Khan teams up with Balmoral Group and Queensberry Promotions, in collaboration with the WBC, for a stacked night of high-stakes boxing featuring some of the sport’s brightest rising stars. Star-Studded Lineup The Lagos card is packed with knockout power and technical brilliance, blending established names with hungry prospects ready to step into the global spotlight. Fans can expect a night of knockout action in the run-up to the festive season. Lawrence Okolie – The Sauce Lawrence Okolie, a former WBO cruiserweight world champion, has transitioned to the heavyweight division with a record of 22 wins and one loss, boasting 16 knockouts. Known for his devastating right hand and relentless pressure, Okolie is set to headline the Lagos event. His most recent victory was a unanimous decision over Kevin Lerena in July 2025, retaining his WBC Silver Heavyweight title. With a reach of 82.5 inches and a height of 6’5″, Okolie’s physical attributes make him a formidable opponent in the heavyweight division. David Adeleye – Big D David Adeleye, the undefeated Nigerian-British heavyweight sensation, brings a perfect blend of size, athleticism, and boxing IQ. With a record of 14 wins and two losses, including 13 knockouts, Adeleye is coming off a loss to Filip Hrgović in August 2025. Before that, he secured a stunning knockout victory over Solomon Dacres in just 80 seconds in December 2024. Adeleye is eager to make a statement in front of a home-country crowd. Taiwo Agbaje – Eshepo Taiwo Agbaje, known as “Eshepo,” is a fast-rising heavyweight prospect from Lagos, Nigeria. With an undefeated record of 18 wins and 0 losses, Agbaje is known for his explosive combinations and iron chin. He will face a formidable opponent on the Lagos card, and fans can expect fireworks. Emmanuel Odiase Emmanuel Odiase is a 6’8″ heavyweight prospect backed by Anthony Joshua. With a perfect record of 9 wins and zero losses, including eight knockouts, Odiase is coming off a dominant first-round knockout victory over Idris Afinni in October 2025. The bout, promoted by Amir Khan Promotions, saw Odiase drop Afinni three times, showcasing his power and precision. Shiloh DeFreitas – Sugar Shy Shiloh DeFreitas, nicknamed “Sugar Shy,” is a bantamweight prospect with an undefeated record of 6 wins and zero losses. Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, DeFreitas promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. His most recent bout was a split decision victory over Jessie Lartey over the summer. Step-Up Night for Rising Stars This isn’t just another fight night—it’s a platform for prospects to step into the global spotlight. Khan, celebrated for his ability to identify and nurture talent, has meticulously crafted the Lagos card to showcase fighters ready for career-defining moments. Fans should expect intense rivalries, tactical battles, and knockout-filled bouts across multiple weight classes. Amir Khan Promotions: Building Boxing’s Future Khan’s promotional ventures have always prioritized giving talent the stage to shine. By partnering with Balmoral Group Promotions, Queensberry Promotions, and the WBC, Chaos in the Ring will provide both thrilling fights and international exposure for emerging stars. With December 19 fast approaching, boxing fans in Lagos—and around the world—are bracing for a night where dreams collide with destiny. This isn’t just another fight night; it’s a step forward for the next generation of world-class talent showcased in Africa. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.

California-based promoter Patrick Ragan, the driving force behind Westside Promotions, outlined his vision for the future exclusively to World Boxing News. Ragan has rapidly emerged as a major player guiding some of boxing’s most promising talents. With an eye on world titles and a stable of hungry prospects, Ragan is bullish about the next 12 months—chief among them the undefeated Alejandro Silva. Silva’s Discipline, Record, and Ambitions At 26-0-1 with 21 knockouts, Silva has quietly built a reputation as one of the most disciplined young fighters in the sport. “Alejandro has faced some strong opposition on his way to 26-0-1,” Ragan tells WBN. “He’s put in the work, cleared every hurdle, and stays in the gym between fights. He’s training for greatness, and his dedication shows in every punch he throws.” For Ragan, a world title shot is the ultimate goal for Silva. “Yes, absolutely—that’s the aim,” he says. “Alejandro wants that title very badly, and it’s my job to put him in a position for the opportunity. He’s proven he belongs with the top fighters in his division. We’re campaigning him against the best opposition to make sure he’s sharp and ready. “When the world title shot comes, he’ll be ready to get the W. Alejandro is a very special talent, and I can’t wait to show the world just how good he is.” Silva’s Colombian TKO Showcase Silva’s recent outing in Colombia showcased his elite talent. Ragan explains: “He displayed incredible patience on his way to a seventh-round TKO. His opponent was a solid boxer with heavy hands, but Alejandro controlled the pace, set traps, and used his defense perfectly to land the uppercut that ended the fight. That’s ten KOs in a row now. “The last time he went the distance was June 2021, a 10-round unanimous decision. His ceiling is enormous, and the best is yet to come.” Busy 12-Month Plan Looking ahead, Ragan plans to keep Silva active and sharp. “Over the next 12 months, it’s about keeping him fighting,” he says. “He’s hungry. He’s currently training in Argentina, and we’re working to have him settled in Los Angeles and appearing on a couple of our shows in Northern California early next year.” When it comes to potential matchups, Ragan is measured but ambitious. “The 154lb division is stacked. There are great fighters and champions I’d like to see him face—fights that would elevate both fighters and be instant classics. Alejandro can punch, he can box, he has solid defense, and a great chin. “For now, we’ll keep him busy against top opposition. Securing regional and smaller international titles is part of the blueprint. The world title will present itself, and when it does, he’ll be ready.” Rising Stars: Blackwell and Walker Silva isn’t the only prospect Ragan is excited about. Heavyweight Jett Blackwell, 5-0-1 at 24, is rapidly rising through the ranks. “Jett had an outstanding amateur career with 10 national titles, three years with Team USA, and international experience,” Ragan explains. “He’s been finding his power, with his last two fights ending in KOs. He’ll fight on October 25th on the Virgil and Denean Hills Quicksilver Promotions card in North Dakota in a six-round battle. “I have plans for him in 2026, and the heavyweight division has a lot of young talent, so I’m really excited about what’s ahead for Jett.” Ragan is equally optimistic about lightweight Jalan ‘Sky’ Walker. At 14-1-1, the 23-year-old boxer-puncher impressed in his last outing with an eight-round unanimous decision over Jerry Perez. “Jalan will also fight on October 25th in another eight-round bout,” Ragan says. “He’s going to make some noise in 2026 and is definitely a prospect to watch.” With a stable blending of undefeated stars like Silva and rising talents such as Blackwell and Walker, Patrick Ragan is positioning Westside Promotions as one of America’s most compelling new promotional outfits and a significant force to watch heading into 2026. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.

Months after promising a boxing revolution to end pay-per-view, Turki Alalshikh, the powerful chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority and self-styled savior of modern boxing, now faces a searing global backlash after a shocking reversal that has made the Ring IV: Night of Champions card a $59.99 PPV—shattering his credibility with fans. The controversy erupted moments after Alalshikh posted a simple, cryptic hype line for Ring IV. Within minutes, replies turned toxic. Fans instantly accused the Saudi powerbroker of a complete U-turn on his pledge that all Riyadh Season boxing events would be free for DAZN subscribers. The $115 Crisis The backlash is intensified by the broader financial picture. DAZN recently announced a package deal where subscribers could watch two Pay-Per-View nights (including the Canelo Alvarez debut and a Times Square card) for $90—with individual purchases still sitting at the steep $59.99 mark. With the addition of charges for other premium events, fans had to pay up to $115 for three PPVs in a single week. This kind of financial burden, historically demanded only a few times a year for mega-fights, signals a dangerous “new normal” that boxing fans are unwilling to accept. Such costs are a far cry from Alalshikh’s previous promise, deepening anger and distrust. Turki Alalshikh’s previous mission to lower PPV charges to a fan-friendly $14.99 and $9.99 across the board appears to be officially dead, replaced by pricing similar to the Premier Boxing Champions model. Fans Erupt Over PPV ‘Lies’ The response was brutal, unfiltered, and relentless—classic Phil Jay territory for capturing raw fan sentiment: “You lied and said this would not be a PPV!” “Thought it was free to DAZN subscribers?” “A PPV that you said wouldn’t happen. Hope you get out of boxing soon.” The fury quickly escalated beyond complaints about pricing. Users labeled Alalshikh a “liar,” “deceiver,” and the “false prophet of free boxing.” The Pay Per View decision for the WBC light heavyweight showdown, Benavidez vs. Yarde, became the lightning rod for outrage: “Boxing brokers have lied enough to the public. Nothing is changing.” “People need to cancel their subscriptions after this blatant lie.” Ring Pass Plan Ignites Fury The stunning PPV u-turn directly contradicts Alalshikh’s solemn July guarantee: “I said it, and I meant it: boxing should be accessible, and no fan should pay extra for fights if they already subscribe,” he had declared, promising to abolish the “damaged” PPV model starting with this very November card. Instead, DAZN is reportedly ready to roll out the deeply unpopular ‘Ring Pass’ tier—a “subscription on top of a subscription”—forcing fans to pay again for fights previously promised free. Trust in Alalshikh’s word, once a cornerstone of Saudi boxing’s global appeal, has been shattered. Stacked Card in Crisis Ring IV is undeniably a marquee event. On paper, it reads like a heavyweight showcase of modern talent: David Benavidez defends his WBC light heavyweight title against Anthony Yarde, Devin Haney takes on Brian Norman Jr. for the WBO welterweight belt, Jesse Rodriguez faces Fernando Martinez, and Abdullah Mason clashes with Sam Noakes. Yet, the PPV uproar now dominates every conversation. Social media chatter threatens to eclipse what should have been a historic night in Riyadh, turning excitement into anger and casting doubt on the card’s commercial success. Silence Confirms PR Disaster Alalshikh has remained strategically silent, refusing to publicly address the outrage. In classic high-stakes boxing PR fashion, this silence only fuels speculation and amplifies fan fury. Every hour without comment strengthens the perception of betrayal, jeopardizing not only Ring IV but the credibility of Saudi-backed boxing on the global stage. The verdict from the boxing community is emphatic: fans feel lied to. The only question remaining is just how much damage this single, catastrophic reversal will do to the reputation of the man once heralded as the sport’s visionary. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.

Dave Allen may have finally reached the end of his heavyweight campaign after being dominated by Arslanbek Makhmudov. The British fan favorite is now considering a move to bridgerweight — a division that could offer one last title run. Allen, 33, believes the smaller weight class could open a new path, particularly with Kevin Lerena’s WBC bridgerweight title future uncertain. Should Lerena vacate, a voluntary shot may become available to any fighter inside the Top 15 — a ranking Allen could realistically reach. ‘The White Rhino’ has long struggled against the giants of the heavyweight division, often conceding significant height and reach advantages that left him absorbing unnecessary punishment. Dropping to the 224-pound limit would eliminate any physical mismatch, allowing him to rely on toughness, timing, and stamina rather than brute size. Having been close to that weight when he turned professional in 2012, questions remain over whether Allen can safely make 224 pounds. The “Doncaster De La Hoya” hasn’t been near that mark since 2018. The ‘Ideal’ First Opponent If he can successfully boil down, the bridgerweight picture looks far less congested than heavyweight. Only 34 fighters currently occupy the rankings, and a clash with unbeaten Tommy Welch (16-0) — rated No. 11 — could be Allen’s fastest route to recognition. A win over a Top 15 contender like Welch would instantly earn Allen a WBC rating and place him in prime position for a voluntary title challenge should the belt become vacant. Allen appeared in good shape for Makhmudov on October 11, but dropping another 35 pounds remains a steep task. Still, with his heavyweight ambitions likely over, the Yorkshireman may yet find one last opening — if he’s willing to fight lighter and rebuild for a final run at a world title. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.

Paulie Malignaggi has never been one to shy away from a challenge — or a headline. The former world boxing champion proved as much again on Saturday night, returning to competition at 44 years old and surviving a bruising five-round war with British brawler Tyler Goodjohn in Leeds. The bout, held inside BKB’s signature triangle ring at Planet Ice, saw Malignaggi edge a split decision in what was his first sanctioned fight since 2019. But beyond the result, it was the manner of his return — bloodied, one-eyed, and still showboating — that reminded fans why the “Magic Man” remains one of combat sport’s great characters. “I had to tough it out,” Malignaggi said after the win, his face marked by a deep gash under the right eye. “Tyler was taking no prisoners tonight. I started good, but he came on strong. After that eye poke, I was fighting blind in one eye — I could only see shadows.” The New Yorker’s technical footwork and veteran poise carried him through the chaos. Even when caught by looping hooks and right hands, Malignaggi found ways to control distance, pop the jab, and frustrate Goodjohn, who was unable to break him down completely. What made the performance stand out wasn’t dominance — it was durability. Malignaggi absorbed punishment in a way he rarely had to during his slick boxing career. For a fighter once known for avoiding the trenches due to an ongoing battle with brittle hands, this was a war fought out of sheer pride. Malignaggi Eyes Titles, Defies Critics After years of dismissing the idea of ever fighting again, Malignaggi’s decision to return has reignited interest in veterans crossing into bare-knuckle competition. “I’m here for a good time, not a long time,” he added. “I’d like to get a title shot after this. Nothing satisfies me more than accomplishment — it’s bigger than money. I want that belt at 154, and maybe I’ll drop to 147 for another one.” The win takes Malignaggi to 1-1 in bare-knuckle competition following his 2019 defeat to Artem Lobov under the BKFC banner. But it’s the brutality of the comeback that has drawn both admiration and criticism. Malignaggi, ever defiant, doesn’t seem to care. He plans to keep going, eye patch or not. “Anyone making money in bare-knuckle fighting owes it to Tyler Goodjohn,” he quipped. “That’s why he was chosen over other schmucks calling me out.” If Saturday night proved anything, it’s that Paulie Malignaggi has found a new ring to stir up — one with no gloves, no hiding places, and no regrets. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights.

For the first time in more than a decade, Deontay Wilder—the man who once ruled the WBC heavyweight division with unmatched knockout power—is at risk of being locked out of the title picture he once dominated. The World Boxing Council’s October rankings have dropped Wilder to 13th, a steep tumble from the 10th spot he held after his June stoppage of Tyrrell Herndon. The reason is simple: inactivity. Wilder’s comeback, originally penciled in for fall 2025, has been delayed. Promoter Shelly Finkel told WBN that Wilder was preparing for a return ahead of a massive 2026 showdown. But Finkel now signals a likely January or February return against an opponent that has yet to be confirmed. By that point, Wilder risks falling out of the WBC top 15 entirely—effectively closing the door on a voluntary title shot against reigning champion Oleksandr Usyk, which WBN understands the Ukrainian is considering before retirement. “I won’t get into speculating on Deontay’s next fight, but Eddie did reach out about the Dave Allen fight,” Finkel told WBN. “After Dave fights on October 11 and Deontay fights, we will see.” However, with Allen falling short against Makhmudov, that option appears dead. The big Russian himself, though, could now be a target, offering Wilder a path back into the heavyweight conversation. Current WBC Heavyweight Rankings 1 | Lawrence Okolie | GB | Silver 2 | Daniel Dubois | GB | 3 | Anthony Joshua | GB | 4 | Moses Itauma | GB | COMM *CBP/P 5 | Filip Hrgovic | Croatia | 6 | Efe Ajagba | Nigeria/US | 7 | Martin Bakole | Congo/GB | 8 | Frank Sanchez | Cuba | 9 | Zhilei Zhang | China | 10 | Bakhodir Jalolov | Uzbekistan | 11 | Richard Torrez Jr | US | NABF 12 | Guido Vianello | Italy | *CBP/P 13 | Deontay Wilder | US | 14 | Dereck Chisora | GB | 15 | Jared Anderson | US | Wilder’s slide underscores just how unforgiving the heavyweight division has become. Fighters like Jalolov, Torres, and Vianello have overtaken him simply by staying active, sharp, and fresh. With Usyk firmly in control and contenders like Joshua, Hrgovic, and Okolie jostling for position, any further delay could see Wilder fighting merely to maintain relevance in the rankings. Early Knockout Rampage Wilder first broke into the WBC Top 15 in December 2012, dispatching Kelvin Price via third-round knockout at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. Between 2013 and 2014, he tore through the heavyweight division with a series of first-round stoppages, quickly becoming one of boxing’s most feared young heavyweights. The year 2013 opened with a win over Matthew Greer, quickly followed by a high-profile victory against Audley Harrison in Sheffield, England, dropping the former Olympic gold medalist in round one. Former world champion Siarhei Liakhovich fell in the opening round next, proving Wilder was as unstoppable as he was powerful. Knockouts over Nicolai Firtha and Malik Scott added to his momentum. Wilder capped this decisive run against Jason Gavern, forcing a fourth-round retirement after multiple knockdowns. In just over a year, six consecutive stoppages cemented his reputation as the WBC’s top challenger—a force the division could not ignore. Rise, Reign, and Recent Struggles After defeating Bermane Stiverne in early 2015, Wilder began a five-year reign as WBC champion—the most dominant in years since Vitali Klitschko—defending his belt multiple times with his trademark power. The 2020 dethronement at the hands of Tyson Fury marked the beginning of a decline, though Wilder remained the number one-ranked contender well past their trilogy. Only losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang pushed him down the ladder. Even after stopping Herndon, Wilder slides again from 10th to 13th. For a man once untouchable, staying active is no longer optional—it’s survival. Deontay Wilder Heavyweight Title Comeback The coming months are critical. A delayed return could render Wilder ineligible for a voluntary title shot, forcing him to climb the rankings from scratch. Staying sharp, active, and marketable is now as much about survival as it is about pride. With the likes of Torres, Jalolov, and Vianello ahead of him, the Bronze Bomber faces a race against time. For Wilder, the fight isn’t just in the ring anymore—it’s against the clock, against inactivity, and against a new generation of heavyweights eager to take his spot. About the Author Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.

The Justice for Arturo Gatti Jr. Fund nears its $28k goal after a $10k spit donation from World Gym owner Michael Sanciprian.

Dana White’s Zuffa-backed ‘Ali Revival Act’ (H.R. 4624) is a threat to boxing, warns APBC, as Nico Ali Walsh slams the bill backed by Lonnie Ali.

Kell Brook will honor the late Ricky Hatton’s legacy in the most fitting way possible—by stepping into the ring where his friend and fellow British icon was

Boxing prospect Odel Kamara opens up on his World Championship bronze, vowing to target Olympic Gold for Team GB in 2028.

The WBC Grand Prix semi-finals concluded with USA's last hope, Dante Stone, falling to Kevin Ramírez as eight contenders reach the final.

WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman reacts with deep sadness to Paulie Malignaggi's severe bare-knuckle injuries and his shocking hospital ordeal.

BoxRec introduces "Hybrid Professional" for the Jake Paul vs. Gervonta Davis exhibition, preserving the result without affecting official records.

Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk speaks out on his decision to leave the frontline and what the Ukrainian soldiers asked him to do instead.

Paulie Malignaggi won his BKB comeback against Tyler Goodjohn via split decision despite a severe eye poke that left him "nearly blind.

Former world-ranked boxer Avtandil Khurtsidze fought to a draw in Brooklyn after a 2017 RICO conviction and a violent prison stabbing.

Danny Garcia flattened Danny Gonzalez with a one-punch KO at Barclays Center. "I don't know if I'm done yet," said the former champ.

Fans erupt after DAZN sets a $59.99 PPV for David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde, contradicting Turki Alalshikh's promise to end the PPV model.

Manny Pacquiao’s team informs WBN that Rolly Romero remains the target, despite a WBA mandatory order putting the title in jeopardy.

Oleksandr Usyk plans to fight until he is 41. WBN breaks down the four most likely heavyweights, including Tyson Fury and Moses Itauma.

Undefeated boxer Abel Mendoza (42-0) has signed with Al Haymon's PBC, leading many to believe his padded record will be 'exposed' at 140lbs.

World Boxing News reports Indistry Media reveals what fans can expect from Manny Pacquiao’s 2026 return — an event “unlike anything before.”