British welterweight Conor Benn has decided to undergo VADA drug testing ahead of his Las Vegas fight on February 3, aiming to demonstrate his commitment to a clean record. This move comes after Benn faced two adverse findings in October 2022, preventing him from fighting in the UK. The British Boxing Board of Control's refusal to grant a license led to the cancellation of a bout with Chris Eubank Jr. on English soil. Benn's return to the US for his upcoming fight against Peter Dobson prompted him to rejoin the VADA testing program. VADA publicly welcomed Benn and Dobson to their program, acknowledging their participation in preparation for the February 3, 2024 bout in Las Vegas. Despite Benn's claim that contamination caused the previous positive results, some skepticism arose regarding the effectiveness of the testing process. Critics questioned its impact, expressing doubts such as, "What's the point cos they just ignore it [if they test positive]." Benn's decision to adhere to the testing protocol is viewed as a significant step in rebuilding his reputation. The lead-up to the Benn vs. Dobson fight is expected to draw attention, with Benn likely sharing images of the testing process initiated by VADA. However, the debate continues whether this will be enough to dispel lingering concerns about the unexplained previous findings, as believed by the British Boxing Board of Control. #boxing #ConorBenn #VADA #BBBofC #BennDobson #LasVegas

Promoter Eddie Hearn has announced that Joseph Parker's aspirations for a rematch with Anthony Joshua will have to be put on hold, as Joshua is now set to face former UFC star Francis Ngannou in a high-profile showdown in Saudi Arabia. The announcement comes after Ngannou's loss to Tyson Fury in October, marking his professional boxing debut.   Initially, Joshua, 34, was scheduled to face Deontay Wilder after a triumphant victory over Otto Wallin. However, Wilder's unexpected defeat to Parker derailed plans for their much-anticipated bout. Parker, expressing interest in a rematch with Joshua, will now have to wait for the outcome of the Ngannou clash.   Eddie Hearn took to social media to confirm the blockbuster fight, stating, "it's a done deal." The Joshua-Ngannou collision is set to unfold on a significant night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a potential date of March 9 mentioned. Hearn promised more details would be revealed at a press conference in London on January 15.   Ngannou, 37, born in Cameroon, gained recognition as the number 10 heavyweight by the WBC after his competitive performance against WBC heavyweight champion Fury, resulting in a controversial split decision loss in their Saudi Arabia bout.   The Saudi organizers had initially eyed a Joshua-Wilder bout for this year, but Wilder's decisive defeat by Parker on the same card as Joshua's win over Wallin altered those plans. Despite no signed contract, Joshua and Wilder were expected to announce a mega-fight post-fight, but the turn of events has shifted the spotlight to the impending Joshua-Ngannou clash.   In the broader heavyweight landscape, Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are set to fight for undisputed heavyweight supremacy on February 17 in Saudi Arabia. Fury, the WBC champion, will face Usyk, the WBA, WBO, and IBF belt holder, in a historic bout aiming to crown the first undisputed heavyweight champion since 1999.   #AnthonyJoshua #FrancisNgannou #JosephParker #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingShowdown #SportsNews      

Conor Benn, the 27-year-old boxer, is gearing up for his second fight since returning to the ring, but not without facing challenges. Benn, who twice tested positive for the banned drug clomifene, is determined to prove his innocence in the appeal process. In an emotional statement, Benn admits falling out of love with boxing post the drug test controversy. He emphasizes his commitment, stating, "I'm willing to spend every last penny I have to fight my innocence, that's how much this means to me." Benn's career hit a snag in October 2022 when his bout against Chris Eubank Jr. was canceled due to positive drug tests. The independent National Anti-Doping Panel lifted his provisional suspension, but an appeal has been lodged by the British Boxing Board of Control and UK Anti-Doping. Despite the turmoil, Benn now prepares for his upcoming fight against Peter Dobson on February 3 in Las Vegas. He shares the struggles of staying disciplined and determined amid demotivation and challenges, saying, "I know how hard it is to drag myself to the gym, fall out of love with boxing, and still have to stay disciplined." Reflecting on the impact on his family's name, Benn reveals the emotional toll the incident took on him, even leading to thoughts of suicide. He describes the shame and anxiety he experienced, especially during public appearances, stating, "That (affecting family reputation) was the worst thing to deal with, the shame." Benn, the son of former two-division world champion Nigel Benn, remains focused on his upcoming fight with Dobson. While dreaming of a UK homecoming, Benn acknowledges the importance of each bout, treating Dobson as a world title fight. Despite fighting outside the UK, Benn is eager to showcase his skills in America, particularly in Vegas, known as the home of boxing. The road to redemption and clearing his name continues for Conor Benn, who remains determined to overcome challenges and prove himself in the ring. #ConorBennn #BBBofC #boxing #boxingnews

Daniel Dubois is eyeing a path back to a world title shot after his impressive victory against Jarrell Miller. His trainer, Don Charles, revealed the desired opponent for Dubois' next fight, aiming to reclaim the WBA Regular belt he lost to Oleksandr Usyk. Charles mentioned Manuel Charr as the current holder of the WBA Regular belt, which Dubois previously held. In an exclusive interview with TalkSport, Daniel Dubois' trainer, Don Charles, has unveiled their strategic plan for the British boxer's return to the world title scene. After an impressive victory over Jarrell Miller, Dubois, and his team are eyeing a specific opponent to pave the way for a second world title shot. Charles expressed his desire for Dubois to reclaim the WBA Regular belt, a title the British boxer previously held before his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in his maiden world title challenge. The current WBA Regular Champion is Manuel Charr, who was awarded the belt without winning it in the ring, according to Charles. "I have already mentioned this name, but Manuel Charr is the current holder of the WBA Regular belt, which is the belt that Daniel Dubois had before he fought Usyk. To my surprise, the WBA took that belt off of Daniel Dubois and awarded it to Manuel Charr; he didn’t actually win it in the ring. Obviously, I have got to speak to Frank [Warren], but that is the fight that I would actually like for Daniel, to get that belt back," Charles stated, highlighting the need for discussions with promoter Frank Warren. Charr, who didn't compete in 2023, finds himself in a favorable position with the WBA, making him a potential contender for the world title. The winner of the Fury-Usyk bout will eventually have to face Charr or vacate the full WBA (Super) title. Despite the long wait for the WBA's mandatory call, Charr may opt to defend his belt against potential challengers. Having called out notable British heavyweights like Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Derek Chisora, Charr now faces the prospect of a showdown with 'Diamond Boy' Daniel Dubois. If all goes according to plan, this matchup could be the key to Dubois' journey back to championship glory, pending discussions with promoter Frank Warren. #boxing #DanielDubois #ManuelCharr #boxingnews

Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou, both with secured title shots on the horizon, have opted to face each other this spring. Joshua, recently named the WBN Comeback of the Year, aims to build on his successful 2023, highlighted by a knockout victory over Otto Wallin on 'Day of Reckoning' in Saudi Arabia.   Despite the fallout from a scrapped Deontay Wilder fight, Joshua's active and victorious year positioned him for significant opportunities. While a vacant IBF ruling could have set the stage for a summer showdown with Filip Hrgovic, Joshua has chosen the high-stakes clash with ex-UFC star Ngannou on March 8.   The upcoming event, spanning ten rounds, bears resemblance to the Tyson Fury vs. Ngannou show in October, where Ngannou made waves by putting Fury on the canvas. Initially expected to be a Fury rematch over the summer, Ngannou's decision to face Joshua in Riyadh adds a layer of unpredictability to the heavyweight narrative.   Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the bout, stating, "Tonight, we confirm it’s a Done Deal! Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou collide on a huge night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia." Further details will be unveiled in a press conference scheduled for January 15 in London.   However, the strategic move to pit Joshua against Ngannou poses significant risks for both fighters. If Ngannou pulls off an upset, Joshua risks losing his standing in the IBF pecking order, eliminating the opportunity to face Hrgovic for a vacant title.   Ngannou, despite earning a WBC ranking after a defeat, faces the precarious position of potentially losing his spot in the rating system with a second loss in boxing. Criticized by fans for a 0-1 ranking by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, Ngannou's eligibility to challenge Fury in a rematch is now in question, further adding intrigue to the already complex heavyweight scenario.   The strategic move to rank Ngannou was geared toward a coveted green and gold belt clash with Fury. However, a loss to the in-form Joshua could reshape the heavyweight landscape, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of this high-stakes showdown.   #AnthonyJoshua #FrancisNgannou #HeavyweightBoxing #TitleShot #RiyadhSeason #EddieHearn #SportsNews #HeavyweightShowdown

Terry Lane hints about a potential clash between Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang and former WBC champion Deontay Wilder. The news emerged following the announcement of Anthony Joshua facing Francis Ngannou on March 8, injecting some much-needed excitement into the sport after a slow start to the year.   Chris Mannix added fuel to the fire when he tweeted, "Zhilei Zhang, the Chinese heavyweight who scored back-to-back knockout wins over Joe Joyce last year, is expected to appear on the card. One fight that has been discussed: Zhang-Deontay Wilder."   To validate these rumblings, ProBoxTV reached out to Terry Lane, Zhang's advisor, for insights into the potential matchup. "I guess it’s kind of out there. Things are moving fast this afternoon," Lane responded. "Zhilei (Zhang) kind of rested up some wear and tear. He’s back in the gym now, and he would love to fight (Deontay) Wilder. We think it’ll be a great fight."   Zhang, at 40 years old, had a remarkable 2023, rebounding from a loss to Filip Hrgovic with two decisive victories over Joe Joyce. Lane highlighted Zhang's growing popularity, citing the astonishing 60 million viewers in China for Zhang's rematch with Joyce.   Lane emphasized that Zhang isn't shying away from challenges and clarified that the potential Wilder matchup stems from the unavailability of other big names in the heavyweight division. "With (Daniel) Dubois and (Joseph) Parker taking brakes right now, (Oleksandr) Usyk fighting (Tyson) Fury in February, and now Joshua vs. Ngannou in March, the next biggest fight to make in boxing is Zhang and Wilder," Lane explained.   While the prospect of a Zhang vs. Wilder showdown is tantalizing, Lane cautioned that negotiations must be navigated carefully, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the business side of boxing. If the Saudi organizers are committed to making the fight a reality, it could potentially add another blockbuster bout to the already intriguing 2024 boxing landscape.   #ZhileiZhang #DeontayWilder #Boxing2024 #BoxingRumors #TerryLane #HeavyweightClash #SportsNews

As the highly anticipated undisputed heavyweight world title clash between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk approaches, speculation arises regarding Fury's commitment to the bout. The scheduled fight is just six weeks away, set to take place in Saudi Arabia on February 17th, yet former champion Shawn Porter is skeptical about it materializing.   Despite the fight being officially signed, sealed, and delivered, Porter questions Fury's enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge. In an interview with ProBox TV, Porter expressed his doubts, stating, "Even with the fight being signed sealed and delivered, I don’t feel like this is the kind of energy that he wants to exert any more in the boxing ring."   Porter continued to analyze Fury's mindset, pointing out the wear and tear a seasoned fighter like Fury might feel. "What we know about Tyson Fury is that he is a showman, what we know about Tyson Fury is that he likes things to be his way or no way," Porter remarked. He highlighted Fury's pursuit of lucrative and high-profile matchups, such as his bout against Francis Ngannou, as indicative of Fury's preferences at this stage of his career.   Fury's recent actions, including a trip to Saudi Arabia for training and a subsequent video that appeared to be filmed in England, have fueled speculation about his readiness for the upcoming fight. Meanwhile, Usyk has maintained a low profile in recent weeks, with Fury continuing to engage in verbal jabs at the Ukrainian.   In a recent social media post, Fury taunted Usyk, saying, "Another big day of running in the f**ng mountains! Come on! Easy work, smashing Usyk's little rabbit face right in for him. Useless piece of s*," accompanied by the hashtag "run rabbit run" and a caption suggesting preparation for the undisputed heavyweight championship in 2024.   The uncertainty surrounding Tyson Fury's commitment adds intrigue to the build-up of this high-stakes matchup, leaving fans and pundits alike eager to see how the narrative unfolds in the weeks leading up to the bout.   #TysonFury #OleksandrUsyk #UndisputedFight #ShawnPorter #BoxingSpeculation #HeavyweightBoxing #SportsNews2024  

In a recent development, Zhilei Zhang, the WBO Interim heavyweight champion, has expanded his hitlist by targeting a former world champion. Confident in his abilities, Zhang expressed, "Everyone thinks he's good," hinting at his eagerness to face another notable figure in the heavyweight division.   Having secured two victories against Joe Joyce in 2023 and establishing himself as a legitimate threat in the division, Zhang has set his sights on the biggest names, including Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. Winning Joyce's interim belt and mandatory position, Zhang appears poised for a shot at the victor of the upcoming Fury-Usyk clash.   Rather than resting on his laurels, 'Big Bang' Zhang is actively seeking opportunities and has expressed a willingness to feature on the Fury-Usyk undercard. His hitlist already includes names like Daniel Dubois, Efe Ajagba, Francis Ngannou, and now, a former world champion.   As the anticipation builds around Zhang's pursuit of greatness, the Chinese heavyweight's confidence and determination to face the best in the division make him a compelling figure in the ever-exciting world of heavyweight boxing.   #ZhileiZhang #HeavyweightBoxing #FuryUsyk #JosephParker #BoxingScene #WBOChampion #SportsNews

Get ready for a heavyweight spectacle as Anthony Joshua gears up to face off against former UFC champ Francis Ngannou in a 10-round battle set to take place in Saudi Arabia this March. The news comes hot on the heels of Joshua's dominant win over Otto Wallin in December, and it's a matchup that has fight fans buzzing.   Originally slated to go up against Deontay Wilder, Joshua had to change plans after Wilder's unexpected loss to Joseph Parker. Now, the British boxing sensation is locked in for a clash with Ngannou, who made waves in the boxing world by giving Tyson Fury a run for his money in a closely contested bout.   MMA correspondent Ariel Helwani dropped the bombshell on social media, confirming the fight and hyping up fans. Ngannou, a former UFC heavyweight champion, is making his second appearance in professional boxing, and the fact that he's ranked No. 10 by the WBC adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.   Eddie Hearn, the man in the know when it comes to boxing promotions, chimed in, confirming the bout and teasing a press conference in London on January 15 where we'll get all the juicy details.   Joshua, coming off a stellar performance against Wallin, is eager to climb back to the top of the heavyweight division. However, he's got his work cut out for him against Ngannou, who left the UFC in 2023 after contract disputes and is now focused on making a name for himself in the boxing ring.   The fight promises excitement, with Joshua's explosive style against Ngannou's raw power. If Joshua comes out on top, the boxing world is set for another treat as he eyes the winner of the Usyk vs. Fury bout in Saudi Arabia on February 17.   So, mark your calendars for March, folks. The clash between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou is shaping up to be a heavyweight showdown for the books. Get ready for a night of thrilling punches and jaw-dropping action under the Saudi Arabian lights. It's a 'can't miss' for fight fans worldwide!   #AnthonyJoshua #FrancisNgannou #eddiehearn #boxing #boxingnews #JoshuaNgannou  

Former boxing heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis criticized Anthony Joshua's recent victory over Otto Wallin, stating that Joshua gained nothing from fighting an opponent he deemed lacking in skills and definition. Lewis expressed disappointment, believing that Joshua should strive for more challenging opponents instead of opting for what he termed as "gimme fights." According to Lewis, Joshua's recent matches against Franklin and Helenius, including the victory over Wallin, don't contribute significantly to proving his skills. Lewis emphasized that Joshua should aim for more formidable opponents to validate his return to top form and enhance his reputation in the sport. Lewis proposed Zhilei Zhang as an ideal adversary for Joshua, highlighting Zhang's impressive performances, particularly his victories over Joe Joyce. He urged Joshua to seek challenging opponents who could elevate his status and credibility in the heavyweight division. The boxing icon expressed concern that Joshua is currently facing opponents on the rise rather than established contenders, stating that Joshua should have been contending for championships earlier. Lewis emphasized the importance of Joshua facing opponents who could truly test and propel his career forward. Apart from Zhang, Joshua could potentially contend for a vacant world title shot against Filip Hrgovic, the IBF's top contender, depending on the outcome of Tyson Fury's undisputed fight with Oleksandr Usyk. This option could provide Joshua with an opportunity to compete at a higher level and regain his stature in the division. #LennoxLewis #AnthonyJoshua #BoxingCritique #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingLegends #BoxingChampionships

In a thrilling race for supremacy on the pound-for-pound rankings in 2023, Naoya Inoue surged past Terence Crawford to claim the coveted No. 1 spot, capping off a year of exceptional performances in the ring. The competition for the top boxer of the year intensified, with contenders like David Benavidez and Devin Haney making remarkable strides, yet Inoue and Crawford emerged as the frontrunners. For Inoue, a four-division champion, to clinch the P4P throne after unifying titles in the bantamweight and junior featherweight divisions within a year speaks volumes of his unparalleled achievements. His dominance over previously unbeaten Stephen Fulton Jr. and Filipino slugger Marlon Tapales showcased his prowess in the ring, solidifying his place among boxing's elite. However, Crawford's monumental victory against Errol Spence Jr. catapulted him briefly into the top spot, affirming his status as an undisputed welterweight champion. The spellbinding display against Spence underscored Crawford's exceptional talent, positioning him as a formidable force in the boxing world. Comparing Inoue and Crawford reflects a battle between equals; both exhibited exceptional performances. While Crawford's victory against Spence in a long-awaited showdown was monumental, Inoue's dominance in two weight divisions within a year earned him the edge in the rankings. Inoue's rare combination of speed, technique, and athletic explosiveness propelled him to victory, showcasing his relentless pursuit of boxing excellence. At 30, Inoue continues to carve his legacy as a generational talent, adding to his already illustrious career. The updated Pound for Pound rankings after Inoue's December triumph places him at the summit, reclaiming the No. 1 spot, while Crawford secures the second position. As the boxing world eagerly anticipates the unfolding drama in 2024, the rivalry between Inoue and Crawford promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. #NaoyaInoue #TerenceCrawford #BoxingP4P #BoxingLegends #P4PRankings #BoxingChampions

Last week, boxing coach Calvin Ford was arrested in Baltimore over an alleged warrant related to assault charges in Las Vegas, as reported by various outlets, including CBS News. The arrest is connected to purported aggravated assault and assault with a deadly weapon charges from February 2023. However, despite widespread coverage, there's no substantiated documentation supporting these claims. Ford, renowned for his work with Abdul Wahid (formerly Gervonta Davis), has been a celebrated figure in boxing. His training partner, Kenny Ellis, stepped forward to address the allegations, shedding light on the incident surrounding Ford's arrest. Ellis recounted the events, highlighting that he and Ford were leaving a Baltimore gym when law enforcement surrounded Ford. Per Ellis, the police mentioned serious felony charges from Las Vegas, leaving both bewildered as they couldn't recall any confrontations during their visits to the city. As the situation unfolded, Ford was taken into custody, leading to the revelation that the charges stemmed from a February 2023 incident, despite the warrant only being issued in October. Ellis refuted claims of assault with a deadly weapon, stating it was a fabrication by media outlets, clarifying that Ford didn't have a weapon on his person during their travels. Ellis provided his version of events, disputing the alleged assault accusations. According to him, a verbal exchange and monetary transaction occurred between Ford and two individuals, which Ellis believed led to the false charges, speculating that the complainants sought more money than what was initially exchanged. Details regarding the monetary exchange remain undisclosed as the case awaits legal proceedings. Ford is slated to be transferred to Las Vegas for the impending court date, with ongoing monitoring by ProBoxTV for updates on this evolving story. #CalvinFord #BoxingCoachArrest #AssaultAllegations #FabricatedStory #LegalProceedings #ProBoxTVUpdates

In a shocking turn of events, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., former boxer, has ignited controversy with scathing allegations against his father, legendary Mexican boxer Julio Cesar Chavez. Chavez Jr. took to social media, posting a series of videos where he condemned his father, labeling him as "trash" and demanding his imprisonment. The root of the public dispute seemed to stem from Chavez Sr.'s recent social media post expressing a desire for his son to cease speaking what he termed as "nonsense." In response, Chavez Jr., who has faced reported struggles with drug addiction, accused his father of forcibly confining him to a treatment facility, alleging he was held against his will for three years. The accusations didn't stop there. Chavez Jr. went on to claim that his father had subjected his mother, Amalia Carrasco, to physical abuse throughout their relationship, leaving her traumatized. He further asserted that his own life had been in danger due to his father's actions. This public feud unveils a turbulent family dynamic, with both father and son battling their own personal demons. Chavez Jr.'s recent admission to a psychiatric ward late last year and his father's prior battles with addiction add layers of complexity to this distressing situation. Chavez Sr. has openly discussed his regrets concerning his sons and their struggles, citing his own past as a backdrop. The boxing legend expressed sympathy for his son's situation, acknowledging the difficulties his own addiction battles have caused in his family life. Amidst these disturbing revelations, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.'s accusations shed light on a tumultuous family history, raising concerns about the well-being of both father and son beyond their celebrated boxing legacies. #JulioCesarChavezJr #ChavezFamilyDrama #BoxingLegend #FamilyFeud #AbuseAllegations #AddictionStruggles

Shakur Stevenson, the rising star in boxing, is eager for a monumental matchup against Emanuel Navarrete, aiming to showcase a USA vs. Mexico showdown in the ring. Stevenson, known for his preference to face young and undefeated opponents, expressed his disdain for taking on faded contenders in the sport, highlighting his desire for challenging and meaningful fights. In Stevenson's recent outing against Edwin De Los Santos, despite securing the win, he faced unexpected resistance, labeling it as one of his toughest nights yet. However, with De Los Santos now behind him, Stevenson is eyeing seasoned opponents. While Vasiliy Lomachenko remains his preferred choice, Stevenson has also been linked to a potential bout against Navarrete. Navarrete, the current WBO super featherweight champion, faced a disappointing draw against Robson Conceicao towards the end of the previous year. This outcome somewhat dimmed the prospects of a Stevenson-Navarrete showdown initially planned by Top Rank, the promotional banner under which both fighters compete. Despite the draw, Stevenson views a clash against a respected boxer like Navarrete as a pivotal step forward. With limited options and a desire to elevate his career, Stevenson is actively pushing for a high-stakes showdown with Navarrete, emphasizing the USA vs. Mexico narrative to add further intrigue to the potential matchup. As Stevenson advocates for the involvement of WBC and WBO in organizing the fight, he stands firm in his resolve not to take the easy route. With numerous contenders eyeing significant bouts, Stevenson believes that a showdown with Navarrete could be his pathway to the grand stage, signaling his readiness to take on top-tier opposition and make a resounding statement in the boxing world. #ShakurStevenson #EmanuelNavarrete #BoxingShowdown #USAvsMexico #WBC #WBO #BoxingChampionship

Undefeated knockout sensation Vergil Ortiz, Jr. and Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson faced off at the final press conference ahead of their highly anticipated 12-round super welterweight battle set to unfold at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The clash between these formidable fighters is slated to captivate audiences worldwide, streamed live on DAZN. Ortiz, exuding confidence, left no room for uncertainty, urging fans to secure their tickets without hesitation. Emphasizing his dedication and commitment to the sport, Ortiz affirmed his readiness for the impending showdown, asserting that he's currently at the peak of his abilities and feeling better than ever before. On the other side, Lawson exuded a quiet determination, hinting at a meticulous preparation for the event. Expressing satisfaction with the training camp, Lawson hinted at an unexpected strategy, promising surprises for fight night. With confidence in their plan, Lawson's camp is eager to defy expectations come Saturday. The tension and anticipation are palpable as fight night approaches, with both Ortiz and Lawson showcasing contrasting yet equally compelling mindsets. Ortiz’s unwavering confidence and Lawson’s intriguing hints of an unconventional approach have fueled speculation and excitement among fans and pundits alike. With the spotlight firmly on this electrifying matchup, the boxing world eagerly awaits the moment when these two warriors step into the ring to settle the score. As the countdown to Saturday's clash continues, anticipation grows for what promises to be an exhilarating battle between Ortiz and Lawson. #OrtizvsLawson #SuperWelterweight #VegasShowdown #BoxingClash #DAZN #FightNightPreview

Floyd Mayweather Jr recently stirred up the boxing world with his picks for today's biggest stars in the sport. During an interview alongside rising talent Ryan Garcia, Mayweather named just three fighters, leaving many notable names off the list. His choices, while sparking discussion, also came with a lesson on what truly defines a superstar in the ring. In the spotlight with Garcia at a Las Vegas mall, Mayweather highlighted the current stars as per his view, emphasizing the misconception among fighters equating belts and earnings to stardom. According to 'Money' Mayweather, being a true superstar extends beyond achievements; it's about a comprehensive skill set both inside and outside the ring. Reflecting on his enduring relevance even after three decades, Mayweather emphasized the multifaceted nature of creating a household name. The boxing legend's comments touched a nerve among fans and enthusiasts. While acknowledging the chosen three, many questioned the omission of other prominent names in the sport, advocating for recognition of their favorites. Mayweather's words underscored the importance of not just accomplishments but also the art of public persona and communication in shaping a boxer's legacy. Mayweather's statement has reignited debates across social media platforms, with fans expressing diverse opinions on the criteria for defining a boxing superstar. The discussion has once again put the spotlight on what truly encapsulates stardom in the ever-evolving landscape of professional boxing #Mayweather #BoxingSuperstars #BoxingLegacy #SportsDebate #RyanGarcia  

WBO Interim Heavyweight Champion Zhilei Zhang has launched scathing remarks against former opponent Filip Hrgovic, alleging that the Croatian boxer secured a win through referee assistance and has a history of employing illegal tactics. Zhang's knockout victories against Joe Joyce propelled him into a mandatory challenger position, eyeing a shot at world honors and establishing himself as a formidable threat within the rankings. However, the IBF's mandate puts Zhang's aspirations on hold, with Hrgovic, the sole fighter to defeat Zhang professionally, positioned to face the winner of Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk or Anthony Joshua for the vacant title. In an interview with Fight Hype, Zhang criticized his defeat against Hrgovic, deeming it a gift facilitated by the referee. He pointed to Hrgovic's subsequent fights, labeling them as lower-level bouts taken to safeguard his mandatory position, alleging Hrgovic resorted to illegal tactics by targeting the back of his opponents' heads. Zhang reiterated his accusations against Hrgovic, branding him a habitual offender for hitting opponents on the back of their heads in every fight, emphasizing instances against Demsey McKean and Mark De Mori. The contentious history between Zhang and Hrgovic appears to have intensified, evident in Zhang's bold claims regarding his rival's fighting style. Seeking to solidify his quest for a world title shot within the next twelve-to-eighteen months, Zhang has expressed readiness to fight on the Fury-Usyk undercard, underscoring his determination and preparation for an impending championship challenge. #ZhileiZhang #FilipHrgovic #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingControversy #BoxingNews #WorldTitle #FighterAccusations #BoxingChampion #BoxingUndercard

Floyd Mayweather and Ryan Garcia have announced an extension of their collaboration into 2024, with recent footage capturing the duo training together in Las Vegas. The video, shared by Inside Fighting's Andrew Capucetti, showcases the Hall of Famer and Garcia engaged in late-night training sessions, highlighting their camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for the sport. Garcia, known for his rapid hands, explosive fighting style, and substantial social media following, remains one of boxing's most prominent figures. In 2023, his bout against Gervonta Davis became the best-selling combat sports event of the year, despite Garcia facing defeat due to a body shot in the seventh round. However, he redeemed himself with an eighth-round knockout victory over Oscar Duarte later in the year. While Garcia is affiliated with Golden Boy Promotions, with a reported 1-2 years remaining on his contract, public disagreements between the fighter and Oscar de la Hoya, the founder of Golden Boy Promotions, have surfaced. Mayweather expressed interest in working with Garcia under his promotions, expressing admiration for Garcia's talent and hinting at a potential collaboration should Garcia become a free agent. Despite Mayweather's open stance, he clarified the importance of contractual obligations and avoiding legal disputes. Garcia's social media interactions further fueled speculation about his future moves, with discussions linking him to Devin Haney, the 25-year-old super lightweight champion following his recent WBC title win over Regis Prograis. Haney, seemingly undeterred by Garcia's association with Mayweather, engaged in a private message exchange, asserting independence from Mayweather's influence. As Garcia's next move in the boxing world remains uncertain, the collaboration extension with Mayweather hints at potential shifts in Garcia's career trajectory, raising curiosity among fans and pundits about the rising star's future choices. #Mayweather #RyanGarcia #BoxingTraining #BoxingNews #FighterBond #BoxingCareer #MayweatherPromotions #GoldenBoyPromotions #DevinHaney #BoxingChampion

Heavyweight boxer Martin Bakole faced severe backlash after threatening critics and canceling his GoFundMe campaign, which aimed to support his pursuit of becoming a heavyweight champion. Bakole's request for £100,000 through GoFundMe was initiated after allegedly being denied further funds by the Congolese Government. Reports suggest the government's refusal stemmed from Bakole's previous use of a similar amount for an event that never materialized. The situation escalated when news sources in Congo indicated that Bakole was contemplating withdrawing the GoFundMe campaign due to public outcry, with some demanding repayment of the £100,000 owed to the government for the unrealized event. Responding to the criticism, Bakole issued threats in a live social media video, warning those opposing his fundraising efforts. In the video, Bakole's remarks indicated a readiness to confront individuals who had criticized him. His statements implied potential confrontations upon his return to Kinshasa, challenging critics to insult him face-to-face. The controversy surrounding Bakole's GoFundMe campaign raised doubts initially, with speculation of a possible hacking incident due to the unusual nature of a professional athlete seeking funds after participating in high-profile events like the Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou undercard in Saudi Arabia. Bakole's request for financial assistance despite his standing as a top-ranked WBA heavyweight stirred confusion and skepticism among fans and observers. The juxtaposition of a highly ranked athlete seeking external financial aid sparked controversy and drew attention to the circumstances surrounding Bakole's funding plea, leading to widespread criticism and debate within the boxing community. #MartinBakole #BoxingControversy #GoFundMe #HeavyweightBoxing #BoxingNews #AthleteBacklash #FighterThreats #AthleteFundraising

Tyson Fury has assured boxing fans that his much-anticipated clash against Oleksandr Usyk is set to unfold on February 17 without any further delays. The reigning WBC and Lineal Champion is gearing up to defend his titles against Usyk, the unified WBO, IBF, and WBA champion, in a historic battle set to take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Riyadh Season. The fight, originally postponed for two months, promises to crown boxing's first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis held multiple titles back in 1999. Fury's determination to avoid another postponement underscores the significance of this encounter, with both fighters vying for supremacy in the division. Fury's recent involvement in Riyadh Season, where he faced MMA star Francis Ngannou and secured a narrow victory, adds fuel to the anticipation surrounding this bout. Termed 'Ring of Fire,' the Fury vs. Usyk clash is expected to reignite interest in the heavyweight division, drawing attention from boxing enthusiasts worldwide. The buildup to the fight has witnessed talk of Fury's alleged reluctance or fear, which the champion vehemently dismisses. Fury adamantly declares the fight is on, with a direct challenge to Usyk and his team, asserting that any potential withdrawal would not come from his side. Despite a previous postponement and acknowledgment of Fury's prior withdrawal, the assurance from Fury's promoter adds weight to the commitment of delivering this highly anticipated showdown, raising the stakes for both fighters as they prepare to make boxing history. #TysonFury #OleksandrUsyk #BoxingChampionship #HeavyweightBoxing #FuryvsUsyk #BoxingNews #FightNight #UndisputedChampion