and forced two quick wins against Steve Upsher Chambers and Josesito Lopez to land himself a September 2015 date with Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The WBC 147-pound championship saw Mayweather dominating a one-sided fight and earning a 12-round unanimous decision victory to dash Berto’s hope of becoming a three-time welterweight titlist.

Josh Warrington

Josh Warrington is a two-time featherweight champion, having held the IBF 126-pound title between 2018 and 2022. Warrington first won the IBF belt after decisioning Lee Selby in 12 rounds.

After three successful defenses, Briton Warrington fell short against Mauricio Lara in a ninth round TKO defeat in February 2021. Warrington would go on to exercise a rematch clause but the second fight was called a technical draw.

Warrington came back stronger in March, 2022 to regain his IBF title with an emphatic seventh round TKO win of Kiko Martinez. Nine months later, Warrington lost his title to Luis Alberto Lopez in a 12-round majority decision defeat.

On his third attempt at winning another featherweight crown, Leigh Wood recorded a seventh round stoppage win of Warrington in Oct. 2023, forcing him to move up to junior lightweight.

Joseph Agbeko

Ghana’s Joseph Agbeko dethroned Luis Alberto Perez ro become the IBF bantamweight titlist in Sept. 2007, recording a TKO victory in seven. With two successful title defenses, Agbeko lost his IBF belt to Yonnhy Perez of Colombia in Sept. 2009.

Twelve months later, Agbeko got his revenge by decisioning Perez in a rematch to reclaim his IBF title. Unfortunately for him, he would lose the belt in his next bout against Abner Mares in Aug. 2011 via a majority decision. 

Agbeko’s attempt at becoming a three-time bantamweight champ proved futile after losing a unanimous decision to Mares in a rematch four months later.

The career of Luis Alberto Lopez is in jeopardy after he suffered a brutal 10th-round knockout at the hands of Angelo Leo in August.

The knockout, delivered by a lead left hook that sent Lopez’s IBF featherweight title to Leo, occurred at Tingley Coliseum and left Lopez with a brain bleed, casting serious doubt on his future in the ring.

What is thus far the greatest night of Leo’s career may wind up being Lopez’s final moment in the ring.

Lopez’s co-manager, Hector Fernandez de Cordova, did not hold back in his criticism of the bout’s handling, particularly singling out referee Ernie Sharif.

“It was one of the worst referees I’ve seen in my life in boxing,” Fernandez said. "A guy like that does not deserve to be in the ring at a world title level – or even with amateurs. He’s a butcher. As a referee, you need to protect fighters from each other and from themselves.”

The situation escalated further after the fight, with Lopez’s team claiming it faced resistance from the New Mexico Athletic Commission to ensure Lopez follow-up medical attention.

“The commission was trying to convince me not to take him to the hospital,” Fernandez said. “They were like, ‘You don’t need to.’ But I was thinking, ‘If you guys don’t want to pay for it, it’s OK. I’ll pay for it. But we’re talking about my fighter’s health.’ He didn’t even know the fight was over.”

Lopez was eventually transported to the hospital, where he stayed overnight for observation. “The neurologist told us the bleed stopped, but we’ll need another MRI in six months,” Fernandez said. “If Lopez still wants to continue fighting, I’m going to reject any offer until we get that MRI. For me, it’s not about money or legacy; it’s about the life of the fighter. They’re like my kids, my siblings. I wouldn’t put them in any danger.”

Fernandez also clarified that Lopez’s injury was not caused by a legal punch attempt. Instead, he believes the brain bleed resulted from rabbit punches, explaining that the doctor informed him the bleed was at a 72-degree angle over Lopez’s left ear.

When reached for comment, Leo defended his performance, insisting his actions were within the rules. “I don’t consider myself a dirty fighter,” Leo said. “I would never aim for the back of the head due to the damages I have seen it do to other fighters.”

Leo acknowledged the physical nature of the bout but maintained that his punches were legal. “I think a lot of the action was on the inside,” Leo said. “We were both throwing hooks to the side of the head, which are legal blows. I was warned once for a rabbit punch because he was dipping low, but other than that, I don't think it altered the fight’s course.”

Adding complexity to the situation is the IBF’s 10-pound weigh-in limit on the morning of the fight, which requires fighters to weigh within 10 pounds of their previous day’s weight. Lopez, who has fought as heavy as lightweight, may have struggled with the weight cut, potentially weakening him before the fight – an issue that has yet to be widely addressed.

Despite these concerns, the most pressing issue remains Lopez’s brain injury, a stark reminder of the risks fighters take and the thin line between triumph and tragedy in boxing.

Lucas Ketelle is a proud member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and author of “Inside The Ropes of Boxing” (available on Amazon). Contact him on X @LukieBoxing.