Murat Gassiev left Dubai with more than a career-lifting win. He claimed the WBA Regular heavyweight title with a decisive sixth-round knockout that immediately reshaped his position in the heavyweight division. In a measured contest defined by subtle adjustments rather than extended exchanges, Gassiev located the single opening he had been working toward, ending Pulev’s night with a precise left hook. Main Event Analysis Early Rounds The opening rounds followed a controlled rhythm. Pulev used his height and reach to manage distance and pace, relying on his jab and experience to maintain a methodical tempo. Gassiev advanced steadily, focusing on closing space incrementally and probing for openings rather than throwing wide combinations. Mid-Fight Adjustments As the contest progressed, Gassiev began slipping Pulev’s jab with greater consistency while targeting the body at key moments. These adjustments disrupted Pulev’s control and gradually shifted the momentum in Gassiev’s favor. By the midpoint of the fight, the challenger had established the timing and range needed for a decisive strike. Decisive Sixth Round In the sixth round, Gassiev found the opening. As Pulev moved forward behind a probing jab, Gassiev delivered a short left hook with perfect timing. The shot landed flush, and Pulev could not recover, resulting in a knockout. Gassiev was a round behind on the WBN Scorecard at the time. Nonetheless, this efficient finish reinforced Gassiev’s reputation as a heavy-handed threat in the division. — World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) December 12, 2025 Implications for the Heavyweight Division While the WBA Regular title is not the undisputed crown, it places Gassiev in a position of influence and mandatory obligations. Rising contender Moses Itauma now stands directly in his developmental path, creating a potential high-stakes matchup between youth and established power. Looking further ahead, Gassiev’s elevated status opens the possibility of a heavyweight rematch with Oleksandr Usyk. Their previous cruiserweight encounter was a defining career moment, and a future heavyweight clash would present a drastically different challenge. Gassiev has reaffirmed his power as one of the division’s most decisive weapons, capable of altering the course of a fight with a single well-timed punch. His presence now demands strategic respect from both emerging prospects and seasoned contenders. Main Event Result Murat Gassiev def. Kubrat Pulev — KO 6 Gassiev claims the WBA Regular heavyweight title. Undercard Highlights Bakhodur Usmonov edged Maxi Hughes over twelve competitive rounds to strengthen his position in the lightweight title picture. Daud Alaev earned a retirement victory over Dave Penalosa after six rounds. Faizan Anwar extended his unbeaten record to 21-0 with a composed performance at welterweight. Nico Ali Walsh secured a six-round unanimous decision against Jeremiah Sserwadda. Vadim Musaev registered a third-round stoppage of Tulani Mbenge, including knockdowns in the second and third rounds, moving to 14-0. Khariton Agrba dominated Ruben Munoz over twelve rounds, sweeping the scorecards 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111. Yoel Finol repeated his win over Shakhobidin Zoirov in another spirited, high-tempo contest. Estelle Mossely opened the night with a victory, followed by heavyweight Artem Suslenkov, who stopped Stanley Wright in six rounds. Looking Ahead Gassiev’s victory positions him directly in line for mandatory responsibilities, including a potential matchup with Moses Itauma. Long-term, the prospect of a heavyweight rematch with Oleksandr Usyk looms, further underscoring the strategic significance of his new WBA Regular heavyweight title. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

World Boxing News offers live coverage as Dubai’s Duty Free Tennis Stadium hosts IBA Pro 13, featuring Kubrat Pulev vs Murat Gassiev in the main event. A stacked card of heavyweight, welterweight, and international title bouts is on offer as Pulev defends his WBA Regular heavyweight title against Gassiev, streamed live on DAZN. WBN delivers round-by-round scoring, result updates, and the official main event scorecard as the action unfolds. Pulev vs Gassiev Live Results Results will appear here upon conclusion of each bout. Live Scorecard The Pulev vs Gassiev scorecard will refresh every 2 minutes during the live event. Remaining Bouts – IBA Pro 13 Kubrat Pulev vs Murat Gassiev | Heavyweight 12 TBD Bakhodur Usmonov vs Maxi Hughes | Light 12 TBD Vadim Musaev vs Tulani Mbenge | Welter 12 TBD Khariton Agrba vs Ruben Nestor Neri Munoz | Super Light 12 TBD Faizan Anwar vs Khuseyn Baysangurov | Welter 10 TBD Dave Penalosa vs Daud Alaev | Light 10 TBD Yoel Finol vs Shakhobidin Zoirov | Minimum 10 TBD Stanley Wright vs Artem Suslenkov | Heavy 8 TBD Samuel Carmona vs Immanuel Josef | Bantam 8 TBD Estelle Mossely vs Ellen Simwaka | Light 2 TBD Nico Ali Walsh vs Jeremiah Sserwadda | Middle 6 TBD David Dzukaev vs Madiyar Saydrakhimov | TBD 6 TBD Main Event Preview – Pulev vs Gassiev Kubrat Pulev brings decades of experience, a sharp jab, and veteran ring intelligence, making him a dangerous opponent at range. Murat Gassiev counters with explosive power, aggression, and a strong inside game. Expect a tactical chess match underpinned by heavy leather, with Pulev aiming to control distance and tempo, while Gassiev looks to break through with sudden bursts. This heavyweight showdown could be close, with every round likely to swing on key exchanges and momentum shifts. How to Watch DAZN Live: 9 pm UAE Main event ring walks: approx 10:30 pm UAE Follow WBN for round-by-round scoring and live updates for Pulev vs Gassiev and the full IBA Pro 13 card. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Round 12, Tyson Fury on the canvas. Deontay Wilder’s right hand almost rewrote heavyweight history — and in 2026, he gets one final chance to finish the job. Wilder’s opportunity arises amid critics who argue he never built a truly great résumé despite 43 KOs from 44 wins. Supporters fire back with ten WBC title defenses, five years as champion, and a highlight-reel collection of the most violent knockouts of the century. What’s undeniable is this: Wilder is one of the most captivating, destructive punchers since Mike Tyson — a showstopper who turned fight nights into global events. ‘The Bronze Bomber’ knocked out all 32 of his opponents until a world title shot, yet the defining victory that ends all arguments still eludes him. In 2026, Wilder gets one more chance to add that missing chapter. Deontay Wilder: Legacy Under Fire Wilder held the WBC heavyweight title from 2015 to 2020, defending it ten times — the second-longest WBC heavyweight title run of the four-belt era. Still, he lived under constant pressure to “step up,” with calls for a unification against Anthony Joshua echoing around the division. Negotiations collapsed, accusations flew, and the rivalry never materialized in the ring. Instead, Wilder eventually secured the other mega-fight of that era: Tyson Fury. Over three unforgettable bouts, Wilder produced several knockdowns that will live forever. Those 36 rounds, including an iconic round-12 right hand in their first fight, looked like they had rendered Fury unconscious. Fury rose, history shifted, and Wilder ultimately left the trilogy without a win. But Wilder still emerged with a legend: the most dangerous punch in heavyweight boxing. Why Wilder Still Matters Despite the defeats, many — including WBN — believe Wilder will enter the International Boxing Hall of Fame: longevity, knockouts, and global impact matter. And Wilder delivered all three. His KO of Artur Szpilka in 2016 remains one of the most brutal heavyweight finishes ever captured on live broadcast. His one-punch erasure of Luis Ortiz in 2019 came against an undefeated, avoided contender. Even Fury, a future Hall of Famer himself, required supernatural recuperation to avoid defeat. Yet the “career-defining win” against a fellow elite champion never arrived. 2026 is the final window — the last swing at rewriting his story. Usyk: Wilder’s Last Golden Ticket Oleksandr Usyk, the master craftsman of the heavyweight division and the only unified champion to conquer both cruiserweight and heavyweight in the four-belt era, has called out the American, setting the stage for his biggest potential matchup, Usyk vs Wilder. Usyk enters the Wilder negotiations after compiling one of the most complete championship résumés of the 21st century. And because of Usyk’s dominance, this is realistically Wilder’s final chance at three-belt glory. Power fading? Possibly. Timing diminishing? Maybe. But heavyweights don’t age like lightweights, and Wilder will always have the nuclear option. If he lands clean, even Usyk’s legendary resilience may not save him. And if Wilder becomes a two-time heavyweight champion with three belts in one night, the debate transforms instantly. Wilder Speaks: “Usyk, I Accept.” Speaking in Dubai during Kubrat Pulev vs Murat Gassiev fight week, Wilder made his stance unmistakably official: Fight Hub TV asked, “Do you want to fight Usyk? Is that the fight that’s in negotiations?” “Oh man, when he said that, in my mind I already said I accept. So I’m going to look right here in this camera and say it. Usyk, I appreciate the opportunity, and I accept.” It’s on. Or as close to “on” as heavyweight boxing ever gets. One Chance to Rewrite Everything Wilder’s career has been many things — divisive, electrifying, chaotic, historic, and at times heartbreakingly close to something greater. But it is still unfinished. Usyk vs Wilder gives the “Bronze Bomber” one clean swing at heavyweight immortality. One punch to silence critics. One punch to define a decade. One punch to claim three belts. Whatever happens, the final chapter begins in 2026. And for Deontay Wilder, it all comes down to the only equation that ever mattered: If he lands clean, everything changes in a heartbeat. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Nick’ The Wrecking’ Ball puts his WBA featherweight title on the line in a tough assignment against mandatory challenger Brandon ‘The Heartbreaker’ Figueroa on Saturday, February 7. Heading back to his beloved M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, Ball is defending his unbeaten record on home turf. Since winning the belt from Raymond Ford in June 2024 in Riyadh, the 28-year-old Ball has successfully defended against Ronny Rios, TJ Doheny, and, most recently, Sam Goodman, remaining unbeaten at 23-0-1 (13 KOs). This February 7 fight will be his third world title bout in his hometown, with the event broadcast live and exclusively on DAZN. The WBA featherweight title defense against Brandon Figueroa represents a crucial test and a chance to further cement Ball’s rise as one of boxing’s top emerging stars. Figueroa Brings Experience American challenger Brandon Figueroa, also 28, comes from Weslaco, Texas, and holds a professional record of 26-2-1 (19 KOs). A former two-weight world champion, Figueroa claimed the WBA super bantamweight title against Damien Vazquez in 2020 and added the WBC belt with a stoppage of Luis Nery in 2021. With knockout power and past championship experience, he presents a real test for Ball. He later lost to Stephen Fulton via majority decision before moving up to featherweight, where he captured the WBC Interim title over Mark Magsayo in 2023. After a second points loss to Fulton earlier in 2025, Figueroa returned to winning ways with a victory over Joet Gonzalez in July. This makes the February 7 clash one of the must-watch featherweight contests of early 2026. Frank Warren Comments “This fight is a strong start to 2026 and a showcase for Liverpool boxing,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Nick Ball has established himself as one of the sport’s rising stars. “Facing a recognized American opponent like Figueroa in his hometown makes this a high-profile fight. Brandon is a legitimate threat. “Nick has the tools to handle anyone in the division. The event also gives local contenders a platform to compete on a world stage.” Fans can watch Nick Ball vs Brandon Figueroa live and exclusively on DAZN on February 7. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

It’s that time of year again: World Boxing News proudly reveals the nominees for our 2025 Fighter of the Year award. This year’s list features eight elite fighters in what has been a quiet year at boxing’s summit. Several nominees fought just once in 2025, yet earned recognition for standout performances. Last year’s winner — and also the 2022 champion — Oleksandr Usyk returns to the ballot, underscoring his continued dominance in the heavyweight division. However, the winner will not be crowned until the first week of 2026, with the official award presentation to follow. This delay ensures all results are accounted for, including the highly anticipated December 27 Saudi Arabia card, featuring both Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani, whose outcomes could have a major impact on the final decision. 2025 WBN Fighter of the Year Nominees Terence “Bud” Crawford Fight: Defeated Canelo Álvarez, September 2025, Las Vegas Titles: Claimed WBA, WBO, IBF, and WBC super-middleweight belts Notes: Again, only one fight in 2025 as the first male boxer in the four-belt era to be an undisputed champion in three divisions. However, raised questions about the validity of his undisputed claim, as he did not — and never intended to — pay the WBC sanctioning fees. Oleksandr Usyk Fight: Defeated Tyson Fury, July 2025, Wembley Stadium Titles: Retained WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO heavyweight titles Notes: Only fought once in 2025. Continues to dominate as one of boxing’s top pound-for-pound fighters. Naoya “The Monster” Inoue 2025 Defenses: January 24: KO vs Ye Joon Kim, Ariake Arena, Koto-Ku May 4: TKO vs Ramon Cardenas, T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas September 14: UD vs Murodjon Akhmadaliev, IG Arena, Nagoya Upcoming: December 27 vs David Picasso, Saudi Arabia — a win would make Inoue the first fighter since Larry Holmes in 1983 to defend all four major belts in a single calendar year, highlighting his place in modern boxing history. Notes: Historic achievement would further cement his elite status. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez Fights: July 19: TKO vs Phumelela Cafu, The Ford Center at The Star, Frisco November 22: KO vs Fernando Daniel Martinez, ANB Arena, Riyadh Titles: Unified WBA, WBC, WBO super flyweight champion Notes: Active with two defenses, consolidating his reputation as a pound-for-pound star. Dmitry Bivol Fight: UD vs Artur Beterbiev, February 2025 Titles: Became the undisputed light-heavyweight champion, gaining revenge over his divisional rival. Notes: Another with only one bout in 2025 but claimed undisputed status. Technical mastery and historic unification achievement. Devin Haney Fights: May 2: UD vs Jose Carlos Ramirez, Times Square, New York November 22: UD vs Brian Norman Jr, ANB Arena, Riyadh Titles: Became a three-weight world champion with another dominant performance. Notes: Showcased adaptability and top pound-for-pound skills. Manny Pacquiao Fight: Majority draw vs Mario Barrios, July 19, 2025 Notes: Only fought once; age 46, with the consensus being he did enough to overhaul George Foreman as the second-oldest world champion ever. Also inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame for 2026, with induction taking place next summer, capping a historic year. Junto Nakatani 2025 Defenses: February 24: KO 3 vs David Cuellar Contreras June 8: RTD Ryosuke Nishida, Ariake Colosseum Upcoming: December 27 vs Sebastian Hernandez Reyes, Saudi Arabia Titles: Defended unified bantamweight before moving up. Notes: Technical precision and elite stamina mark him as a standout at 118 pounds. The December 27 bout could influence his candidacy, depending on the results. Who will take home the 2025 WBN Fighter of the Year crown? The winner will be announced in the first week of 2026, with the official award presentation to follow. Every nominee has left a significant mark on the sport, making the final decision a true reflection of boxing excellence in 2025. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Nine days after the machete killing of 20-year-old boxing prospect Josué David Hernández, the fugitive suspect remains at large as authorities continue an active search to locate him. The investigation, handled by the Fiscalía General del Estado de San Luis Potosí, has entered its second week with no arrest made. Officials have confirmed that Hernández’s sister’s partner is the primary suspect and has not been found despite continued efforts across Nuevo Progreso and surrounding municipalities. Leads remain under review as officers work to establish his movements since the day of the attack. The December 2 Attack The incident occurred when Hernández intervened to protect his sister during a domestic confrontation. According to local reports, the suspect allegedly attacked Hernández with a machete during the struggle. Hernández died at the scene from multiple wounds, prompting the immediate opening of a homicide case. A Promising Career Ended Hernández was recognized locally for his dedication to boxing, having competed in regional amateur events and participated in sparring camps with established professionals. He had been preparing for his professional debut in early 2026. Trainers and teammates have expressed deep frustration as the case continues without an arrest. Authorities continue the search as the suspect remains unaccounted for nine days after the killing. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

After seven years away from major on-camera work, Deontay Wilder returns as an actor and producer in the high-profile film Moses the Black. The film tells the story of a modern-day Chicago gangster inspired by the remarkable repentance of the 4th-century saint of the same name. Directed and written by Yelena Popovic, the movie also stars Omar Epps, Chukwudi Iwuji, and Ahmad Nicholas Ferguson. Wilder’s most recent screen appearance was a brief cameo in the Day of Reckoning trailer before his loss to Joseph Parker. His last substantial acting credits date back to 2019 with roles in Magnum P.I. and Billions. He has also featured in Lil’ Kim’s “Spicy” music video. Acting Ahead of Usyk Showdown The 2008 Olympic bronze medalist and former WBC heavyweight champion will appear on screen as he prepares for a potential world title clash with Oleksandr Usyk. Wilder is no doubt excited to be stepping back in front of the camera, especially after pitching himself for a run in the profession in previous interviews. Moses the Black is a powerful story, and it’s been great to see a boxer contribute both on screen and behind the scenes. Details regarding the release date of Moses the Black are expected to be announced soon. This marks a significant return for Wilder, who has focused mainly on boxing in recent years but is now branching out into a high-profile film production. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with over 15 years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

The long-discussed delay between Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson had far less to do with either fighter and everything to do with boxing’s fractured TV landscape. Lewis has often been asked why he and Tyson never met when both were at the peak of their careers. His answer has remained consistent: “People always ask me about Mike Tyson, why we never fought in my prime, and I tell them it wasn’t my fault.” Reports at the time also noted that much of the holdup wasn’t Tyson’s fault either. Both fighters were tied to rival networks—Lewis with HBO, Tyson with Showtime—and neither broadcaster would allow their star to appear on the other’s platform in the mid-1990s. Lewis later explained in a post-career interview that HBO would not have allowed him to cross over to Showtime for a 1996 fight, effectively ending negotiations before they became realistic. The Nevada Fallout and Legal Barriers Tyson’s 1997 disqualification loss to Evander Holyfield widened the divide. His license was revoked, and he spent parts of 1999 out of the ring while facing further legal issues. When Tyson attempted to return to face Ray Mercer in 2001, Lewis’ camp filed a legal injunction, concerned that a loss would jeopardize a future megafight. The move forced Tyson to abandon the Mercer bout and return to negotiations with Lewis. By the time the fight was rescheduled for April 2002, another setback emerged. A press conference brawl between the camps led Nevada to deny Tyson a license, and several other states followed. Memphis eventually stepped in with a $12 million bid to host the contest. The Six-Year Wait Ends Once HBO and Showtime finally agreed to a rare joint broadcast deal, the fight was sealed. When Lewis vs Tyson happened in June 2002, Lewis later said he knew he had to make a statement. “I hit him with everything: jab, right hand, uppercuts, and knocked him out because I wanted the world to see who the real heavyweight king was.” The fight shattered heavyweight pay-per-view records and delivered the definitive performance Lewis felt the sport had waited years to see—one that likely would not have happened without both networks finally agreeing to cooperate. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with over 15 years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Online reports claiming that the Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua fight has been canceled are entirely false. Within hours of the rumors spreading, Paul himself confirmed the fight is very much on, directly addressing Joshua and promising surprises in Miami. Paul Confirms the Bout “I’m not pulling out, I’m pulling in to Miami this Tuesday. Tell Anthony Joshua he’s in for some surprises,” Paul posted on social media. Hours later, he added, “Not long now. Me versus Anthony ‘The Giant’ Joshua. Hahahaha. 8 x 3-minute rounds. 10oz gloves. Professional heavyweight bout. Miami.” These time-stamped posts leave no doubt about the fight’s official status, following several articles stating the headliner is ‘off’ to drive clicks. Clickbait Reports Were Misleading The misleading reports appear to have stemmed from misinterpretations and clickbait headlines. Paul’s statements confirm the fight is on, despite third-party quotes suggesting the event won’t go ahead as planned due to a black eye. Fans can expect fireworks regardless, with Paul promising the unexpected and Joshua stepping into the ring against one of boxing’s most prominent crossover figures. Contrary to circulating rumors, neither fighter has officially withdrawn or canceled the bout. Setting the Record Straight This is a clear example of clickbait spreading faster than verified information. Social media chatter suggested the fight was off, but Paul’s direct, time-stamped posts confirm it is very much on. For boxing fans tracking the bout, the message is clear: Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua is happening, it’s a professional heavyweight bout, and the countdown to Miami has officially begun. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Carl Froch has fired back at Anthony Joshua following the Londoner’s tweet counting down to his December 19 fight against Jake Paul. Joshua posted “9 days to 19/12”, but Froch’s response made clear the former champion’s scathing view of the matchup. “Do the honorable sport of boxing some justice and make him breakdance on his head; otherwise, hang your head in shame,” Froch said, targeting both the fight and Joshua’s decision to accept it. Froch’s Historical Context While his remarks focus on the upcoming Jake Paul fight, Froch has previously questioned whether AJ’s victories over Charles Martin, Andy Ruiz Jr., Joseph Parker, and Alexander Povetkin measure up to the level of past heavyweight champions. Froch contrasted this with his own career, citing wins over Jean Pascal, Jermaine Taylor, Mikkel Kessler, and George Groves, emphasizing the sustained quality of his opposition and the historic significance of his achievements. Do the honorable sport of boxing some justice and make him breakdance on his head; otherwise, hang your head in shame. https://t.co/cQtVN45lWP — Carl Froch MBE (@Carl_Froch) December 10, 2025 The Jake Paul Fight Reaction Froch made it clear that, in his eyes, Joshua’s choice to face a non-boxer like Jake Paul does little to enhance his legacy. The verbal swipe referencing breakdancing underscored his view that the bout risks undermining the heavyweight champion’s credibility in the public eye. This exchange highlights an ongoing debate in British boxing: titles and popularity alone do not define a fighter’s legacy. Froch maintains that consistent competition against elite opponents is the measure of a true champion, and fights like the December 19 matchup fall short of that standard. The Continuing Debate As the fight approaches, Froch’s commentary continues to provoke discussion. His remarks remind fans that boxing legacy extends beyond belts—it is shaped by opponents, challenges, and defining moments inside the ring. For now, Froch remains vocal, and the debate over Anthony Joshua’s career and legacy shows no signs of slowing as the Netflix showdown nears. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

WBC Super-lightweight champion Subriel Matias responded defiantly to an ostarine finding as his January 10 title defense against Dalton Smith proceeds. Since the confirmation by the WBC that the fight continues, Matias issued a battle cry about his B-sample dispute. The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) confirmed an adverse finding following routine testing, prompting the WBC to open its Clean Boxing Program investigation. Initially, Matias’ fight with Smith was in jeopardy, raising questions about the Super-lightweight title’s immediate future. WBC Places Champion on Probation Following a trace ostarine finding attributed by the WBC to probable supplement contamination, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman announced that Matias has been placed on probation but cleared to continue competing. The January 10 fight at Barclays Center remains scheduled. The WBC confirmed that the champion and his promoter are fully cooperating with the investigation. Matias Responds Matias has publicly addressed the situation, emphasizing the B-sample and denying any wrongdoing. “Everyone saw how they talked trash, that I’m a cheater, that I’m a this or that, but no one talks about the B-sample,” he said. “Why don’t you look for information? Why doesn’t that gossiping put out what came out in the B-sample? The coin has two sides. I always told you, don’t speak if you don’t have evidence, but whatever, that’s dead. “We are clean. Never in my life have I needed anything to cheat. I’ll see you on January 10, Barclays Center.” The champion stressed that speculation should be based on evidence, highlighting that the B-sample results could vindicate him. Impact on the Super-lightweight Division The initial positive test briefly threatened the division’s ranking order. Had the title been vacated, Dalton Smith was expected to face No. 2 contender Alberto Puello for the belt. No changes have been made, but the situation underscores the fragility of championship paths and high stakes for early 2026. Matias’ ostarine test remains a key factor for fans and contenders in the division, Next Steps The WBC’s Clean Boxing Program continues to monitor the case. Historically, fighters found in violation of PED rules have faced suspensions, fines, or title stripping. However, with the B-sample results pending, Matias remains the WBC Super-lightweight champion until the investigation concludes. His January 10 defense against Dalton Smith now carries added significance as the division awaits clarity. WBN will continue to track developments, keeping fans informed on this pivotal Super-lightweight clash. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

At 36, most heavyweights are planning retirement. Anthony Joshua is still hungry and studying the man who beat him twice — a surprising move for a fighter many thought was in his twilight. Ahead of his Jake Paul fight, insiders reveal Joshua has quietly been working with Team Usyk, absorbing the methods of the reigning heavyweight champion. This isn’t about sparring or preparing for a single opponent — it’s about heavyweight evolution for one final shot at a late stage of his career. Studying the Best Sergey Lapin, part of Usyk’s camp, described the collaboration as focused entirely on growth. “He (Usyk) came over, they worked together, but there were no sparring sessions — Jake Paul isn’t a southpaw, so there was no point. He shared his experience during the preparation process,” Lapin said. Why Team Usyk? Lapin explained: “Nothing happens by accident. AJ is someone who always strives to evolve. That’s why he came — he wants new solutions and honest work that can take him to the next level.” Team Usyk’s Formula This collaboration isn’t about a single fight. “This isn’t about one opponent. It’s about AJ’s development. And as everyone heard, Fury said he’s stepping away from boxing,” Lapin said. Joshua isn’t relying on one trainer. He’s working with a structured team — a head coach, an assistant, and specialists — each focusing on different areas of improvement. The emphasis, Lapin said, is on mentally and technically mapping his next moves, with results meant to show in the ring rather than on social media. Next Steps in the Ring When asked about critics who say Joshua will “just carry Jake Paul for eight rounds,” Lapin replied: “Let them talk. Thousands can talk — only a few can act. That’s the difference.” On Usyk’s potential role in Joshua’s corner, Lapin was clear: for championship fights, he could be there. And could Team Usyk eventually help AJ topple Tyson Fury? “Everything is done step by step. There is much more work ahead than talk. If that fight happens, the ring will give the only answer that matters.” Joshua’s Surprising Next Chapter It’s a curious picture for a former Olympic gold medalist and heavyweight champion. At an age when most fighters are planning farewell tours, Joshua is still in development mode, seeking lessons from the very man who humbled him. Whether this methodical, slow-burning approach can reignite his career remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: AJ is still trying to evolve — even as the clock ticks down. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Zuffa Boxing is moving from speculation to launch, with the debut date confirmed and initial fighter signings underway. With January 23 in Las Vegas locked in as the debut — landing the night before the UFC’s first Paramount+ broadcast — WBN understands the promotion is preparing to announce its first wave of fighter signings as part of the highly anticipated boxing league launch. TKO president Mark Shapiro has confirmed the long-anticipated launch, revealing that Zuffa Boxing is building a league expected to top 200 fighters — a multi-division, year-round operation designed to deliver consistent matchups, marquee stars, and a closed-loop production model reminiscent of the UFC. 360 Promotions Stars Leading the Charge While no official names have been confirmed, WBN believes Tom Loeffler’s close relationship with Dana White suggests several top fighters on 360 Promotions already have initial contracts. Callum Walsh – Irish southpaw with knockout power and promotional flair Serhii Bohachuk – WBC Silver titleholder and relentless junior middleweight slugger Cain “Sugar” Sandoval – undefeated lightweight backed by Freddie Roach Umar Dzambekov – explosive light heavyweight trained at Wild Card Daniel “Chucky” Barrera – technical southpaw with fan-friendly aggression Mizuki Hiruta – WBO super flyweight champion, adding global reach Rising prospects such as Right Hook Roxy Verduzco, Omar Trinidad, Gor Yeritsyan, and Lupita Medina could also feature among early roster additions, providing a balance of established talent and marketable personalities for the first season. WBN sees the talent pipeline as “aligned perfectly with Dana White’s vision of all-action boxing under a UFC-style promotional umbrella.” Why 200 Fighters Matter The ambitious roster target is both structural and scale-driven. Zuffa Boxing is building a year-round ecosystem capable of: Running multiple cards across divisions Creating internal rankings and titles Sustaining consistent storylines for TV and streaming audiences Developing crossover stars for Paramount+ while maintaining strict matchmaking control A pool of 200 fighters allows Zuffa to populate divisions, rotate cards efficiently, and ensure both the debut and subsequent events feel polished and competitive. A Decade in the Making Dana White’s original Zuffa Boxing project stalled between 2017 and 2021 due to broadcast uncertainty and boxing’s fractured promotional environment. The TKO merger and Paramount+ partnership have now provided the infrastructure that the concept initially lacked. Executives describe boxing as entering a commercial reset following Showtime Boxing‘s exit, the PBC–Amazon deal, and DAZN‘s shifting strategy. With the UFC’s marketing machine behind it, Zuffa Boxing sees a rare opportunity to capture market share in a sport hungry for structure. Who Could Be Targeted Beyond 360 Promotions While the first wave is expected to lean on 360’s top fighters, insiders indicate Zuffa will also pursue: Top-15 contenders nearing contract expiry Free agents released during broadcast reshuffles Rising amateurs seeking immediate exposure Out-of-contract former world champions seeking a reboot Some have speculated the promotion may unveil a “franchise fighter” centerpiece — a marquee name capable of redefining the sport’s hierarchy. Countdown to the Announcement With the debut date locked, Zuffa Boxing is working on a compressed timeline to announce the first signings and full fight card: Before Christmas: first wave of signings Production and marketing require fighters contracted and cleared Full fight card reveal follows quickly to support Paramount+ Some deals may already be signed but are embargoed, with 360 Promotions stars expected to headline early announcements, giving the debut immediate credibility. Looking Ahead Zuffa Boxing is poised to challenge traditional promotional hierarchies. With a massive 200-fighter roster, marquee 360 Promotions names, and a tightly managed debut timeline, the sport is on the cusp of a dramatic shake-up. Once the first names are revealed — potentially including Walsh, Bohachuk, Sandoval, Dzambekov, Barrera, and Hiruta — fans will see Dana White’s UFC-style vision for boxing take its first tangible form as the countdown to January 23 begins. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

The undefeated and undisputed face of women’s boxing is coming home. Claressa “The GWOAT” Shields (17-0, 3 KOs) will headline a blockbuster night at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, February 22, 2026, stepping into the long-awaited Shields vs Crews-Dezurn rematch against Franchón Crews-Dezurn (10-2, 2 KOs). Ironically, it’s the same opponent from her professional debut nearly ten years ago. This fight carries not only a championship on the line but a decade-long legacy to settle. Shields will defend her Undisputed Heavyweight World Championship in what promises to be one of the most meaningful fights of her career. Doors open at 4 p.m. ET, and the fight will stream live worldwide on DAZN. Shields vs Crews-Dezurn: Decade-Long Rivalry Returns On November 19, 2016, Shields and Crews-Dezurn made simultaneous professional debuts on the undercard of Andre Ward vs. Sergey Kovalev. Shields, fresh off back-to-back Olympic gold medals—the first American boxer ever to achieve the feat—won a four-round unanimous decision. Crews-Dezurn rebuilt her career to become an undisputed world champion at super middleweight. The question of a rematch has lingered ever since. “In 2016, we went four rounds,” Shields said. “This fight will pick up from round five. I plan on putting Franchón on her back and leaving with the KO. I’m 100 percent now. She’s elite, but I am super elite, and I plan on proving that come fight night.” Crews-Dezurn, equally motivated, added: “I’ve been waiting and working a long time for this moment. We finally meet again as established champions with legacies to defend. I’m ready to give Detroit—and the world—a great fight.” Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions, said: “Nearly a decade ago, Claressa and Franchón stepped into the ring as Olympians making their professional debuts. Now, they meet again in a matchup that carries international significance. This fight is about heart, courage, and cementing legacies in women’s boxing.” Shields vs Crews-Dezurn Headlines Big Night in Detroit Shields’ previous appearance at Little Caesars Arena sold out, and returning to the city that supported her since her rise through the amateur ranks adds extra weight. “Fighting in Michigan motivates me, but it also puts pressure on me because I never want to fail my fans,” she said. For fans, this isn’t just another title defense. It’s a high-stakes showdown between two of women’s boxing’s most decorated champions—a moment that reflects the evolution of the sport and the resilience of its pioneers. Shields has cemented her place as the undisputed queen of the ring, while Crews-Dezurn is ready to prove that their first meeting was only the beginning. The Shields vs Crews-Dezurn rematch is one of intrigue with the debut angle. Event Details Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026 Venue: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI Doors Open: 4 p.m. ET Streaming: DAZN About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Andy Ruiz Jr has finally admitted what Manny Robles warned the sport about: the former unified heavyweight champion didn’t lose his belts to opponents — he lost them to his own lack of discipline. More than 16 months since his last ring outing, Ruiz has confirmed he’s heading back to the trainer who built him into the man who stunned Anthony Joshua. Ruiz owns it In a blunt interview with Covers, Ruiz didn’t dodge responsibility. “They’re going to have me in check,” Ruiz said. “I used to make my own hours… train whenever I wanted… before and after I became champion.” No blaming managers, no blaming camps. This is Ruiz pointing the finger at himself — the same problem Manny Robles has been calling out since the title win. Back under Robles’ rules — not his own The reunion isn’t sentimental. It’s practical. Ruiz told Covers he’s travelling to Los Angeles to train in Robles’ gym, under Robles’ structure. “(Robles and I) made history together against Anthony Joshua, and we’re going to do it again,” Ruiz said. “I’m excited to get out of my comfort zone, his space, his gym, his rules, to stay dedicated.” That phrase — wanting to be “in check” — is a cleaner confession than anything we’ve had from Ruiz since 2019. It also explains why his form and momentum evaporated after the Joshua upset. Robles was right Robles always said winning changed Ruiz. The hunger slipped, the structure vanished, and the fighter who had been fed, housed, and protected in Los Angeles drifted away. Ruiz’s comments now read like confirmation of that diagnosis. Since the rematch with Anthony Joshua, Ruiz’s activity and form have been patchy. A short spell with another camp fizzled. Potential big fights never landed. His conditioning bounced more than his schedule. The tools are still there — speed and power — but the heavyweight picture has moved on without him. The rebuild starts now Robles and Edgar “Estrellita” Jasso have the job of putting Ruiz back into fight shape after a long spell away from the ring. Ruiz has acknowledged the work ahead. “This sport is hard. It’s a lot of discipline,” he said. “With these coaches that don’t play around, it’s going to help me a lot.” It’s not reinvention. It’s a return to the only version of Ruiz that ever worked — the version Robles created before success pulled everything apart. One chance left The heavyweight division is wide open, but Ruiz doesn’t automatically get a seat at the table anymore. One meaningful win pushes him back into contention. One slip ends the story. Ruiz has finally admitted the problem. Now he must prove the solution. Talk time is over. It’s discipline or nothing. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.

World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman has added his views to the talk surrounding a heavyweight super-fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder. Speaking to WBN after a successful 63rd WBC Convention in Bangkok, Sulaiman gave an update on the current WBC heavyweight title situation. “Usyk is an extraordinary champion who has defeated the best of the best in recent years,” Sulaiman told WBN. “He dethroned Anthony Joshua and won again in their rematch, dethroned Tyson Fury to become Undisputed, and also defeated him in a rematch, then just impressively knocked out Daniel Dubois.” On the WBC greenlighting the bout, Sulaiman added, “Usyk petitioned the WBC for a voluntary defense, which was granted, and the name of Deontay Wilder has been mentioned as the possible opponent. “Wilder will always be a high-risk challenge, with the highest KO percentage, a former WBC champion for five years with 10 title defenses. “He is ranked in the top fifteen of the WBC and is certainly a sensational fight if it is made,” he concluded. Usyk Targets Wilder Usyk has consistently sought the toughest challenges in the heavyweight division, and Wilder represents exactly that. Known for his staggering knockout power and long WBC reign, Wilder is the high-risk, high-reward opponent only a fighter of Usyk’s caliber would pursue. The Ukrainian champion has already cemented his legacy by cleaning out the division in emphatic fashion. A showdown with Wilder would add another monumental chapter to his career. Exclusive Insight: Behind the Scenes WBN understands that all parties involved are aligned. Multiple conversations with Wilder’s manager, Shelly Finkel, and Team Usyk confirm serious intent. Finkel told WBN exclusively, “We are definitely interested,” highlighting Wilder’s willingness to face Usyk and signalling momentum behind the scenes. Any potential distractions, including fights with Francis Ngannou or other options, have been dismissed. Wilder’s camp has made it clear that the focus is on a major 2026 heavyweight clash, with Usyk naturally rising to the top after Joshua’s dates shifted later in the spring. Timing and Venue Options Sources indicate the fight is realistically pencilled in for February or March under the expanded Riyadh Season, or potentially April in New York or Las Vegas. Both Saudi-backed events and U.S. premium venues would suit the scale of a clash between an undisputed champion and a former long-reigning WBC knockout king. WBC Backing Confirms Legitimacy WBC President Sulaiman’s exclusive confirmation that the voluntary defense has been approved underscores the bout’s official sanctioning. With Wilder already in the WBC’s top 15 rankings, the fight is both legitimate and meaningful for the division. The Bottom Line With history, style, narrative, and behind-the-scenes momentum all aligned, Usyk vs Wilder is now the heavyweight fight to watch. This is not a casual call-out; it is a serious, WBN-exclusive confirmation that the division’s most intriguing clash is on the verge of becoming reality for early 2026. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Teofimo Lopez and Shakur Stevenson are set to collide on January 31 at the world-famous Madison Square Garden. The fight headlines The Ring VI, with Lopez defending his WBO super lightweight title in a bout streaming live worldwide on DAZN. Stevenson moves up in weight for a bold attempt to become a four-division world champion. Stevenson Fires First Shot “Shout to Teo for accepting this fight. Now let’s focus up. Can’t let nobody trick me out of position. All or nothing come Jan 31st — see y’all later!!” — Shakur Stevenson Ring VI Returns to New York “Boxing is back at the world’s most famous arena,” said Turki Alalshikh, owner of The Ring, after his first event in Times Square failed to light up the sport. “Teofimo Lopez will defend his Ring and WBO super lightweight world titles vs Shakur Stevenson at Madison Square Garden on January 31 in New York.” Brooklyn’s Teofimo Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) defends his WBO 140-lb title after a clear victory over Arnold Barboza Jr. He previously defeated Vasiliy Lomachenko in a high-profile win that earned him WBN Fighter of the Year in 2020 and also holds a notable win over Josh Taylor. Lopez is currently ranked #13 on the WBN Pound-for-Pound Top 50. The WBN view: Lopez remains unpredictable but a prodigious talent. A win over Stevenson could push him back into the Pound-for-Pound Top 10. “Duck, Duck, Goose! Are you ready for New York City? Brick city in the concrete jungle. The Takeover is here to stay, not play. Make Boxing Great Again is my forte. Shakur will fall in nine.” — Teofimo Lopez Stevenson Moves Up for Four-Division Glory Shakur Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs), still the reigning WBC lightweight champion, steps up to 140 pounds to challenge Lopez. Victory would make Stevenson a four-division world champion — a historic achievement in the sport. Stevenson is currently ranked #9 on the WBN Pound-for-Pound Top 50. “I’ve never shied away from a challenge. Teofimo Lopez will learn that firsthand on January 31 when I take his belt and show him there are levels to this game.” — Shakur Stevenson The Newark southpaw, long tipped as the next Mayweather, could cement his legacy with a win at Madison Square Garden. Event Details Date: January 31 Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York Champion: Teofimo Lopez (WBO Super Lightweight) Challenger: Shakur Stevenson (moving up from WBC Lightweight) Event: The Ring VI Streaming: DAZN (worldwide) Ticket pre-sale will begin December 10 at Noon ET, with the general on-sale to follow on December 11 at Noon ET at Ticketmaster.com. Additional ticketing, undercard, and event announcements will follow in the coming weeks. Legacy on the Line For Lopez, victory reinforces his position as one of boxing’s most explosive talents. For Stevenson, it’s the chance to become a four-division champion on one of the sport’s biggest stages. January 31 at Madison Square Garden will determine who truly rules the super lightweight division heading into 2026. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

The cruiserweight division has produced some of boxing’s most exciting champions, but not all reigns are equal. Using official WBC records and statistics compiled by Luis Medina, the top 10 WBC titleholders are revealed ahead of the Badou Jack vs Noel Mikaelian rematch on December 13. WBN focuses on two key debates: David Haye vs. Tony Bellew and Oleksandr Usyk vs. Evander Holyfield. Haye Surpasses Bellew David Haye‘s rise to WBC glory was dramatic. In 2007, he stunned the world by defeating Jean-Marc Mormeck in France to claim the belt. Haye then unified the division by stopping Enzo Maccarinelli in London, cementing his status before moving up to heavyweight just a year after taking the crown. His British rival, Tony Bellew, won the WBC cruiserweight belt in 2016, knocking out Ilunga Makabu and defending against BJ Flores. While Bellew later defeated Haye twice at heavyweight in 2017 and 2018, his cruiserweight reign is generally seen as less significant than Haye’s, making Haye the superior champion at 200 pounds. Usyk Behind Holyfield Oleksandr Usyk dominated the modern cruiserweight era, winning his first WBC title in 2016 and unifying all belts by the end of the 2018 World Boxing Super Series. He then successfully transitioned to heavyweight. Despite his technical mastery and accomplishments, Usyk ranks below Evander Holyfield, who claimed the WBC cruiserweight crown in 1987 and became undisputed champion within a year, leaving an enduring legacy as the best 200-pound champion in WBC history. Completing the Top 10 Following Holyfield and Usyk, the top 10 includes Juan Carlos Gomez, who enjoyed a four-year reign from 1998 to 2002. Haye sits fourth, followed by Bellew in fifth. The remaining top 10 are Mairis Briedis (Latvia), Zsolt Erdei (Hungary), Krzystof Wlodarczyk (Poland), Mormeck (France), and Anaclet Wamba (France). These fighters combined longevity, title defenses, and memorable performances to cement their place in cruiserweight history. Legacy and Impact The WBC has recognized 24 world champions in the cruiserweight division, three of whom regained the title (Carlos de Leon, Jean-Marc Mormeck, and Badou Jack). Across 78 championship bouts, the division has produced knockout artists, technical masters, and historical icons. Haye’s dramatic unification and Bellew’s shorter reign illustrate why not all champions are equal, just as Usyk’s brilliance, though exceptional, still falls short of Holyfield’s historical impact. If Jack beats Mikaelian again on December 13, he could one day join this elite top 10. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Fighters don’t just lose matches — sometimes they lose the narrative. That may be what Floyd Mayweather is thinking after two of his biggest rivals — Mike Tyson and Manny Pacquiao — publicly revealed details about future match-ups. Tyson Drops the Bomb At his “An Evening With Mike Tyson” event this week, Tyson stunned the audience by leaking plans when asked who his next fight would be against. “Floyd Mayweather, can you believe that? It’s going to be in March in Africa. It’s going to break all the records.” That revelation adds fresh heat to one of boxing’s most talked-about exhibitions: Tyson vs. Mayweather, expected in March 2026 somewhere on that continent. Mayweather Likes to Control the Narrative Mayweather built his 50‑0 professional legacy across five weight divisions by meticulously controlling timing, promotion, and media narratives. So when Tyson — a man who once called Mayweather “a little scared man” for comparing himself to legends — announced the fight details in front of fans, he didn’t just hype the event. He encroached on Mayweather’s turf. Pacquiao Set the Precedent It isn’t the first time someone spilled what Mayweather preferred to keep under wraps. Earlier this year, Pacquiao revealed details of a planned 2026 rematch. A few weeks after confirming it, he cut off a reporter who asked about the fight during his son’s professional debut in Los Angeles. Observers noted Mayweather likely would have told Pacquiao to stay quiet — the same principle that makes Tyson’s public reveal potentially irritating for Floyd. The Stakes Behind the Scenes Now that Tyson is doing the same, the pattern is clear: the spectacle may thrill fans, but behind the scenes, Mayweather’s preference for control is being challenged. Come March, Africa will host a historic exhibition that’s sure to break records — but behind the cameras, the real fight is already in motion. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Oscar De La Hoya has launched a blistering attack on Terence Crawford after the three-weight world champion refused to pay WBC sanctioning fees for his clash with Canelo Álvarez. The move led the WBC to strip Crawford of their title. It also reshaped the super-middleweight division overnight. “I’m pretty f***ing pissed off,” De La Hoya said. “Terence Crawford told the WBC to basically go f*** themselves yesterday. He is refusing to pay sanctioning fees for his $50 million fight against Canelo. Fifty million! “Did he forget where he came from? How do you think you rose to that level? Through the ranking system. You get positioned to make that kind of money.” De La Hoya accused Crawford of abandoning the system that helped elevate him into boxing’s elite. “You’re 38 years old. You’ve been paying sanctioning fees your whole career. “There’s nothing new here. You had no problem when they were ranking you to f***ing fight Canelo,” he added. WBC Moves Quickly to Fill the Vacant Title Crawford’s defiance came as the WBC acted to fill the now-vacant belt. Christian Mbilli and Hamzah Sheeraz have been approved to contest the championship. The winner is set to face Lester Martinez in their first defense. Meanwhile, Canelo Álvarez has secured the No.1 spot in the WBC rankings. He is now in line to reclaim the super middleweight title in 2027 without facing Crawford directly. The irony is clear. While Crawford walks away from WBC involvement, Canelo is now in direct line to regain the very title Crawford lost without defending it at all. In boxing terms, this creates an alternative timeline for Canelo in the super-middleweight title landscape. De La Hoya Compares Crawford to a Hollywood Actor De La Hoya compared Crawford’s actions to a Hollywood analogy. “It’s like my agent getting me a huge movie and asking for his ten percent commission for all the work he put in. And then I tell him, ‘You know what? Go f*** yourself.’ How fair is that?” He said he was stunned by Crawford’s behavior, especially since the WBC rankings had played a major role in landing the original Canelo fight. Crawford Rematch Still Possible Despite the fallout, insiders say a Canelo–Crawford rematch remains on the table for 2026. Without WBC involvement, the fight would be a legacy clash rather than a title unification. With Mbilli, Sheeraz, and Martinez now in the mix, Canelo could regain the belt before stepping back into the ring with Crawford. Crawford may have unintentionally paved the way for Canelo to reclaim his old WBC title. One decision — refusing to pay the fees — could cost him the chance to fight for it directly. “Crawford vs Canelo II is still possible, but the balance of power may have already shifted in favor of Álvarez. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Sergey Lapin fired at Jake Paul’s team in an exclusive with World Boxing News. The director for undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk gave a no-nonsense assessment of Jake Paul’s boxing future and the hype surrounding Paul vs Anthony Joshua on December 19 at the Kaseya Center in Miami. Lapin Detonates on Jake Paul At the mere notion of Jake Paul facing Usyk, Lapin didn’t hold back. He asked Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions Team a pointed question — a clear dismissal. While public curiosity focuses on how long Paul might last against Joshua or whether Joshua would “take it easy,” Lapin’s verdict leaves no room for doubt. “Jake Paul sells himself better than anyone; that’s why everyone wants to fight him. Plus, he has a big Netflix contract,” Lapin said to WBN. “But the reality is simple: December 19 will be the last day of his boxing career. The skill gap is too wide. He has no chance.” Usyk vs Paul? Not a Boxing Match Lapin was equally blunt about a potential Usyk showdown. “Impossible. You can’t even imagine a boxing novice against the undisputed heavyweight champion. There were some talks about MMA, but it never went further than a face-to-face.” While Usyk has hinted at a possible MMA clash with Paul, Lapin confirmed this remains the only realistic path. He had previously responded to MVP’s two-fight plan for Paul, featuring Joshua then Usyk, with the same blunt dismissal of ‘What are you smoking?’ Paul’s Record Speaks for Itself Paul has faced only one recognized prime boxer, Tommy Fury, and lost. His other wins came against also-rans, aged MMA stars, or former boxing champions long past their prime. His professional boxing record stands at 12-1, 7 KOs — a statistic that reinforces Lapin’s point about the skill gap. Meanwhile, Joshua is already under the weight limit set by Paul’s team to slightly level the playing field, prompting Joshua to declare, “I need to KO Jake Paul. That’s my intention, to seek and destroy.” Countdown to December 19 With the fight just weeks away, Lapin’s verdict places Paul’s boxing ambitions on thin ice while cementing Usyk’s untouchable status in the heavyweight division. The Miami Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua clash promises spectacle, but according to Usyk’s camp, it’s little more than a public sideshow — a mismatch in every meaningful sense. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Jazza Dickens is finally a world champion. The WBA stripped Lamont Roach Jr., who was contesting the WBC interim super-lightweight title, promoting Dickens from interim to full super-featherweight champion. The Liverpool southpaw becomes the UK’s fourth current world titleholder, joining Nick Ball, Lewis Crocker, and Fabio Wardley. For Dickens, 34, it was a moment years in the making — 14 years and 319 days after turning professional, the second-longest wait in boxing history, behind only Archie Moore’s 17-year journey. Today I became @WBABoxing world champion. The second longest ever wait (14yr319d) after Archie Moore (17yrs) Just a small team of good people, guided by God! Praise be to the king of kings Jesus Christ! — Jazza Dickens | Boxing (@JazzaDickens10) December 7, 2025 KO Secures Crown Dickens’ rise was unconventional. On July 2, 2025, he defeated Albert Batyrgaziev in Istanbul to claim the WBA interim super-featherweight title. A fourth-round stoppage at 2:26 saw Batyrgaziev’s corner throw in the towel after Dickens dominated with relentless combinations, sharp southpaw angles, and a decisive overhand left. Full Champion After Roach Vacates Holding the interim belt was a step forward. Full recognition came automatically when Roach moved up in weight for the WBC interim super-lightweight fight. By WBA rules, his departure vacated the 130-pound crown, instantly promoting Dickens to full world champion. A Long-Awaited Vindication “This is the second-longest wait ever,” Dickens wrote on social media. “Just a small team of good people, guided by God! Praise be to the king of kings, Jesus Christ!” He also addressed discrepancies in rankings, noting he was #1 in the WBA but only #3 in the UK on BoxRec, highlighting inconsistencies. Dickens’ journey emphasizes persistence over promotion — decades of grind, faith, and a small trusted team rather than media hype. Next: Tsutsumi Challenge Dickens’ first defense is scheduled for December 27, 2025, against Japanese contender Hayato Tsutsumi. That fight will determine whether his long wait is validated in the ring. The KO over Batyrgaziev gives this title real credibility — it isn’t a paper championship, but the result of persistence, faith, and self-belief. Key Takeaways Second-longest wait for a world title in history. KO over Batyrgaziev legitimizes the belt. Persistence and faith over promotion and hype. First defense against Tsutsumi will cement his legacy. Jazza Dickens’ story is a testament to perseverance in modern boxing: decades of dedication, a small trusted team, and finally, recognition at the highest level. In an era dominated by promotion and instant fame, Dickens proves that consistent grind and focus can still lead to a world title. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s biggest events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Jai Opetaia’s dominance over the cruiserweight division has reached a staggering new level. The unbeaten IBF world champion has now hospitalized six of his last seven opponents, a streak of damage unseen in modern boxing. Only Britain’s Jack Massey has emerged from the ring without sustaining major injury. Saturday night in Broadbeach delivered another stark reminder. Huseyin Cinkara, previously 23-0, pressed forward early before being stopped in the eighth round with a crushing one-punch knockout. The finish left him with a confirmed brain contusion, a small brain bleed, and a fractured C1 vertebra — a type of broken neck known as a Jefferson fracture. According to spinalcord.com, a fracture of the C1 vertebra (the atlas) is a break in one of the seven cervical vertebrae (C1-C7) that make up the neck. It can be stable or unstable, often involves the C1 ring, and can potentially impact the spinal canal, making it a serious medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Cinkara was immediately transported by ringside medical staff and is expected to remain hospitalized for at least 2 days. What a finish 💥💥💥 Jai Opetaia knocks David Nyika out cold. 🥶 🎥 @DAZNBoxing pic.twitter.com/ikgqrqsfF6 — World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) January 8, 2025 Six of his last seven opponents hospitalized The trend is now undeniable. Before Cinkara, Opetaia sent a line of unbeaten contenders and former champions directly to post-fight medical care: Claudio Squeo (KO5) – Hospitalized David Nyika (KO4) – Hospitalized Ellis Zorro (KO1) – Hospitalized after a single left hand ended the fight early Jordan Thompson (TKO4) – Hospitalized after multiple knockdowns Mairis Briedis (UD12) – The former unified cruiserweight champion suffered multiple facial fractures and required an extended medical assessment Massey remains the lone opponent to exit without significant damage, though he was stopped in six rounds. A pattern of heavy damage Across an eight-fight stretch dating back to 2023, Opetaia has hurt, dropped, or stopped nearly every opponent he has faced. His combination of southpaw timing, hand speed, and physical strength is producing consistent, fight-ending consequences, even against world-class opposition. Cinkara’s condition raises concerns Cinkara’s injuries — particularly the brain bleed — have intensified safety discussions while reinforcing Opetaia’s status as arguably the most dangerous champion in boxing. Opetaia, 30, left the bout with a badly swollen right eye but no serious complications. The division’s biggest question With mandatory obligations cleared and top contenders either beaten or recovering, the central question around the IBF champion is no longer whether he is the top cruiserweight. It is whether anyone in the division can endure him for twelve rounds. Opetaia’s next move will shape the entire weight class ahead of a move up to heavyweight. For now, no fighter in boxing is inflicting more consistent and significant damage on world-level opponents than Jai Opetaia. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (28-3-2, 18 KOs) and former world champion Lamont Roach Jr. (25-1-3, 10 KOs) went 12 rounds to a majority draw in the main event of a PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. Cruz retained the Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, with one judge scoring 115-111 for Cruz and two scoring 113-113. Cruz Starts Fast, Roach Responds The aggressive Cruz pressed from the opening bell, fueled by the home crowd, forcing Roach to stay on the defensive. In round three, Cruz landed a clean left hook that briefly put Roach’s glove on the canvas, recording an early knockdown. “I knew he would stand his ground and go toe-to-toe, but I know how to box too,” said Cruz. “People don’t realize I can box.” “Hats off to ‘Pitbull,'” Roach said. “He’s a great champion. I gave the fans a great fight. Back to the drawing board.” Mid-Fight Adjustments Roach absorbed Cruz’s pressure and used counters to stay competitive. By the middle rounds, he seemed to edge a tiring Cruz. In round seven, Cruz was docked a point for low blows. Roach capitalized, landing clean shots and forcing Cruz to smother much of his offense. Climactic Final Rounds Round 11 saw Cruz connect with a heavy shot in the center, prompting both men to trade power punches. The 12th round kept fans on their feet throughout, with CompuBox showing Roach landed a narrow 142-132 edge in power punches. Post-Fight Reactions “All I want is a fair shake,” Roach said. “I think I should have won a close victory. That’s it. I don’t accept this at all. I clearly thought I won a close fight. I’m tired of this.” “I did my job,” Cruz said. “I did my work. The ref was on his side. The judges, too. The crowd in San Antonio saw that I won this fight. “Absolutely, I’d do a rematch. With a different referee who is not on his side. The referee took this fight from me.” Both fighters delivered a competitive, high-paced 12 rounds, showcasing the depth of the 140-pound division. Cruz retains his interim title, and both men left the door open for a potential rematch. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s biggest events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.

WBC Super Featherweight World Champion O’Shaquie Foster (24-3, 12 KOs) defeated two-division champion Stephen Fulton Jr. (23-2, 8 KOs) by unanimous decision to claim the Interim WBC Lightweight Title. The fight, on the PBC pay-per-view undercard of Isaac Cruz vs Lamont Roach, saw Foster control distance and pace from the opening rounds, using his reach and jab to keep Fulton off balance. Judges scored the bout 119-109, 118-110, and 117-111. Foster Dominates With Tactical Precision “The game plan was to stay smart, stay sharp, and get him out of there in the later rounds,” Foster said. “But he’s a damn good fighter and a veteran, and he knew how to survive.” Foster, fighting in his home state of Texas, dictated the early rounds with his jab, landing 41 to Fulton’s 14 in the first six rounds. Switching stances, he increased pressure, landing straight shots that kept Fulton on the back foot. Overall, Foster landed 191 punches to Fulton’s 56. Fulton attempted to close the distance in the final rounds, but was repeatedly met with sharp counters and was unable to mount any sustained offense. Looking Ahead After the win, Foster called out potential future opponents. “I want Shakur Stevenson,” he said. “It looks like he’s going to fight at 140, so I have to choose either 130 or 135. I’ll see what happens and make a decision.” Foster’s performance confirmed his status as a rising force in the lightweight division. By controlling distance, landing power shots, and limiting Fulton’s offense, he captured the interim title and positioned himself for a potential showdown with top contenders at 130 or 135 pounds. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed dozens of world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside at the sport’s most significant events since founding WBN in 2010. Read full bio.