Galal Yafai is gearing up for a showdown with Sunny Edwards, looking to make a statement in his hometown of Birmingham at the Resorts World Arena. The two former amateur rivals are set to clash in what promises to be an electrifying bout.
Reflecting on their journey from training together as amateurs to now facing off as professionals, Yafai is confident in his abilities. With Edwards coming off a tough loss but determined to bounce back, the stakes are high for both fighters.
Yafai, an Olympic gold medalist at flyweight, is eager to prove himself in the professional arena. He acknowledges the history between him and Edwards, stating, "It's just been brewing since then." Despite their contrasting styles – Yafai's aggressive pressure versus Edwards' tricky footwork – the match is expected to be a thrilling encounter.
As Yafai aptly puts it, "I’ve got to be the best version of Galal Yafai." With knockout potential on his mind, he is focused on executing his game plan effectively while respecting his opponent's skills. In the world of boxing, anything can happen, and Yafai is prepared to leave it all in the ring to secure victory.
Jonathan Navarro is gearing up for a thrilling showdown in Waterford, Ireland on December 7th, and he's not just carrying his gloves but also a wave of nostalgia from his amateur days representing USA Boxing worldwide.
In his first professional fight outside the United States, Navarro is set to face off against Jair Valtierra in a 10-round battle at the SETU Arena. Despite the distance from his California roots, Navarro sees this fight as a homecoming of sorts, reminiscing about his past globe-trotting experiences as an amateur boxer.
Excited about the upcoming bout, Navarro shared, "I've represented the USA and traveled around the world, but this will be my first time fighting abroad as a pro. I hope to win over the Irish fans with my performance and leave them wanting more."
His opponent, the resilient 23-year-old Mexican contender Valtierra, brings a record of 17-3 (9 KOs) to the ring. Despite facing tough competition in the past, Navarro respects Valtierra's fighting spirit, saying, "He's Mexican, so I expect him to bring heart and not back down. We're prepared to go the distance if needed."
Navarro's boxing journey hasn't been without challenges, as he returned to the sport in July after a five-year hiatus due to a biceps injury. Reflecting on his comeback win over Clarence Booth, Navarro acknowledged the difficulties of shaking off ring rust but emphasized the strength of his opponent.
Looking ahead to his fight in Ireland, Navarro is focused on continuing his momentum with rigorous training alongside his coach Sal Zavala and sparring at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy. Analyzing Valtierra's style, Navarro stressed the importance of timing and expressed his eagerness for a potential step up in competition after this bout.
As he gears up for an exciting match in Ireland, Jonathan Navarro's determination and passion for boxing shine through, promising fans a memorable performance in the ring.
The atmosphere was electric at The Paramount in Huntington, New York, as Wendy “The Haitian Fire” Toussaint blazed his way to victory in Rockin’ Fights 49. Going head-to-head with Argentina’s Brian “El Capitan” Arregui, Toussaint displayed grit and strategy, outshining his opponent over eight intense rounds. With judges Tony Paolillo and Steve Weisfeld scoring 80-72 and 79-73 in his favor, Toussaint secured a majority decision win, keeping his record at 16-3 (7 KOs) and setting the stage for bigger challenges ahead. Meanwhile, Arregui’s record now stands at 10-5 (7 KOs).
In a thrilling co-feature, the young Italian-American talent Micky Scala made a striking Rockin’ Fights debut, clinching a unanimous decision against Puerto Rico’s Luis “Conrazon De Oro” Ramos. Leveraging his height and reach advantage, Scala dictated the pace of the six-round bout, earning scores of 60-54 (twice) and 59-55. With this victory, Scala’s record climbs to 11-0 (6 KOs), marking a promising start after joining forces with Star Boxing, while Ramos now holds a record of 7-6-1 (7 KOs).
The crowd erupted as David “King David” Malul unleashed a spectacular third-round knockout against Zachary Davis, showcasing his raw power and skill in just his second professional fight. Malul’s record now stands at 2-0 (2 KOs), leaving Davis at 0-2 and hungry for redemption.
Harley “Heavy Hands” Burke faced an early setback with a knockdown from Tevin Terrance’s lethal left hook but displayed resilience and determination to claim a hard-fought victory by unanimous decision. With scores of 58-55, 58-55, and 57-56, Burke’s undefeated streak extends to 9-0 (7 KOs), while Terrance’s record shifts to 1-2-2 (1 KO).
John “The Warrior” Gjini dominated his bout against Luis Porozo, delivering a relentless performance that culminated in a fourth-round stoppage. Gjini’s lightning-fast punches and unyielding pressure proved too much for Porozo, resulting in a referee stoppage as Gjini’s record soared to an impressive 13-0 (12 KOs), while Porozo’s record dropped to 18-12 (9 KOs).
The opening match saw Long Island’s Frank “Magic” Monaco and Victor “El Patron” Pradis engage in a thrilling four-round battle that ended in a split draw. With Pradis targeting Monaco’s body and Monaco capitalizing on well-timed openings, judges ultimately scored the fight 38-38, 39-37, and 37-39, leaving both fighters with a shared outcome. Monaco’s record now stands at 2-0-1, while Pradis moves to 2-2-1, setting the stage for future showdowns and redemption tales in the ring.
In the world of boxing, "The Gloves Are Off" moments used to be the pinnacle of pre-fight insight, where fighters faced each other across a table in raw and unscripted exchanges. It was a rare chance for fans to witness the unfiltered energy and tension between opponents, stripped of the usual fight night trappings.
One unforgettable episode featured Carl Froch and George Groves in a showdown that revealed the depth of their rivalry. As the two fighters clashed in a Sky studio, the tension mounted, culminating in a surprising handshake that marked the end of a grueling day of filming and verbal jousting.
Groves, meticulous in his preparation, sought to unravel Froch's psyche with probing questions and relentless determination. However, Froch remained stoic, revealing little and leaving Groves frustrated in his quest to unsettle his opponent.
The subsequent rematch of the handshake encounter showcased the power dynamics between the two fighters, with Groves attempting a bold move to assert dominance, only to find himself grappling with unforeseen challenges and fatigue.
Over the years, such face-offs became a staple in boxing promotion, with moments like Charles Martin's bold statement against Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury's revealing anecdote before facing Wladimir Klitschko adding intrigue and depth to the matchups.
However, the format's ubiquity and the pressure to manufacture drama have led to a sense of fatigue among fans and fighters alike. The once-anticipated exchanges now risk becoming stale and formulaic, overshadowing the genuine rivalries and narratives that make boxing compelling.
As the sport grapples with the evolution of pre-fight promotion into content generation, there is a longing for the authenticity and mystery that once defined these encounters. The Froch-Groves handshake serves as a poignant symbol of this shift, reflecting the disillusionment and fatigue that pervades the current landscape of boxing promotion.
Saudi Arabia's Turki Alalshikh is on a mission to orchestrate thrilling fights at the perfect moment, and the boxing world is buzzing with excitement over the potential matchup between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron "Boots" Ennis. Sources reveal that the two knockout artists have verbally agreed to face off for Ortiz's WBC interim junior middleweight belt on a star-studded card set for February 22 in Riyadh.
The event promises to be a blockbuster, featuring top-tier matchups like Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol II for the undisputed light heavyweight championship, Daniel Dubois defending his IBF heavyweight title against Joseph Parker, and WBC middleweight titlist Carlos Adames taking on Hamzah Sheeraz. Eddie Hearn is also stirring up the pot by offering Floyd Schofield a hefty sum to step into the ring with Shakur Stevenson.
Ortiz's recent triumph over Serhii Bohachuk in Las Vegas showcased his resilience and skill, while Ennis is coming off a title-defense victory in Philadelphia. Alalshikh, impressed by Ortiz's performance, is determined to make this fight a reality, setting the stage for an epic clash of styles between Ortiz's aggressive approach and Ennis's versatile tactics.
With the potential showdown looming, boxing fans can't help but speculate on how the dynamic between these two fighters will unfold. Ennis's track record of ending fights early adds an element of unpredictability, but facing a formidable opponent like Ortiz could reveal his true mettle.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of negotiations, one thing is certain – if Ortiz and Ennis step into the ring in Saudi Arabia, it will be a spectacle for the ages. Stay tuned for more updates on this electrifying matchup and other exciting events in the world of boxing.
In a flurry of excitement, the suspended boxing sensation, Ryan Garcia, has set a date for his comeback – but this time, it's not for a professional bout. Instead, he will be facing off against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhilarating eight-round exhibition match on December 30 in Tokyo. The stage is set for a showdown at a catchweight of 153lbs, promising a thrilling spectacle for fans worldwide.
With his sights set on a spring return post-suspension, Garcia, boasting a record of 24-1 with 20 KOs, is eager to put this chapter behind him. Following his suspension due to a failed drug test, Garcia is already looking ahead to potential opponents upon his reinstatement. His hunger for big fights is palpable as he eyes matchups with the likes of Gervonta Davis, Teofimo Lopez, and Jose Valenzuela.
"I want the big fights against anybody that is going to bring a big event," Garcia expressed during a recent media interaction. The prospect of a rematch with Devin Haney also looms large, with Garcia keen on settling the score in a higher weight class. The anticipation for Garcia's return is building, with fans eagerly awaiting his next move in the ring.
However, amidst the buzz surrounding the exhibition match, a twist emerged as Garcia's promoter, Golden Boy, stated that the event could not proceed without their approval. The clash of interests added an unexpected layer of drama to the unfolding narrative, leaving fans wondering about the fate of Garcia's much-anticipated return to the ring.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits Garcia's return, the stage is set for a riveting comeback story filled with redemption, challenges, and the pursuit of glory. Stay tuned as this saga unfolds, promising high-stakes drama and electrifying matchups in the world of boxing.
Derek Chisora is gearing up for an exciting showdown at Manchester's Co-op Live on February 8, with Otto Wallin stepping in to face him after Jarrell Miller had to bow out due to a promotional dispute with Dmitry Salita. Wallin, known for his bouts against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, is set to bring his A-game against the experienced Chisora.
Wallin, hailing from Sweden, is coming off a victory over Onoriode Ehwarieme and is eager to prove himself after his previous match against Joshua. Chisora, at 40 years old, showed his resilience by defeating Joe Joyce in a surprising turn of events.
Fans can also look forward to an electrifying light-heavyweight fight between Willy Hutchinson and Zach Parker, a battle for the British and Commonwealth junior-welterweight titles featuring Jack Rafferty and Kane Gardner, and a Commonwealth featherweight title clash between Masood Abdulah and Zak Miller.
Promoter Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions expressed his excitement, stating, "This is a heavyweight fight I expect to deliver in a big way. Obviously Derek needs absolutely no introductions and fully deserves such a showpiece occasion on a magnificent stage against a top-class contender."
Liam Smith won't be stepping into the ring with Austin "Ammo" Williams in Liverpool as rumored. But fear not, fight fans, as the former WBO junior-middleweight champ is gearing up for a showdown with a different opponent soon.
Having been out of action since his defeat to Chris Eubank Jnr in 2023, Smith is itching to make a comeback. After a lackluster performance in their rematch, he's hungry for redemption and ready to prove himself once again.
Despite some setbacks, including a missed bout against Josh Kelly due to illness, Smith is now a free agent and exploring his options. Talks with Matchroom are ongoing, with negotiations in progress for a potential return to the ring with the promotional powerhouse.
Eddie Hearn, the man behind Matchroom, spilled the beans on the situation, hinting at a possible fight night in January. While the opponent remains a mystery, one thing is certain - Smith is eyeing a top-tier adversary for his comeback bout.
"He's ready," Hearn emphasized, highlighting Smith's eagerness for a challenging matchup. The Liverpool native is determined to face off against a world-class opponent, aiming for a fight that will truly put his skills to the test.
So, stay tuned, fight enthusiasts, as the stage is set for Liam Smith's highly anticipated return to the ring. With his sights set on a quality showdown, the excitement is palpable as the British boxing hero gears up for his next big challenge.
The buzz about a potential rematch between super middleweight champ William Scull and Vladimir Shishkin ordered by the IBF is off the mark, as clarified by Agon Sports promoter Ingo Volckmann.
The Scull-Shishkin bout was a nail-biter, with Scull clinching victory through close margins. But as they say, a tight fight doesn't always warrant controversy. Shishkin's camp hinted at a protest, but it's all talk for now.
Switching gears to the upcoming bouts, Denmark's rising star Hamza Hussein is set to square off against Argentina's Camilo Castagno in a last-minute lineup change. Meanwhile, local favorite Oliver Zaren will face off against Mexican Carlos Gallego Montijo in a super middleweight showdown. And let's not forget the featherweight headline featuring Sarah Mahfoud and Danila Ramos – promising an electrifying match-up.
Shifting focus to Italy, keep an eye out for Diego Lenzi as he steps into the pro boxing ring for the first time in Milan on December 15. Lenzi, a former Olympic contender, brings his A-game from the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he wowed audiences in the super heavyweight category.
Dmitry Salita is fiercely supporting his protege, the super middleweight Vladimir Shishkin, following a controversial loss to William Scull in Germany. Salita, a former fighter turned promoter, has taken action by appealing to the IBF against the questionable scoring that cost Shishkin a victory in the fight for the vacant title on October 19 in Germany.
Despite Shishkin's valiant effort, including a nearly decisive blow in the 12th round, the judges' scorecards heavily favored Scull, which Salita vehemently disputes. "We filed an appeal with the IBF, and I'm grateful they are giving it serious consideration," Salita expressed. "Vladimir threw and landed nearly double the punches as per CompuBox. Yet, the decision was unjust, especially in the 12th round where he almost dropped Scull, only to have the round awarded to him. It highlights the uphill battle we faced and the unfairness of the outcome."
Salita emphasized the detrimental impact of inconsistent judging on the sport, stating, "For boxing to evolve, especially with its growing presence on platforms like DAZN, consistency in judging is paramount. Victory should not be determined by the location of the fight. Fairness is essential for the sport to progress."
The controversial decision even drew criticism from unexpected quarters, with Salita noting, "Even Jake Paul, unrelated to Vladimir, voiced his disapproval on social media. Such injustices must be rectified for the sport to thrive."
The defeat had significant ramifications for Shishkin, potentially depriving him of lucrative matchups in the talent-rich super middleweight division. "The super middleweight division is fiercely competitive," Salita remarked. "Vladimir was on the cusp of major fights with the likes of 'Canelo' Alvarez, Chris Eubank Jnr, and Caleb Plant, which are significant opportunities missed due to the unfair decision."
Shishkin's journey to this point has been marked by resilience and sacrifice. Having relocated to Detroit in pursuit of his boxing dreams without a support network, he has shown unwavering dedication to his craft. "Vladimir has given his all for this sport and rightfully deserved the championship," Salita affirmed. "As his promoter, we are committed to seeking justice, and we appreciate the IBF's attention to our appeal."
In a thrilling showdown at the Alzafar Shrine Auditorium in San Antonio, the towering 6ft 3ins Filipino middleweight, Blazen Rocili, extended his unbeaten record with a dominant victory over Da Priest Johnson on Saturday night. Rocili, standing tall at 8-0 (6 KOs), displayed a veteran's confidence as he outclassed his opponent in a resounding unanimous decision.
With a perfect mix of skill and strategy, the 22-year-old Rocili controlled the ring with finesse, utilizing his reach and boxing intelligence to dictate the pace throughout the four rounds. The judges were unanimous in their decision, scoring the fight 40-36 in favor of the Las Vegas-based rising star.
Despite Johnson's efforts, with a record of 2-3, he struggled to keep up with Rocili's relentless onslaught and found himself predominantly in a defensive stance. Reflecting on his performance, Rocili expressed his elation at showcasing his talent in Texas, praising the electrifying crowd for their support. He acknowledged his opponent's evasive tactics but remained focused on executing his game plan, maintaining distance, applying pressure, and staying sharp, all while leaving the audience in awe.
Manager Andrew Bocanegra echoed Rocili's sentiments, commending his fighter's maturity and composure in the ring. Looking ahead, Bocanegra revealed plans to schedule Rocili for more challenging matchups early next year, aiming to elevate his experience and pave the way for significant opportunities in 2025. The future looks bright for Rocili, with limitless potential on the horizon.
Marco Romero continues his winning streak as he paves the way for big fights in Kansas, adding another victory to his record while on the road. The super middleweight prospect has been on fire lately, boasting a 4-0 record with 3 knockouts, following a stellar 12-month period where he dominated both the amateur and professional circuits, tallying an impressive 13-0 record.
In his recent bout in Portland, Maine, Romero faced off against Orlando Salgado, swiftly securing the win after just 1 minute and 21 seconds into the first round with a powerful left to the body. Salgado, now at 3-6 with 2 knockouts, fell victim to Romero's undeniable skill at Bobby Russo's Portland Boxing Club show at the Exposition Building on November 9.
Reflecting on his victory, Romero shared, "I've always had that power, especially that left hook to the body. I knew it was over when I hit him with that body shot and he grunted. I've worked a lot on that left hook to the head and body." Drawing inspiration from boxing legend Micky Ward, Romero expressed his admiration for Ward's story portrayed in the movie "The Fighter."
Having recently turned 19, Romero, a former amateur champion, made the strategic decision to transition to the professional realm, propelled by his father Salvador's early encouragement to pursue boxing at the age of seven. Looking ahead, Romero anticipates his next fight in the first quarter of 2025, following a well-deserved break to celebrate the holidays with his family.
Guiding Romero in his boxing journey is the seasoned 77-year-old John Brown, serving as both head trainer and manager, a role he previously held for former heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison. Brown commended Romero's performance in front of a vibrant crowd of 3,000 enthusiastic fans and emphasized the importance of securing challenging sparring partners to further elevate Romero's skills.
As Romero gears up for his next bout, Brown remains confident in the young fighter's potential, underscoring his dedication to continuous improvement and unwavering work ethic. With promising prospects on the horizon, Romero's journey to boxing stardom is just beginning, with each victory bringing him closer to his ultimate goal of competing in high-stakes matches.
Callum Smith is gearing up for an exciting return to the ring in Birmingham this Saturday, facing off against Carlos Galvan in an eight-round bout. The buzz around the boxing world hints at a potential showdown with Joshua Buatsi in early 2025.
Smith, with an impressive record of 29-2 (21 KOs), has his sights set on dominating the light-heavyweight division once again. His opponent, Galvan, hailing from Colombia and based in Spain, boasts a record of 20-14-2 (19 KOs).
After a tough loss to Artur Beterbiev last year, Smith is determined to make a comeback in the 175lbs weight class. Speculation is rife about a clash with Buatsi, with Smith eyeing the chance to become a two-weight world champion.
Eddie Hearn, Smith's promoter, sees Buatsi as a perfect match-up for the ambitious fighter. "I think it's a great fight," he mentioned, highlighting the potential for a thrilling showdown between the two skilled boxers.
Smith's brother, Stephen, emphasized the importance of Saturday's fight in Birmingham as a stepping stone for Smith's resurgence in the light heavyweight division. With momentum on his side, a fully prepared Smith poses a formidable challenge to anyone in the 175lbs weight class.
Looking ahead, the prospect of Smith regaining his peak form and taking on top contenders in the division is an exciting narrative that fans eagerly anticipate. As the boxing world awaits the unfolding of Smith's journey, his determination and skill promise thrilling matchups in the near future.
This week's mailbag is packed with hot topics in the boxing world! From discussions on drug testing to fighter pursuits and the state of the heavyweight division, we've got it all covered. Want to join the conversation? Drop a comment below and you might just see yourself featured in the next edition!
**Legalize PEDs in Boxing**
Claude Palle raises an interesting point about drug testing in boxing, suggesting that removing testing might create a more level playing field. Tris Dixon weighs in on the debate, highlighting concerns about health risks and the ethical implications of such a move. The issue of fairness in boxing remains a complex and challenging one.
**Caleb Plant's Quest for a Worthy Opponent**
BrankoB speculates on Caleb Plant's motivations for seeking a fight with Edgar Berlanga, hinting at the financial incentives. David Greisman emphasizes the importance of fighters striving to stand out in a competitive field, even in the absence of a mega payday against the likes of Canelo Alvarez.
**Derek Chisora's Fighting Future**
The debate over Derek Chisora's decision to continue fighting despite concerns for his health sparks mixed reactions. While some fans are eager for exciting matchups, others, like landotter, express worries about the toll on Chisora's well-being. Declan Warrington delves into the complexities of a fighter's career longevity and the potential risks involved.
**Assessing the Heavyweight Division**
BodyBagz boldly declares this era as the worst in heavyweight boxing history, but Declan Warrington challenges this claim, pointing out past eras with their own shortcomings. The current crop of heavyweight stars, including Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Oleksandr Usyk, are highlighted for their contributions to the sport.
**Praising George Kambosos**
George Kambosos Jr. garners both praise and criticism for his fighting spirit and willingness to take on tough opponents. Lucas Ketelle delves into Kambosos' career, acknowledging his underdog status and his penchant for stepping up to challenges, even if the outcomes have been mixed.
Have thoughts on these topics or others in the boxing world? Share your comments below, and you might just find yourself featured in our next mailbag edition!
In a dazzling display of skill and power, Oscar Collazo made waves in November by unifying the WBA and WBO strawweight world titles, culminating in a thrilling technical knockout victory over Knockout CP Freshmart.
The Puerto Rican sensation, just 27 years old, showcased his talent by dropping Freshmart three times before securing a seventh-round stoppage. Eric Gomez, the president of Golden Boy Promotions, couldn't contain his excitement, declaring Collazo as one of the most electrifying fighters in the sport. Gomez praised Collazo's exceptional boxing IQ, comparing him to the likes of Vasiliy Lomachenko for his footwork, combinations, counterpunching, and fight strategy.
With an impressive record of 11-0, including 8 knockouts, Collazo has made a name for himself in the boxing world. Since claiming the WBO belt in 2023 with a seventh-round TKO victory over Melvin Jerusalem, he has successfully defended his title four times, culminating in the recent unification triumph against Freshmart.
Gomez revealed that both current world champions have expressed interest in facing Collazo, recognizing his potential to become a star in the sport. With the unwavering support of his native Puerto Rico, Collazo has the backing of an entire island known for its rich boxing history. His appeal extends beyond the ring, with his fluency in English and Spanish endearing him to fans in Puerto Rico and beyond.
As Collazo's popularity continues to soar, Gomez sees him as the beacon of Puerto Rican boxing, poised to captivate audiences worldwide. With his name making headlines and his face gracing television screens daily, Collazo's star power is undeniable, paving the way for a bright future in the sport.
Renowned boxing journalist David Greisman, with years of experience covering the sport, recognizes Collazo's potential, highlighting his journey to stardom in the captivating world of boxing.
Get ready for a potential showdown in February as Arnold Barboza and Jack Catterall are on the brink of stepping into the ring together! The WBO is stirring things up by ordering these two fighters to start negotiations for a match that will determine the mandatory challenger at 140lbs for the current champion Teofimo Lopez.
With Golden Boy backing Barboza and Matchroom supporting Catterall, the clock is ticking as they have 20 days to agree on terms before the WBO takes it to purse bids. The heat is on as Barboza, sitting pretty at No. 1, and Catterall, close behind at No. 2, have already started a war of words on social media.
Barboza recently clinched a win against Jose Ramirez in Saudi Arabia, maintaining his undefeated record of 31-0 (11 KOs). On the other side, Catterall, a skilled southpaw hailing from the UK with a record of 30-1 (13 KOs), is riding high after significant victories over Josh Taylor and Regis Prograis.
The tension is palpable as Barboza challenges Catterall, saying, "I know you want top 10 only as well. We can get it on. Tell Eddie to call Oscar." Catterall fires back, "I know Frank Smith is talking to Eric Gomez. Let's see if you accept." The stakes are high, and the excitement is building for what could be an epic clash between these two talented fighters.
Get ready for a showdown as Stephen McKenna and Lee Cutler gear up for their Liverpool face-off on December 14! The tension is high as these two fighters exchange fiery words in the build-up to their clash.
McKenna boldly claims, "Cutler is an afraid fighter... I'm a real bad guy. I love to do damage in the ring, and I'm gunning for a knockout in under three rounds. Mark my words, this fight won't see the fourth round!"
Not one to back down, Cutler hits back, "I can box in multiple ways and beat Stevie at his own game. I'm ready to show him what I'm made of on December 14. This fight was a long time coming, and I'm eager to put on a show and come out on top."
With both fighters confident in their abilities, sparks are sure to fly when they step into the ring. Stay tuned for an electrifying match between these two determined warriors!
Caroline Dubois finds herself in a waiting game as she anticipates Katie Taylor's next move in the boxing world. With an impressive record of 10 wins, including 5 knockouts, Dubois is the leading contender for Taylor's WBC lightweight title. She may step into the ring again this year, possibly in Liverpool on December 14, holding the WBC's Interim title.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Dubois candidly shared her thoughts on the situation, stating, "It's unfortunate, but the ball's not in my court, it's in her [Taylor's] court and the WBC and Mauricio Sulaiman's court." She expressed her readiness to face Taylor, highlighting Taylor's prolonged absence from defending the 135lbs belt and her recent fight with Amanda Serrano in Texas. Dubois believes Taylor should either defend her title against her or vacate it, emphasizing, "Either way, I'm ready."
Dubois is set to make her case at the WBC convention in Hamburg, confident in her abilities to step up when Taylor, who has been competing in the junior welterweight division, decides to retire. The young boxer is determined to seize the opportunity and make her mark in the boxing world.
Get ready for a thrilling showdown as Mahmoud Charr defends his WBA regular heavyweight title against Kubrat Pulev! The clash is set to take place on December 7 at the Arena Sofia in Bulgaria, and you can catch all the action live on DAZN.
Charr, with a record of 34 wins, 4 losses, and 20 knockouts, hails from Syria but now calls Dubai his fighting home. Despite a two-year hiatus from the ring and only three fights in the last seven years, he is geared up to showcase his skills. His most recent victory came in a swift two-round triumph over Nuri Seferi in Hamburg back in December 2022.
On the other side of the ring, we have the 31-3 (14 KOs) challenger, Kubrat Pulev, a seasoned 43-year-old fighter. Pulev secured wins against Andrzej Wawrzyk in 2023 and Ihor Shevadzutskyi in March of this year, proving he's a force to be reckoned with. Currently ranked No. 7 by the WBA, Pulev is hungry for victory and ready to put on a show for fans worldwide!
Get ready for a night of electric energy as Troy Jones steps into the spotlight at Birmingham's Resorts World Arena to defend his English light heavyweight title. Surrounded by his cheering squad of friends, family, and now, the eyes of viewers worldwide, Jones is living the dream of every aspiring fighter – but he's far from complacent.
Under the mentorship of renowned trainer Lee Beard, Jones has been honing his skills and evolving his approach to the sport. Embracing a continuous learning mindset, Jones acknowledges that growth is a constant process. “I'm changing all the time... learning every day, learning defense all the time, and just learning how to be a proper boxer,” says Jones.
With Beard's guidance, Jones is striving to become a versatile "box of tricks" in the ring, adapting to any opponent's style. The evolving fighter recognizes the importance of adding layers to his game beyond just toughness, understanding that finesse and strategy are key to long-term success.
While Jones possesses an innate fighting spirit, he aims to minimize the toll on his body by relying more on refined boxing skills. “If there's money on the line, if I've got to do it and it's a fight, then I'll go to them trenches... But if I don't have to, I don't want to,” he emphasizes.
Jones's recent victory over a seasoned opponent showcased his ability to blend boxing finesse with gritty determination, proving his adaptability in the ring. As he gears up for his next challenge, Jones remains focused on executing Beard's game plan and leveraging his hard-earned skills for victory.
Approaching each fight with a grounded mindset, Jones shuns the pressure of grandiose predictions, choosing instead to let his dedication and training speak for themselves. “I don't put no pressure on myself... I'll get as far as I get,” Jones states confidently, trusting in his progress and the guidance he receives.
With a steadfast commitment to personal growth and a determination to make his mark in the ring, Troy Jones is a rising star in the boxing world, poised to leave a lasting impression on the sport.