Matchroom Boxing, the boxing promotion giant led by Eddie Hearn, has reportedly filed a lawsuit against Ben Shalom's upstart BOXXER and Sky Sports in the High Court, throwing the future of promising light-heavyweight Joshua Buatsi into the ring. The lawsuit centers around Buatsi's contract, with both Matchroom and BOXXER claiming conflicting rights to the talented fighter. Details of the lawsuit remain under wraps, but it appears to stem from Matchroom's claim that they exercised their matching rights on Buatsi, keeping him under their banner. However, Buatsi has publicly denied this, leaving the situation shrouded in legal uncertainty. Adding another layer of intrigue is the potential involvement of Mazhar Majeed, a controversial figure once banned from boxing for his role in a 2010 spot-fixing scandal. While Majeed is not officially named in the lawsuit, his presence in discussions between Buatsi and BOXXER executives while Buatsi was still under contract with Matchroom could raise eyebrows and potentially influence the court's decision. This legal battle has significant implications for Buatsi's career trajectory. At 28, he is considered one of the brightest prospects in light-heavyweight boxing, with a 16-0 record and a reputation for exciting, aggressive fighting. His next move will be crucial in shaping his future success. The lawsuit also marks a significant clash between Matchroom and BOXXER, two of the UK's leading boxing promoters. BOXXER, backed by Sky Sports, has been making waves in the industry with its aggressive acquisitions and ambitious plans. This lawsuit represents a major test for the young company, potentially hindering their momentum or solidifying their position as a challenger to Matchroom's dominance. With the case now in the hands of the High Court, the boxing world awaits a verdict that will determine Joshua Buatsi's next opponent and potentially reshape the landscape of British boxing. Stay tuned for further updates as this legal saga unfolds. #Matchroom #Boxing #BOXXER #SkySports #JoshuaBuatsi #MAzharMajeed

Eddie Hearn, the influential boxing promoter, has delivered a pivotal update on the highly anticipated rematch between Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington. Set for May 18 at a proposed UK stadium, Hearn confidently states, "Our side is done!" The UK has been witness to iconic boxing rivalries in recent years, and the upcoming Wood vs. Warrington showdown promises to be another thrilling chapter. Both fighters command passionate fan bases and proudly represent football clubs, Nottingham Forest and Leeds United, respectively. This rematch follows their intense clash in October, where Wood, trailing on all scorecards, staged a dramatic comeback with a knockout punch that prompted the referee to stop the fight. The controversy surrounding the match has heightened anticipation for this eagerly awaited sequel, where Wood aims to defend his WBA world featherweight title. Speaking on the MMA Hour, Hearn revealed, “May 18th is the proposed date. I’ve made it pretty clear, I want Wood against Warrington at the City Ground. We’re in talks with the club; they have a big concert the week after, so we’re just trying to get the logistics right. Not to put too much pressure on Nottingham Forest, we’ve got a fight ready to go, I believe May 18th, if we can get the deal done, we’re ready to make it happen.” Stay tuned for updates on this exciting rematch. #Boxing #WoodWarrington #Rematch #EddieHearn #NottinghamForest

After an action-packed 2023, former super middleweight champion Carl Froch has outlined the top five fights he would love to see in 2024. Last year we saw huge upsets, crossover fights between lineal champions and debutants, more than one undisputed title clash, and plenty of action out in Saudi Arabia. Speaking on his podcast about what he hopes to see this year, Froch began his wish list with his fifth choice. “Josh Taylor versus Jack Catterall. The first fight was very controversial, everyone watching thought Catterall did enough to become unified world champion but unfortunately for him, the judges saw it a different way.” His second pick was a controversial one. “Chris Eubank Jr versus Conor Benn. This one needs to be in the UK this year. It would be a shame if it went to Saudi because of the family history.” Froch then went with his fellow Nottingham man. De La Hoya Says Mayweather Can Teach Garcia Just One Thing: “Other Than That, F**k Off” “Leigh Wood fighting at the City Ground. Wood was getting beat by Josh Warrington, but he snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, as we do from Nottingham. “He showed a lot of toughness and got the knockdown win but I want to see it at the City Ground.” Next up was a trilogy. “Katie Taylor versus Chantelle Cameron. It’s one apiece. That would be a massive night for women’s boxing. I think Cameron would have to be the slight favorite. “She’s a very capable boxer, fast hands, good skills and I think Taylor is just past her best after lots of wars.” Top of his list was a huge heavyweight clash. “Anthony Joshua versus Tyson Fury. I think Usyk’s going to beat Fury in a close fight and I think Joshua will come through against Ngannou. But if Fury comes though, AJ versus Fury to get it on later this year is my numero uno.” There are indeed plenty of fights many fans would over to see on this list. #Boxing #CarlFroch #EubankBenn #CameronTaylor #CatterallTaylor #WoodWarrington #FuryJoshua

Just days before his highly anticipated light heavyweight title defense against Callum Smith, Artur Beterbiev's camp was rocked by atypical findings in his VADA testing. However, the World Boxing Council (WBC) has now cleared the undefeated champion, concluding that the findings did not constitute an adverse doping violation. The initial report on December 6th revealed atypical levels of human growth hormone (HGH) and 5b-androstanediol in Beterbiev's samples. While not a positive test, the findings raised concerns and prompted further investigation. The WBC, along with other sanctioning bodies and promoters, closely monitored the situation as VADA conducted additional tests. Thankfully, all subsequent samples, including those collected on December 15th, 21st, and January 3rd, yielded negative results. This, coupled with consistent testosterone levels throughout the testing period, led the WBC to declare: "Champion Beterbiev's testing protocol and results therein lead only to one conclusion: there are no adverse findings. In light of the testing measures taken and all results obtained, the WBC has not and will not take any adverse action in this matter." This official statement from the WBC provides Beterbiev and his fans with much-needed clarity and reassurance. The champion can now fully focus on his upcoming clash with Smith, aiming to unify the light heavyweight division and solidify his status as one of the most dominant fighters in the sport. However, the incident highlights the complexities of VADA testing and the potential for atypical findings to cause confusion and controversy. While the WBC's swift and thorough investigation ultimately cleared Beterbiev's name, this episode underscores the importance of transparency and continued efforts to improve the anti-doping system in boxing. #VADA #BeterbievSmith #ArturBeterbiev #boxing

Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn is betting big on his man, Anthony Joshua. Set to face Francis Ngannou in March, Hearn believes Joshua is on the fast track to becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion.   Joshua's recent victory against Otto Wallin showcased a return to form, silencing doubts about the former two-time world champion. Hearn, undeterred by Joshua's previous setbacks, sees a champion in the making.   As the heavyweight landscape gears up for Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk, with all titles on the line, Hearn remains unfazed. He doesn't care who wins, but a nod towards Fury hints at a potential showdown between British heavyweights.   Hearn draws confidence from Fury's lackluster performance against Ngannou, contrasting it with Joshua's dominant display. The question he poses to skeptics is clear: After Joshua's resurgence against Wallin and Fury's shaky bout, can you doubt AJ's chances against the Gypsy King?   Come February 17th, Hearn will be ringside, popcorn in hand, watching the Fury-Usyk showdown unfold. His prediction? Joshua will be the one to aggregate every major world title in the heavyweight division.   Eddie Hearn's confidence in Anthony Joshua's quest for heavyweight supremacy is palpable. The boxing world eagerly awaits the unfolding drama, with Hearn's prediction adding fuel to the already intense rivalry between Joshua and Fury.   #JoshuaFury #UndisputedChampion #HeavyweightShowdown #BoxingPredictions

The heavyweight boxing world is buzzing with anticipation for the ultimate showdown - Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk! And light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev just tossed his prediction into the ring, favoring Fury's power to overcome Usyk's skill. "I think Tyson Fury is going to win," Beterbiev declared. "There's a big difference between a heavyweight and a cruiserweight," he explained, referencing Usyk's past weight class. "It's all about who prepares well, but I think Fury's size and power will be too much in the end." Remember, Beterbiev knows a thing or two about knockouts. He's undefeated in his professional career, with all but one win coming by way of KO! So, his prediction carries weight, especially when it comes to underlining the potential impact of Fury's heavy fists. But Beterbiev also threw a curveball, adding, "Whoever shows up in the best shape will have the advantage." This leaves the door open for Usyk, known for his incredible stamina and technical prowess. If he can overcome Fury's size advantage with smart footwork and lightning-fast jabs, who knows what surprises might unfold on February 17th? So, there you have it, boxing fans! Beterbiev predicts a Fury victory, but with a crucial caveat - preparation is key. Will Fury's raw power reign supreme, or will Usyk's tactical brilliance upset the odds? Get ready to watch history unfold in the ring, and let the best fighter win! #ArturBeterbiev #FuryUsyk #Boxing

Promoter Bob Arum has launched a scathing attack on Eddie Hearn, defending Artur Beterbiev amidst controversy surrounding atypical test results for his upcoming title defense against Callum Smith.   In a recent interview, Arum blasted Hearn for making an "issue" out of Beterbiev's test results, stating that Hearn should be "ashamed of himself." Arum clarified that the atypical test result was later proven to be a result of hormones naturally produced by Beterbiev's own body.   Arum, the CEO of Top Rank, expressed disapproval of Hearn's approach, accusing him of attempting to discredit Beterbiev ahead of the fight. The upcoming bout, where Beterbiev will defend his IBF, WBC & WBO light heavyweight titles against Callum Smith, has been overshadowed by the testing controversy.   Despite Hearn's efforts, Arum emphasized that subsequent tests showed no prohibitive substances in Beterbiev's body, and the atypical result should not have been sensationalized. Arum questioned Hearn's focus, suggesting that he should be concerned about Smith's inactivity and opponent choices instead of creating negative publicity.   The controversy has escalated to the point where Hearn was barred from the press conference, a move Arum dismissed, emphasizing that the event is about the fighters, not the promoters. Arum reiterated that VADA, the testing experts, found no issues, and Hearn should consult with Margaret Goodman for clarification.   In response to Hearn's comments at the press conference, Arum described them as "ridiculous" and "despicable," urging anyone with doubts to contact Margaret Goodman for an accurate account of the situation. Arum emphasized that the atypical test result, indicating a small trace amount possibly naturally occurring in the body, should not have been blown out of proportion.   Arum concluded by stating that such controversies only tarnish the sport's image and that Eddie Hearn should be "ashamed of himself" for contributing to the negativity surrounding the upcoming Beterbiev vs. Smith bout.   #BeterbievvsSmith #BoxingControversy #ArumvsHearn #TestingIssues

In a recent development, Terence Crawford has shared a distressing update on the potential rematch with Errol Spence, leaving fans anxious about the future of this anticipated showdown.   The boxing world was taken by surprise in July 2023 when Crawford secured a dominant victory over Spence. The fight showcased Crawford's prowess, with Spence struggling to find his rhythm, ultimately leading to a ninth-round TKO loss for "The Truth."   While a rematch clause was in place, negotiations appear to have hit a standstill, prompting Crawford to move on from the prospect of facing Spence again. In a message on his X account, Crawford hinted at a shift in focus, raising questions about his next move.   The cause for concern amplifies as Spence, dealing with previous eye issues, disclosed a recent cataract surgery in a now-deleted Instagram Stories post. Despite these challenges, Spence has affirmed his commitment to continue boxing, dispelling retirement rumors.   The uncertainty surrounding Spence's health and Crawford's future choices looms large. If Spence overcomes his health hurdles, potential matchups await in the welterweight division. Meanwhile, Crawford faces pivotal decisions - does he target rising star Jaron "Boots" Ennis, contemplate a move to the junior middleweight division, or set his sights on a clash with boxing sensation Canelo Alvarez?   The boxing community awaits answers to these burning questions as the future paths of Crawford and Spence hang in the balance.   #CrawfordvsSpence #BoxingRematch #HealthConcerns #WelterweightDivision

In a recent statement, the PBA announced the suspension, attributing it to "clear violations of the PBA's rules and regulations," bringing boxing into disrepute, and, significantly, for the interest of boxer safety. This move comes just a week before the scheduled SERIES 012 card, putting the co-main event featuring Elle Brooke in jeopardy.   Misfits Boxing, launched in June 2021, has showcased events with notable names like Tommy Fury, Elle Brooke, Logan Paul, and founder KSI. The promotion's licenses were suspended due to a pattern of issues, including a prior overturn of KSI's knockout win against Joe Fournier for an illegal elbow strike.   In the aftermath of KSI's recent loss to Tommy Fury, where the result was changed due to scorecard errors, the PBA seems to have taken a firm stance on maintaining the integrity and safety of the sport. The suspension includes pending disciplinary hearings for the license holders.   There has been no official statement from Misfits Boxing, but the PBA's decision adds uncertainty to the scheduled event at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on January 20, headlined by TikTok star Ed Matthews.   Misfits Boxing's turbulent history, marked by rule violations and controversies, has seemingly caught up with them. The PBA's suspension underscores the importance of adhering to rules and ensuring the safety of the fighters in the ring.   #MisfitsBoxing #KSISuspension #BoxingSafety #PBAAction

In a highly anticipated light-heavyweight clash, Callum Smith and Artur Beterbiev have both hit the scales, ready to throw down in Canada. Despite a recent hiccup involving an 'atypical finding' in Beterbiev's drug test, the showdown is a go.   Beterbiev, boasting a 100% knockout record, stands as the heavy favorite. However, Smith, eyeing a potential bout against Dmitry Bivol, aims to upset the odds.   The pre-fight drama unfolded when Beterbiev's December drug test showed elevated levels of HGH and testosterone metabolite 5D-androstanediol. Follow-up tests, though, came back negative, and the fight got the green light.   In the final face-off before the bout, Beterbiev vehemently asserted his clean record, cautioning Smith against spreading misleading information. Smith's promoter, Eddie Hearn, exuded confidence, predicting a face-down knockout victory for his fighter.   The fight promises fireworks, with both warriors looking to make a statement in the ring. Beterbiev, the favorite, faces a determined Smith, eager to capitalize on any perceived slip in the Russian-Canadian's prowess.   As the Saturday night showdown looms, the narrative is set for a thrilling encounter that could reshape the light-heavyweight landscape. Will Beterbiev's knockout streak continue, or will Smith deliver the upset of the year?   Predicted Outcome: Smith by knockout.   #boxing #CallumSmith #ArturBeterbiev #EddieHearn #KnockoutConfidence

In an unexpected twist, Francis Ngannou, the rising star of the heavyweight division, is making headlines by expressing interest in facing the winner of the upcoming Tyson Fury versus Oleksandr Usyk bout. Despite having only one professional boxing match under his belt, Ngannou's reputation as the Baddest Man on the Planet in MMA has thrust him into the limelight. Ngannou's journey to the pinnacle of MMA included clinching the UFC heavyweight championship, thanks to his awe-inspiring punching power. Last October, he made a surprising switch to boxing, instantly making waves by sending Tyson Fury to the canvas in the third round of their clash in Riyadh. Although he ultimately lost by a split decision, Ngannou's stock soared to new heights. Currently gearing up for a showdown with Anthony Joshua on March 8 in Saudi Arabia, Ngannou has already started building anticipation with verbal jabs about his opponent's supposed weak chin. As Anthony Joshua eagerly awaits his shot at Fury, the heavyweight division is on the verge of crowning an undisputed champion, promising a riveting future for the sport. With Ngannou eyeing the winner of Fury-Usyk, the landscape of heavyweight boxing is set for an intriguing shift. As the potential dream matchups loom, fans can't help but wonder about the outcomes and the possibility of an undisputed champion facing Anthony Joshua. Stay tuned for more updates on Ngannou's bold aspirations and the unfolding drama in the quest for heavyweight supremacy. #NgannouDreamFight and #HeavyweightShowdown to join the excitement on social media.

In a thrilling turn of events, Jai Opetaia, the reigning Ring Magazine cruiserweight champion, is set to make waves once again as he steps into the ring for the third time in just five months. Brace yourselves for an electrifying performance, as Opetaia gears up for an unmissable showdown on the undercard of the much-anticipated Fury/Usyk clash next month. Opetaia, whose meteoric rise has captured the attention of fight fans worldwide, is not one to shy away from the action. This unprecedented frequency of fights underscores the champion's unwavering dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence in the ring. Having claimed the coveted Ring Magazine cruiserweight title, Opetaia is on a mission to solidify his status as a true force to be reckoned with in the boxing world. His inclusion in the Fury/Usyk undercard promises to add an extra layer of excitement to an already star-studded event. As Opetaia steps into the spotlight once again, fans can expect nothing short of a spectacle. His back-to-back performances showcase not only his exceptional skill but also his commitment to providing fight enthusiasts with edge-of-the-seat entertainment. Mark your calendars and get ready for a night of explosive action as Jai Opetaia takes center stage on the Fury/Usyk undercard. This is a golden opportunity for fans to witness a rising boxing sensation in the prime of his career, and Opetaia is set to deliver a performance that will be talked about for years to come. Don't miss out on the latest chapter of Opetaia's incredible journey. Stay tuned for updates on this blockbuster undercard event, and join the conversation using . #OpetaiaShowdown and #FuryUsykHype to share your excitement across social media platforms.

In an eagerly anticipated move, WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol has officially signed to face IBF, WBC & WBO champion Artur Beterbiev in a blockbuster undisputed championship bout set for Saudi Arabia in April or May. However, the much-anticipated matchup hinges on Beterbiev's success in defeating Callum Smith on January 13th, with the winner securing the golden ticket to face Bivol. Beterbiev, undefeated with a perfect record of 19-0 and 19 KOs, faces a formidable challenge in the shape of Callum Smith, a seasoned fighter with a record of 29-1 and 21 KOs. Eddie Hearn, Smith's promoter, has confirmed that if Smith emerges victorious, negotiations for a four-belt clash against Bivol will be on the table. The excitement is palpable as the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of the Beterbiev-Smith showdown. Eddie Hearn, in assessing the upcoming battle, pointed out Smith's boxing intelligence and one-punch knockout power as potential advantages. Smith's recent performances have showcased his power, but questions linger about his work rate and whether he can sustain it at the light heavyweight level. Hearn is optimistic about an upset potential, emphasizing that if Beterbiev makes mistakes, Smith has the capability to knock him out cold. As the Beterbiev-Smith fight approaches, Hearn acknowledges the wear and tear that accumulates over time in a fighter's career. He points to past bouts, like the Callum Johnson fight in 2018, to highlight potential vulnerabilities in Beterbiev's game. With Smith occupying a strategic position going into the clash, Hearn sees an opportunity for an upset and is eager to capitalize on it. The potential for an undisputed showdown between Bivol and Beterbiev adds an extra layer of excitement to the light heavyweight division. Fans and pundits alike will be closely watching the upcoming bouts, as the landscape of the division hangs in the balance. #Bivol #Beterbiev #CallumSmith #UndisputedShowdown #Boxing #EddieHearn #SaudiArabiaBout

Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather, two legendary boxers with a history of tension, are once again at odds, and it's all about De La Hoya's rising star, Ryan Garcia. The recent rift centers around Garcia's unexpected decision to change his opponent preference after a late-night run with Mayweather. The boxing world was shocked when Garcia, initially set to face Devin Haney, suddenly expressed interest in facing Roland Romero instead. In a fiery Instagram post, De La Hoya vented his frustration, accusing Mayweather of influencing Garcia's choice. The Golden Boy Promotions founder emphasized his longstanding relationship with Garcia and his commitment to making every fight a huge event. De La Hoya didn't mince words, telling Mayweather to "f— off" if he's still a promoter. The clash between De La Hoya and Mayweather extends beyond their boxing glory days; it's a battle for promotional supremacy. Garcia, with his immense popularity and drawing power, has become a coveted asset in the boxing world. Despite lacking the generational talent of his mentors, Garcia's ability to attract casual fans makes him a valuable commodity for any promoter. The tension between De La Hoya and Mayweather underscores the competitive nature of the boxing promotion business. Both legends have successfully transitioned from fighters to promoters, and Garcia's prominence adds another layer to their rivalry. It remains to be seen how this feud will impact Garcia's career and future fight choices. As the boxing world eagerly watches the drama unfold, one thing is clear – the clash between De La Hoya and Mayweather is far from over, and Garcia's next move will be closely scrutinized by fans and pundits alike. Stay tuned for more updates on this blockbuster feud! #OscarDeLaHoya #FloydMayweather #RyanGarcia #BoxingDrama #GoldenBoyPromotions #FightGameWar

Rising welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis boldly calls out unified champion Terence Crawford, declaring, 'You send it, I'll sign it.' The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as Ennis throws down the gauntlet, seeking a showdown with Crawford. The young contender's straightforward challenge has fans on the edge of their seats, eager to witness the potential clash of titans. Ennis, known for his explosive style, has set his sights on Crawford, and the boxing community is eagerly awaiting Crawford's response to this daring callout. Ennis's confidence and readiness to commit to the fight add an electrifying element to the welterweight division. Stay tuned for updates on this thrilling challenge that could reshape the landscape of boxing in 2024. #JaronEnnis #TerenceCrawford #Welterweight #BoxingChallenge #FightNight"

In the coming weeks, British light heavyweight, Anthony Yarde, is gearing up for a thrilling series of events that could shape his 2024 journey. Yarde, who previously went toe-to-toe with Artur Beterbiev, closely watches as Beterbiev defends his titles against Callum Smith in Quebec City. Meanwhile, Yarde's fellow countrymen, Dan Azeez and Joshua Buatsi, are set for a London derby, with implications for Yarde's future. Yarde himself is slated to showcase his skills on the undercard of the Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Liam Williams middleweight bout. Reflecting on his last bout with Beterbiev, Yarde sees himself as the top light heavyweight in Britain. However, he acknowledges Smith's credibility and believes the Liverpudlian has a strong chance of causing an upset. "Give Callum Smith his respect," Yarde asserts. "Top one and two is between me and Smith," he adds, emphasizing his honest opinion. Yarde rates his ability and courage above others in the division, including Buatsi and Azeez. Stay tuned as Yarde navigates through the twists and turns of the light heavyweight landscape, eyeing his own ascent in 2024. #AnthonyYarde #LightHeavyweight #CallumSmith #Boxing #FightNight"