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By Scott Shaffer | September 18, 2025

Beloved writer Tom Gerbasi passes away suddenly
Universally respected combat sports writer Thomas Gerbasi passed away suddenly earlier this week. His death came just days after the publication of his latest book, The 100 Greatest Fighters. Fellow journalist Kevin Iole wrote this tribute to Gerbasi: "I am devastated by the unexpected passing of my long-time friend Thomas Gerbasi He was one of the greatest men I knew, and we shared so many common interests: The Steelers, boxing, MMA, music, Italian food and good burgers. I never managed to get into roller derby, but hey… We traveled the world together and had so much fun. He was stricken on Sunday and passed on Monday. He was a devoted father and if you looked at his Facebook page just once, you know what an incredible grandfather he was. The world is a lot darker now without him in it. My deepest condolences to his wife, Sonia, his daughter, Jordan and his entire family and many, many friends." Promoter Lou DiBella offered these kind words, "I am crushed right now. Writer/editor Tom Gerbasi has been a trusted friend and someone I've admired for decades. We just caught up on life, reminisced, and commiserated on boxing for over an hour on Saturday. He was great and we were talking about life being good ... and now he is gone. He was a talent, a total professional, a funny, kind, and honest guy, a great husband, father, and grandfather. There is not a negative word I can say, or have heard said, about Tom Gerbasi. Please pray for the family he was so proud of and leaves behind too soon. This week has hit hard. I will miss another friend; fly with the angels, Tommy." Michael Woods, one of Gerbasi's peers in the New York press community, wrote, "People will remember you by how you made them feel. Tom made you feel like smiling or chuckling, 99% of the time. Really humble and generous with his time and energy. Really rare to see a high level worker encourage others on the come up. He was not insecure, he was an incredibly consistent churner. Lifted people up. Was a genuine good one." Boxingtalk joins everyone who knew Tom Gerbasi in sending our deepest sympathies to Tom's wife Sonia, and all of Tom's friends and family.
	Beloved writer Tom Gerbasi passes away suddenly Universally respected combat sports writer Thomas Gerbasi passed away suddenly earlier this week. His death came just days after the publication of his latest book, The 100 Greatest Fighters. Fellow journalist Kevin Iole wrote this tribute to Gerbasi: "I am devastated by the unexpected passing of my long-time friend Thomas Gerbasi He was one of the greatest men I knew, and we shared so many common interests: The Steelers, boxing, MMA, music, Italian food and good burgers. I never managed to get into roller derby, but hey… We traveled the world together and had so much fun. He was stricken on Sunday and passed on Monday. He was a devoted father and if you looked at his Facebook page just once, you know what an incredible grandfather he was. The world is a lot darker now without him in it. My deepest condolences to his wife, Sonia, his daughter, Jordan and his entire family and many, many friends." Promoter Lou DiBella offered these kind words, "I am crushed right now. Writer/editor Tom Gerbasi has been a trusted friend and someone I've admired for decades. We just caught up on life, reminisced, and commiserated on boxing for over an hour on Saturday. He was great and we were talking about life being good ... and now he is gone. He was a talent, a total professional, a funny, kind, and honest guy, a great husband, father, and grandfather. There is not a negative word I can say, or have heard said, about Tom Gerbasi. Please pray for the family he was so proud of and leaves behind too soon. This week has hit hard. I will miss another friend; fly with the angels, Tommy." Michael Woods, one of Gerbasi's peers in the New York press community, wrote, "People will remember you by how you made them feel. Tom made you feel like smiling or chuckling, 99% of the time. Really humble and generous with his time and energy. Really rare to see a high level worker encourage others on the come up. He was not insecure, he was an incredibly consistent churner. Lifted people up. Was a genuine good one." Boxingtalk joins everyone who knew Tom Gerbasi in sending our deepest sympathies to Tom's wife Sonia, and all of Tom's friends and family.

By Scott Shaffer | September 18, 2025

Eubank Jr. puts British commissioner on blast!
At a press conference for his rematch vs. Conor Benn, Chris Eubank Jr. blasts the British boxing commission and its General Secretary: "I want to talk about the British Boxing Board of Control and more specifically, a man by the name of Robert Smith. This is the big boss behind the scenes, the head honcho. The man with all the power that controls everything that goes on in professional boxing inside the United Kingdom. This guy's a big deal, he really is. Now this idiot allowed a room full of media and cameramen into my private weigh-in the day before the [first Connor Benn] fight. The time that it took to get these people out contributed to me missing the weight and getting fined 500K. He let Conor Benn fight in gloves filled with horsehair knowing it was a direct breach of the contract we had for this fight. On fight night, he personally escorted an arch-nemesis of mine, Billy Joe Saunders, to my changing room to disrupt and try and ruin my preparations for the biggest fight of my life. And then afterwards, he gets into the ring and is trying to shake my hand and congratulate me... I mean, the balls on this guy. It's viciously clear for me to see that this toad is nothing more than a puppet and a pawn. I think he is in the back pocket of Matchroom and Eddie Hearn. Unfortunately just another scumbag in this treacherous and underhanded industry we find ourselves in." Eubank won their first encounter in April by unanimous decision. The rematch will take place on November 15th in England's Tottenham Stadium.
	Eubank Jr. puts British commissioner on blast! At a press conference for his rematch vs. Conor Benn, Chris Eubank Jr. blasts the British boxing commission and its General Secretary: "I want to talk about the British Boxing Board of Control and more specifically, a man by the name of Robert Smith. This is the big boss behind the scenes, the head honcho. The man with all the power that controls everything that goes on in professional boxing inside the United Kingdom. This guy's a big deal, he really is. Now this idiot allowed a room full of media and cameramen into my private weigh-in the day before the [first Connor Benn] fight. The time that it took to get these people out contributed to me missing the weight and getting fined 500K. He let Conor Benn fight in gloves filled with horsehair knowing it was a direct breach of the contract we had for this fight. On fight night, he personally escorted an arch-nemesis of mine, Billy Joe Saunders, to my changing room to disrupt and try and ruin my preparations for the biggest fight of my life. And then afterwards, he gets into the ring and is trying to shake my hand and congratulate me... I mean, the balls on this guy. It's viciously clear for me to see that this toad is nothing more than a puppet and a pawn. I think he is in the back pocket of Matchroom and Eddie Hearn. Unfortunately just another scumbag in this treacherous and underhanded industry we find ourselves in." Eubank won their first encounter in April by unanimous decision. The rematch will take place on November 15th in England's Tottenham Stadium.

Source: WBC | September 18, 2025

WBC orders Mbilli to give Martinez a rematch
Following Saturday's intense and thrilling super middleweight war between Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martínez, in which Mbilli defended his interim WBC super middleweight title and the fight ended in a draw, Martínez’s team requested a direct rematch. WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán reported that the request was submitted to the WBC Board of Governors, which unanimously approved the matchup and ordered free negotiations to arrange the rematch. BOXINGTALK COVERAGE FROM SEPT. 14, 2025: In an absolute thriller of a fight between undefeated super middleweights, Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martinez (19-0-1, 16 KOs) battled to a split draw after ten action-packed rounds. Although he does not get the hype he deserves, Mbilli, a former French Olympian now fighting out of Quebec, was, and still is considered a future champion by boxing's hardcore fans. Mbilli and Martinez took turns punishing each other with both men showing incredible chins and energy over the fast-paced fight. The stalemate verdict allows Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) to retain his WBC interim super middleweight title.
	WBC orders Mbilli to give Martinez a rematch Following Saturday's intense and thrilling super middleweight war between Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martínez, in which Mbilli defended his interim WBC super middleweight title and the fight ended in a draw, Martínez’s team requested a direct rematch. WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán reported that the request was submitted to the WBC Board of Governors, which unanimously approved the matchup and ordered free negotiations to arrange the rematch. BOXINGTALK COVERAGE FROM SEPT. 14, 2025: In an absolute thriller of a fight between undefeated super middleweights, Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martinez (19-0-1, 16 KOs) battled to a split draw after ten action-packed rounds. Although he does not get the hype he deserves, Mbilli, a former French Olympian now fighting out of Quebec, was, and still is considered a future champion by boxing's hardcore fans. Mbilli and Martinez took turns punishing each other with both men showing incredible chins and energy over the fast-paced fight. The stalemate verdict allows Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) to retain his WBC interim super middleweight title.

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Fundora: "I grew up watching Thurman. He’s a great fighter"

Source: PBC | September 18, 2025

Fundora: "I grew up watching Thurman. He’s a great fighter"
WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will look to make another huge statement in the loaded 154-pound division when he takes on former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman on a PBC pay-per-view on Prime Video taking place Saturday, October 25th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Coming into the ring after a dominant victory in his rematch against former champion Tim Tszyu in July, Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) shared the aggressive mindset that he and his team put into place after winning by decision in their first contest. “It was demolition,” said Fundora, who’s trained by his father, leading Trainer of the Year candidate Freddy Fundora. “We wanted to follow through and get him out of there. We wanted him to feel defeated before the fight ended and show that nothing he could do could hurt us. He said after the fight that he felt like he was shadowboxing and that’s what we plan to make every fighter feel like. Whether it’s my height or strength, we want the opponent to feel like it’s impossible to win.” Fundora added that in addition to he and his father’s confidence leading into the fight, his sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela, believed that the stoppage was coming. “We expected to hurt him,” said Fundora, who dropped Tszyu in the first round. “I know what I can do and my dad does as well. Even my sister, she was talking a lot more than me about what we expected. It was a surprise to everyone else, but it wasn’t a surprise to us. Right after the first Tszyu fight ended, I felt like we could have done a lot more. So we went back to the gym and trained for a long time to show everyone that I can get that guy out of there.” As he heads into this next matchup, Fundora has been in training alongside his sister ahead of her undisputed title defense this weekend. With both of the historic Fundora siblings fighting in close calendar proximity, Sebastian has used the opportunity to pick up things from his sister’s training sessions. “Training together absolutely makes us both better,” said Fundora, who along with Gabriela make up the only brother and sister duo in boxing history to hold simultaneous world titles. “Watching her spar and watching her train, especially since she’s a southpaw as well, it helps me pick up little tricks and strategies and put them into my training and my work. She’s gonna do her thing and defend her crown and then I’ll be right after to defend my title.” The 27-year-old Fundora will take on the most accomplished opponent of his career in the former unified welterweight world champion Thurman, a fighter who was competing on the sport’s biggest stage while Fundora was still coming up. “I grew up watching Thurman,” said Fundora. “A lot of his bigger fights we watched all the time. I’ve always thought he’s a great fighter. I can’t say I expected to one day fight Thurman, but I knew it was possible because I always want the toughest fights and now we’re here.” With back-to-back stoppage victories, Fundora reiterated that he’ll be looking to make it three straight on October 25th. Although him and Thurman have inverse personalities outside of the ring, Fundora believes that they share a similar thirst for action inside the squared circle. “This is gonna be a crazy night,” said Fundora. “It’s a huge fight with two guys who like to bang. Expect fireworks. I feel like this fight sells itself. Thurman is the big talker and I’m the quiet guy, but we both like to throw. It’s gonna be a great night for boxing. “We’re going for the knockout, but I just need to get the win however it comes. A win over Thurman solidifies us being the best in the division even more.”
	Fundora: "I grew up watching Thurman. He’s a great fighter" WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will look to make another huge statement in the loaded 154-pound division when he takes on former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman on a PBC pay-per-view on Prime Video taking place Saturday, October 25th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Coming into the ring after a dominant victory in his rematch against former champion Tim Tszyu in July, Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) shared the aggressive mindset that he and his team put into place after winning by decision in their first contest. “It was demolition,” said Fundora, who’s trained by his father, leading Trainer of the Year candidate Freddy Fundora. “We wanted to follow through and get him out of there. We wanted him to feel defeated before the fight ended and show that nothing he could do could hurt us. He said after the fight that he felt like he was shadowboxing and that’s what we plan to make every fighter feel like. Whether it’s my height or strength, we want the opponent to feel like it’s impossible to win.” Fundora added that in addition to he and his father’s confidence leading into the fight, his sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela, believed that the stoppage was coming. “We expected to hurt him,” said Fundora, who dropped Tszyu in the first round. “I know what I can do and my dad does as well. Even my sister, she was talking a lot more than me about what we expected. It was a surprise to everyone else, but it wasn’t a surprise to us. Right after the first Tszyu fight ended, I felt like we could have done a lot more. So we went back to the gym and trained for a long time to show everyone that I can get that guy out of there.” As he heads into this next matchup, Fundora has been in training alongside his sister ahead of her undisputed title defense this weekend. With both of the historic Fundora siblings fighting in close calendar proximity, Sebastian has used the opportunity to pick up things from his sister’s training sessions. “Training together absolutely makes us both better,” said Fundora, who along with Gabriela make up the only brother and sister duo in boxing history to hold simultaneous world titles. “Watching her spar and watching her train, especially since she’s a southpaw as well, it helps me pick up little tricks and strategies and put them into my training and my work. She’s gonna do her thing and defend her crown and then I’ll be right after to defend my title.” The 27-year-old Fundora will take on the most accomplished opponent of his career in the former unified welterweight world champion Thurman, a fighter who was competing on the sport’s biggest stage while Fundora was still coming up. “I grew up watching Thurman,” said Fundora. “A lot of his bigger fights we watched all the time. I’ve always thought he’s a great fighter. I can’t say I expected to one day fight Thurman, but I knew it was possible because I always want the toughest fights and now we’re here.” With back-to-back stoppage victories, Fundora reiterated that he’ll be looking to make it three straight on October 25th. Although him and Thurman have inverse personalities outside of the ring, Fundora believes that they share a similar thirst for action inside the squared circle. “This is gonna be a crazy night,” said Fundora. “It’s a huge fight with two guys who like to bang. Expect fireworks. I feel like this fight sells itself. Thurman is the big talker and I’m the quiet guy, but we both like to throw. It’s gonna be a great night for boxing. “We’re going for the knockout, but I just need to get the win however it comes. A win over Thurman solidifies us being the best in the division even more.”

Source: WBC | September 18, 2025

Cameron gets chance to reclaim WBC 140-pound title
WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán announced that Chantelle Cameron will face Sandy Ryan for the newly vacated WBC 140-pound championship. The title was vacted yesterday when world champion Katie Taylor was transferred to the WBC's "emeritus champion" or "champion in recess" designation. “She [Taylor] let us know that she plans to take some time away from the ring to attend to personal matters.," said Sulaiman. Cameron (pictured) has a 21-1 record and was the world champion in the junior welterweight division until she split two 2023 fights with Taylor, winning the first but losing her titles in the second. She now holds the WBC's interim title belt. Ryan is 8-3-1 and a former welterweight champion who lost twice to Mikaela Mayer in the past twelve months, once controversially and once legitimately. According to the WBC, a "champion in recess" is: "a special recognition granted by to boxers who have had an outstanding career and achieved elite status in the sport. It is not a regular championship title defended in the ring, but rather a lifetime honor given in specific situations, such as injuries, personal issues that will keep them away from the sport for a period, moving up in weight class. The designation allows the title to be vacated so other fighters can compete for it and keep the division active, while granting the boxer a special status and the possibility of returning to fight for the belt in the future." PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE SEPT. 17, 2025: According to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC Board of Governors unanimously voted in favor of appointing Katie Taylor to WBC emeritus champion status. Taylor, the world champion at 140 pounds, last fought in April, defeating multi-divison champion Amanda Serrano for the third time. The WBC's move allows the sanctioning body to appoint two contenders to compete for Taylor's now-vacant title. Sulaiman wrote, "We wish our proud champion great success in the future and she may return to the ring in case she decides to do so to continue representing the green belt."
	Cameron gets chance to reclaim WBC 140-pound title WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán announced that Chantelle Cameron will face Sandy Ryan for the newly vacated WBC 140-pound championship. The title was vacted yesterday when world champion Katie Taylor was transferred to the WBC's "emeritus champion" or "champion in recess" designation. “She [Taylor] let us know that she plans to take some time away from the ring to attend to personal matters.," said Sulaiman. Cameron (pictured) has a 21-1 record and was the world champion in the junior welterweight division until she split two 2023 fights with Taylor, winning the first but losing her titles in the second. She now holds the WBC's interim title belt. Ryan is 8-3-1 and a former welterweight champion who lost twice to Mikaela Mayer in the past twelve months, once controversially and once legitimately. According to the WBC, a "champion in recess" is: "a special recognition granted by to boxers who have had an outstanding career and achieved elite status in the sport. It is not a regular championship title defended in the ring, but rather a lifetime honor given in specific situations, such as injuries, personal issues that will keep them away from the sport for a period, moving up in weight class. The designation allows the title to be vacated so other fighters can compete for it and keep the division active, while granting the boxer a special status and the possibility of returning to fight for the belt in the future." PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE SEPT. 17, 2025: According to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC Board of Governors unanimously voted in favor of appointing Katie Taylor to WBC emeritus champion status. Taylor, the world champion at 140 pounds, last fought in April, defeating multi-divison champion Amanda Serrano for the third time. The WBC's move allows the sanctioning body to appoint two contenders to compete for Taylor's now-vacant title. Sulaiman wrote, "We wish our proud champion great success in the future and she may return to the ring in case she decides to do so to continue representing the green belt."

By Kirk Lang | September 18, 2025

Connecticut Hall of Fame announces class of 2025
Waterford, Connecticut native Elizabeth Mueller, who won the International Women’s Boxing Federation world lightweight title in 2001, heads the 2025 induction class for the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Matt Godfrey, Scott Pemberton, Peter Manfredo Sr., Joe Cusano and Steve Epstein will join Mueller as part of the class that will be honored at the CBHOF annual dinner on Oct. 18th at the Mohegan Sun Ballroom in Uncasville. Katie Taylor, the current world junior welterweight champion-- who is from Ireland but resides in Vernon, Connecticut and trains at the Manchester Ring of Champions Society, will receive the Pro Fighter of the Year honor. Taylor, along with her rival Amanda Serrano, are the only female fighters to headline a sell-out fight card at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Taylor is trained by Ross Enamait of Waterford and he was named the CBHOF Trainer of the Year. "To have Katie Taylor, considered by many to be the best female fighter in the world at this junction, to be honored at our induction dinner adds to the prestige of our event,'' said Sherman Cain, secretary for the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.'' After a storied career as a track athlete at Waterford High, Mueller tried her hand at boxing. She became a decorated amateur. In 1999, Mueller was a National Golden Gloves champion, a silver medalist at the World Cup in Finland, and a USA Boxing nation champion. In 1998, she was a National Police Athletic League champion and also captured a Bud Belt title. Now age 50, Mueller compiled an 8-2 record as a pro, beating Jaime Clampitt twice. The second win was by unanimous decision, giving Mueller the IWBF title. After the second loss to Mueller, Clampitt would go on to win eight straight fights and later capture the same title. Mueller retired after the second victory over Clampitt. A six-time New England Gloves champion, Godfrey was a National Golden Gloves heavyweight champion in 2002 and a U.S. National Amateur heavyweight champion in 2004. The Providence native was a second alternate for the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Godfrey compiled a 21-3 record as a pro. He won thwo regional titles and fought for the WBO cruiserweight title in 2010, losing to Marco Huck by TKO in Germany. Pemberton compiled a professional record of 29-6-1 while earning a reputation as someone who would take on all comers. Among his most notable foes were Charles Brewer, Omar Sheika, Jeff Lacy, James Crawford and Peter Manfredo Jr. Pemberton beat Sheika twice. The Fairhaven, Mass., native to Brewer and Lacy, both world champions. Lacy was 20-0 when he scored a KO over Pemberton in an IBF world super middleweight title bout in November of 2005. Pemberton retired after losing to Manfredo in February of 2006. Manfredo is a renowned boxing coach who guided his son Peter Jr. to an IBO middleweight title. Cusano has spent three decades officiating both amateur and professional bouts. He served for several years as the chief of officials for Connecticut USA Boxing. As a member of the IBF, Epstein judged 30 world title fights before his passing in 2014. Daniel Hernandez is the CBHOF Amateur of the Year. Ricky Gonzalez has been named the Pro Official of the Year. Lee Deer has been selected as the Amateur Official of the Year. Kenny Reels will receive the Courage Award. Miguel Ayala will be the recipient of the Contribution to Boxing Award. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com.
	Connecticut Hall of Fame announces class of 2025 Waterford, Connecticut native Elizabeth Mueller, who won the International Women’s Boxing Federation world lightweight title in 2001, heads the 2025 induction class for the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Matt Godfrey, Scott Pemberton, Peter Manfredo Sr., Joe Cusano and Steve Epstein will join Mueller as part of the class that will be honored at the CBHOF annual dinner on Oct. 18th at the Mohegan Sun Ballroom in Uncasville. Katie Taylor, the current world junior welterweight champion-- who is from Ireland but resides in Vernon, Connecticut and trains at the Manchester Ring of Champions Society, will receive the Pro Fighter of the Year honor. Taylor, along with her rival Amanda Serrano, are the only female fighters to headline a sell-out fight card at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Taylor is trained by Ross Enamait of Waterford and he was named the CBHOF Trainer of the Year. "To have Katie Taylor, considered by many to be the best female fighter in the world at this junction, to be honored at our induction dinner adds to the prestige of our event,'' said Sherman Cain, secretary for the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.'' After a storied career as a track athlete at Waterford High, Mueller tried her hand at boxing. She became a decorated amateur. In 1999, Mueller was a National Golden Gloves champion, a silver medalist at the World Cup in Finland, and a USA Boxing nation champion. In 1998, she was a National Police Athletic League champion and also captured a Bud Belt title. Now age 50, Mueller compiled an 8-2 record as a pro, beating Jaime Clampitt twice. The second win was by unanimous decision, giving Mueller the IWBF title. After the second loss to Mueller, Clampitt would go on to win eight straight fights and later capture the same title. Mueller retired after the second victory over Clampitt. A six-time New England Gloves champion, Godfrey was a National Golden Gloves heavyweight champion in 2002 and a U.S. National Amateur heavyweight champion in 2004. The Providence native was a second alternate for the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Godfrey compiled a 21-3 record as a pro. He won thwo regional titles and fought for the WBO cruiserweight title in 2010, losing to Marco Huck by TKO in Germany. Pemberton compiled a professional record of 29-6-1 while earning a reputation as someone who would take on all comers. Among his most notable foes were Charles Brewer, Omar Sheika, Jeff Lacy, James Crawford and Peter Manfredo Jr. Pemberton beat Sheika twice. The Fairhaven, Mass., native to Brewer and Lacy, both world champions. Lacy was 20-0 when he scored a KO over Pemberton in an IBF world super middleweight title bout in November of 2005. Pemberton retired after losing to Manfredo in February of 2006. Manfredo is a renowned boxing coach who guided his son Peter Jr. to an IBO middleweight title. Cusano has spent three decades officiating both amateur and professional bouts. He served for several years as the chief of officials for Connecticut USA Boxing. As a member of the IBF, Epstein judged 30 world title fights before his passing in 2014. Daniel Hernandez is the CBHOF Amateur of the Year. Ricky Gonzalez has been named the Pro Official of the Year. Lee Deer has been selected as the Amateur Official of the Year. Kenny Reels will receive the Courage Award. Miguel Ayala will be the recipient of the Contribution to Boxing Award. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com.

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Introducing Washington D.C. lightweight Scooter Davis

Source: Top Rank | September 18, 2025

Introducing Washington D.C. lightweight Scooter Davis
Lightweight knockout artist Scooter Davis(8-0, 8 KOs), the latest talent to emerge from Washington, D.C., has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 23-year old trains with Barry Hunter at the Headbangers Boxing Gym, a capital city landmark that has developed generations of world champions and contenders. “When I saw Scooter fight up close, it was clear that I was watching a future world champion. He is an exceptionally nice young man, but when he steps in the ring, he has a real mean streak,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Mark my words: Scooter Davis will be the next superstar from Washington, D.C.” “This is a testament to my hard work and God's plan for me. People weren’t knocking down my door to sign me when I turned pro, but I trusted the process,” Davis said. “The fact that Top Rank saw something in me means so much. I’m ready to do my thing and show the world what I’m about.” Davis turned pro in early 2023 after going 158-17 as an amateur. He’s sparred with a host of elite professionals at Headbangers, including Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Stephen Fulton, Lamont Peterson, Shawn Porter, and Isaac Dogboe. Davis tallied five first-round knockouts in his first six fights before an eye-opening second-round KO over Naheem Parker on the Abdullah Mason-Jeremia Nakathila undercard in June. Earlier this month, he knocked out Leandro Damian Medina in two rounds in front of a hometown crowd at CareFirst Arena. Davis is managed by his father, Deric, who coached him in Pop Warner football as a youngster before the duo turned their full attention to the fight game. They hope to follow in the footsteps of current and past D.C. boxing luminaries such as Peterson, Lamont Roach Jr., and Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, all of whom won world titles and brought championship boxing events to the city. Davis said, “The city is family. They supported me throughout my amateur career. As I continue to win, they continue to invest their time in me. It fuels me to put on a show for my city. They have a real one, and I will do things the right way.”
	Introducing Washington D.C. lightweight Scooter Davis Lightweight knockout artist Scooter Davis(8-0, 8 KOs), the latest talent to emerge from Washington, D.C., has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 23-year old trains with Barry Hunter at the Headbangers Boxing Gym, a capital city landmark that has developed generations of world champions and contenders. “When I saw Scooter fight up close, it was clear that I was watching a future world champion. He is an exceptionally nice young man, but when he steps in the ring, he has a real mean streak,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Mark my words: Scooter Davis will be the next superstar from Washington, D.C.” “This is a testament to my hard work and God's plan for me. People weren’t knocking down my door to sign me when I turned pro, but I trusted the process,” Davis said. “The fact that Top Rank saw something in me means so much. I’m ready to do my thing and show the world what I’m about.” Davis turned pro in early 2023 after going 158-17 as an amateur. He’s sparred with a host of elite professionals at Headbangers, including Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Stephen Fulton, Lamont Peterson, Shawn Porter, and Isaac Dogboe. Davis tallied five first-round knockouts in his first six fights before an eye-opening second-round KO over Naheem Parker on the Abdullah Mason-Jeremia Nakathila undercard in June. Earlier this month, he knocked out Leandro Damian Medina in two rounds in front of a hometown crowd at CareFirst Arena. Davis is managed by his father, Deric, who coached him in Pop Warner football as a youngster before the duo turned their full attention to the fight game. They hope to follow in the footsteps of current and past D.C. boxing luminaries such as Peterson, Lamont Roach Jr., and Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, all of whom won world titles and brought championship boxing events to the city. Davis said, “The city is family. They supported me throughout my amateur career. As I continue to win, they continue to invest their time in me. It fuels me to put on a show for my city. They have a real one, and I will do things the right way.”

Press Release | September 18, 2025

A few words with Kaipo Gallegos
Lightweight Kaipo Gallegos (9-0-1, 7 KOs) steps into the ring for an eight-round showdown against Puerto Rican veteran Alberto Mercado (17-8-1, 4 KOs) on Friday, September 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The bout is part of Boxlab Promotions’ “Night of Champions” series and will be streamed live on BXNGTV. Gallegos, a 19 year-old southpaw from Las Vegas, looks to notch his fourth victory of the year when he faces Mercado. Here is what Gallegos, who is co-promoted with Shuan Boxing, had to say about his matchup with Mercado, his recent training camp, staying busy, and more: On his upcoming matchup, Gallegos emphasized the challenge that Mercado presents. “Alberto’s been in with some solid guys, and he’s got experience, so I know I have to be sharp. But I’m ready for whatever he brings. I respect him, but I plan to dominate. Every fight is a step forward—and I’m climbing fast with this matchup.” Gallegos recently wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas under the guidance of his father and head coach, Jayson Gallegos. “Being in Vegas for this camp with my dad is always a blessing. We locked in and ready to go. No distractions—just focus, hard rounds, and growth. Training alongside world-class fighters out here has only added to my confidence. I’m feeling sharper than ever. This camp has been all business.” In an era where activity is everything, Gallegos is grateful for the pace of his career. “A lot of young fighters sit on the shelf, but my promoters are keeping me moving and I’m super thankful. Fighting at least four times in a year…that’s old-school work and exactly what I wanted. It’s how I stay sharp, stay hungry, and keep getting better.” With his eyes on the future, Gallegos knows what’s at stake on September 19th. “A win over a veteran like Mercado puts me right where I need to be. It shows I’m not just some prospect—I’m a problem in this division. After this, I want bigger fights, tougher opponents, and maybe a title shot by 2026. A win here kicks open more doors.” Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, expressed confidence in Gallegos’ potential and trajectory. “Kaipo’s growth has been impressive to watch—inside and outside the ring. He’s got the tools, the attitude, and the fan appeal to go a long way in this sport. If he takes care of business on September 19, the possibilities are endless. He’s earning every opportunity, and we’re proud to keep giving him the stage to shine. Kaipo’s a future star—no question.” This event is brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with, Undisputed Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
	A few words with Kaipo Gallegos Lightweight Kaipo Gallegos (9-0-1, 7 KOs) steps into the ring for an eight-round showdown against Puerto Rican veteran Alberto Mercado (17-8-1, 4 KOs) on Friday, September 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The bout is part of Boxlab Promotions’ “Night of Champions” series and will be streamed live on BXNGTV. Gallegos, a 19 year-old southpaw from Las Vegas, looks to notch his fourth victory of the year when he faces Mercado. Here is what Gallegos, who is co-promoted with Shuan Boxing, had to say about his matchup with Mercado, his recent training camp, staying busy, and more: On his upcoming matchup, Gallegos emphasized the challenge that Mercado presents. “Alberto’s been in with some solid guys, and he’s got experience, so I know I have to be sharp. But I’m ready for whatever he brings. I respect him, but I plan to dominate. Every fight is a step forward—and I’m climbing fast with this matchup.” Gallegos recently wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas under the guidance of his father and head coach, Jayson Gallegos. “Being in Vegas for this camp with my dad is always a blessing. We locked in and ready to go. No distractions—just focus, hard rounds, and growth. Training alongside world-class fighters out here has only added to my confidence. I’m feeling sharper than ever. This camp has been all business.” In an era where activity is everything, Gallegos is grateful for the pace of his career. “A lot of young fighters sit on the shelf, but my promoters are keeping me moving and I’m super thankful. Fighting at least four times in a year…that’s old-school work and exactly what I wanted. It’s how I stay sharp, stay hungry, and keep getting better.” With his eyes on the future, Gallegos knows what’s at stake on September 19th. “A win over a veteran like Mercado puts me right where I need to be. It shows I’m not just some prospect—I’m a problem in this division. After this, I want bigger fights, tougher opponents, and maybe a title shot by 2026. A win here kicks open more doors.” Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, expressed confidence in Gallegos’ potential and trajectory. “Kaipo’s growth has been impressive to watch—inside and outside the ring. He’s got the tools, the attitude, and the fan appeal to go a long way in this sport. If he takes care of business on September 19, the possibilities are endless. He’s earning every opportunity, and we’re proud to keep giving him the stage to shine. Kaipo’s a future star—no question.” This event is brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with, Undisputed Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

By Scott Shaffer | September 17, 2025

WBC vacates Katie Taylor's title
According to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC Board of Governors unanimously voted in favor of appointing Katie Taylor to WBC emeritus champion status. Taylor, the world champion at 140 pounds, last fought in April, defeating multi-divison champion Amanda Serrano for the third time. The WBC's move allows the sanctioning body to appoint two contenders to compete for Taylor's now-vacant title. Sulaiman wrote, "We wish our proud champion great success in the future and she may return to the ring in case she decides to do so to continue representing the green belt."
	WBC vacates Katie Taylor's title According to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC Board of Governors unanimously voted in favor of appointing Katie Taylor to WBC emeritus champion status. Taylor, the world champion at 140 pounds, last fought in April, defeating multi-divison champion Amanda Serrano for the third time. The WBC's move allows the sanctioning body to appoint two contenders to compete for Taylor's now-vacant title. Sulaiman wrote, "We wish our proud champion great success in the future and she may return to the ring in case she decides to do so to continue representing the green belt."

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Report: Ajagba withdraws from IBF elimination process

Source: Sky Sports | September 17, 2025

Report: Ajagba withdraws from IBF elimination process
UPDATE: According to a Sky Sports social media post, Efe Ajagba has withdrawn from the IBF elimination process, opening the door for rising heavyweight Moses Itauma to join the mix for an IBF eliminator against Frank Sanchez. It remains unknown if Sanchez would agree to an Itauma fight. On August 26th, Sampson Lewkowicz's Sampson Boxing won a purse bid for the the right to promote an IBF eliminator between Sanchez and Ajagba, but at a price where the purses would be very unattractive to the boxers. Sampson's winning bid was $302,000, which would be split 60% for Ajagba and 40% for Sanchez, assuming both men accepted the fight. Top Rank, Ajagba's promoter, put up a losing bid for $210,000. Under IBF rules, Sampson must schedule the bout to take place within 28 and 90 days and not more than 90 days from today, which is Monday, November 24th. PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE AUG. 19, 2025: A purse bid for an IBF heavyweight eliminator is back on the books after a few previous postponements.. The promotional rights to a potential Frank Sanchez vs. Efe Ajagba rematch is scheduled to be auctioned off on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 12 noon. Sanchez defeated Ajagba by unanimous decision in 2021, but with heavyweight contenders Filip Hrgovic and Derek Chisora jockeying for bigger fights, Sanchez and Ajagba are the two highest ranked fighters in the IBF ratings to enter the elimination process. Undefeated world champion Oleksandr Usyk owns all four major heavyweight titles, including the IBF version. AUG. 11, 2025: The IBF announced that the Efe Ajagba vs. Frank Sanchez purse bid has been postponed until further notice. AUG. 4, 2025: When Filip Hrgovic pulled out of the IBF heavyweight elimination process, on July 24th, the IBF ordered #3 ranked Efe Ajagba and #4 ranked Frank Sanchez to begin negotiations for an eliminator for the vacant #1 position. Derek Chisora sits at #2. Carl Moretti of Top Rank, representing Ajagba, confirmed that Ajagba would like to proceed straight to a purse bid, which is permitted under IBF rules. The IBF initially scheduled a purse for Tuesday, August 5th but that has now been pushed back one week until August 12th. Oleksandr Usyk owns all four major heavyweight titles, including the IBF version. MAY 19, 2024: In a WBC heavyweight eliminator held on the big Riyadh, Saudi Arabia show, Agit Kabayel (25-0, 17 KOs) made a huge career move forward, stopping the favored and previously undefeated Frank Sanchez (24-1, 17 KOs) in round seven. Kabayel defeated Sanchez with a strong body attack. The normally mobile Sanchez fought with a brace on his right knee. Kabayel is Kurdish but lives in Germany. OCT. 10, 2021: Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez (19-0, 13 KOs) scored one knockdown on his way to a comfortable, ten-round unanimous decision win over Efe Ajagba. Sanchez used his superior boxing skills to keep the hard-hitting Ajagba (15-1, 12 KOs) off-balance for the entire fight. The “Cuban Flash” displayed his power as well, flooring Ajagba with a hard right in the seventh. A follow-up left hook which landed a tick after Ajagba’s knee hit the canvas Ajagba made it to his feet and survived the round but never seriously threatened on his way to the first defeat of his career. Sanchez said afterwards, "I knew I was going to win all the rounds because I’m much better than him technically. I knew that if I connected, he would fall and he did fall. My game plan was always to frustrate him and go in for the attack."
	Report: Ajagba withdraws from IBF elimination process UPDATE: According to a Sky Sports social media post, Efe Ajagba has withdrawn from the IBF elimination process, opening the door for rising heavyweight Moses Itauma to join the mix for an IBF eliminator against Frank Sanchez. It remains unknown if Sanchez would agree to an Itauma fight. On August 26th, Sampson Lewkowicz's Sampson Boxing won a purse bid for the the right to promote an IBF eliminator between Sanchez and Ajagba, but at a price where the purses would be very unattractive to the boxers. Sampson's winning bid was $302,000, which would be split 60% for Ajagba and 40% for Sanchez, assuming both men accepted the fight. Top Rank, Ajagba's promoter, put up a losing bid for $210,000. Under IBF rules, Sampson must schedule the bout to take place within 28 and 90 days and not more than 90 days from today, which is Monday, November 24th. PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE AUG. 19, 2025: A purse bid for an IBF heavyweight eliminator is back on the books after a few previous postponements.. The promotional rights to a potential Frank Sanchez vs. Efe Ajagba rematch is scheduled to be auctioned off on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 12 noon. Sanchez defeated Ajagba by unanimous decision in 2021, but with heavyweight contenders Filip Hrgovic and Derek Chisora jockeying for bigger fights, Sanchez and Ajagba are the two highest ranked fighters in the IBF ratings to enter the elimination process. Undefeated world champion Oleksandr Usyk owns all four major heavyweight titles, including the IBF version. AUG. 11, 2025: The IBF announced that the Efe Ajagba vs. Frank Sanchez purse bid has been postponed until further notice. AUG. 4, 2025: When Filip Hrgovic pulled out of the IBF heavyweight elimination process, on July 24th, the IBF ordered #3 ranked Efe Ajagba and #4 ranked Frank Sanchez to begin negotiations for an eliminator for the vacant #1 position. Derek Chisora sits at #2. Carl Moretti of Top Rank, representing Ajagba, confirmed that Ajagba would like to proceed straight to a purse bid, which is permitted under IBF rules. The IBF initially scheduled a purse for Tuesday, August 5th but that has now been pushed back one week until August 12th. Oleksandr Usyk owns all four major heavyweight titles, including the IBF version. MAY 19, 2024: In a WBC heavyweight eliminator held on the big Riyadh, Saudi Arabia show, Agit Kabayel (25-0, 17 KOs) made a huge career move forward, stopping the favored and previously undefeated Frank Sanchez (24-1, 17 KOs) in round seven. Kabayel defeated Sanchez with a strong body attack. The normally mobile Sanchez fought with a brace on his right knee. Kabayel is Kurdish but lives in Germany. OCT. 10, 2021: Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez (19-0, 13 KOs) scored one knockdown on his way to a comfortable, ten-round unanimous decision win over Efe Ajagba. Sanchez used his superior boxing skills to keep the hard-hitting Ajagba (15-1, 12 KOs) off-balance for the entire fight. The “Cuban Flash” displayed his power as well, flooring Ajagba with a hard right in the seventh. A follow-up left hook which landed a tick after Ajagba’s knee hit the canvas Ajagba made it to his feet and survived the round but never seriously threatened on his way to the first defeat of his career. Sanchez said afterwards, "I knew I was going to win all the rounds because I’m much better than him technically. I knew that if I connected, he would fall and he did fall. My game plan was always to frustrate him and go in for the attack."

Press Release | September 17, 2025

Danny Garcia comeback to be shown on pay-per-view
Former two-division champion Danny "Swift" Garcia announced that his return to the ring will stream exclusively on Millions.co with a pay-per-view broadcast on Saturday, October 18th from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The broadcast can be purchased for $50 here. Titled "Farewell to Brooklyn," the event marks Garcia's final bow at Barclays Center, the New York City arena that has become a second home for him throughout his storied career. This will be Garcia's second fight in the past three years. His opponent will be local man Danny Gonzalez (22-4-1) who is coming off a good win in late 2024. "Brooklyn and the Barclays Center have been a special part of my journey, and I can't wait to give the fans one last unforgettable night there," said Garcia, who is the event's promoter. "But this fight is more than just a return; it's about the future. As a promoter with Swift Promotions and as an athlete, I’ve felt the pain that Millions solves. It’s a struggle to easily sell merch, create streams, launch a podcast, or get brand deals. Millions makes it easier than ever. They'll do over 500 pay-per-view events this year, and after I met with the team, I was excited to invest and bring Swift Promotions to the platform. I'm looking to build a blueprint for fighters to take control of their own careers." “We’re thrilled to have Danny Garcia as an investor in the company. He’s an icon in boxing and understands exactly what we’re building and the opportunity in front of us,” says Matt Whitteker CEO at Millions.co. “We got to spend a weekend talking boxing & business strategy together earlier this year and both teams knew it was a great fit.” The event will feature a full undercard, which will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for the live event are available for purchase now through Ticketmaster.
	Danny Garcia comeback to be shown on pay-per-view Former two-division champion Danny "Swift" Garcia announced that his return to the ring will stream exclusively on Millions.co with a pay-per-view broadcast on Saturday, October 18th from Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The broadcast can be purchased for $50 here. Titled "Farewell to Brooklyn," the event marks Garcia's final bow at Barclays Center, the New York City arena that has become a second home for him throughout his storied career. This will be Garcia's second fight in the past three years. His opponent will be local man Danny Gonzalez (22-4-1) who is coming off a good win in late 2024. "Brooklyn and the Barclays Center have been a special part of my journey, and I can't wait to give the fans one last unforgettable night there," said Garcia, who is the event's promoter. "But this fight is more than just a return; it's about the future. As a promoter with Swift Promotions and as an athlete, I’ve felt the pain that Millions solves. It’s a struggle to easily sell merch, create streams, launch a podcast, or get brand deals. Millions makes it easier than ever. They'll do over 500 pay-per-view events this year, and after I met with the team, I was excited to invest and bring Swift Promotions to the platform. I'm looking to build a blueprint for fighters to take control of their own careers." “We’re thrilled to have Danny Garcia as an investor in the company. He’s an icon in boxing and understands exactly what we’re building and the opportunity in front of us,” says Matt Whitteker CEO at Millions.co. “We got to spend a weekend talking boxing & business strategy together earlier this year and both teams knew it was a great fit.” The event will feature a full undercard, which will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for the live event are available for purchase now through Ticketmaster.

Source: WBF | September 17, 2025

Turkish boxing update
Azerbaijani heavyweight Taryel Jafarov will take on Venezuela's Klismans Bolano on September 27th in Fethiye, Turkiye. The fight serves as the chief support to the Hasan Kubilay Alcu vs. Luciano Falcao cruiserweight main event, which headlines the card promoted by TJ Boxing Promotions. Jafarov (39-8 with 37 KOs) turned pro in 2017 and has boxed all over the world, including in Georgia, Russia, Pakistan, Ghana, Dubai, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Egypt and Bosnia & Herzegovina, besides his native Azerbaijan and several times in Turkey. In the process he has campaigned at both heavyweight and cruiserweight. With five straight victories. Bolano (8-1, 7 KOs), is a dangerous obstacle for him. The 34-year-old is hungry to rebound, after losing his last bout to Octavio Pudivitr in Colombia. Jafarov is clearly the favorite going in, but Bolano has made it clear that he is coming to Turkey to cause an upset. As for the main event, it will be a battle of undefeated, as Falcao is 11-0 and Kubilay Alcu is 18-0 but both are largely untested. Kubilay Alcu has the advantage, as heis fighting in his hometown.
	Turkish boxing update Azerbaijani heavyweight Taryel Jafarov will take on Venezuela's Klismans Bolano on September 27th in Fethiye, Turkiye. The fight serves as the chief support to the Hasan Kubilay Alcu vs. Luciano Falcao cruiserweight main event, which headlines the card promoted by TJ Boxing Promotions. Jafarov (39-8 with 37 KOs) turned pro in 2017 and has boxed all over the world, including in Georgia, Russia, Pakistan, Ghana, Dubai, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Egypt and Bosnia & Herzegovina, besides his native Azerbaijan and several times in Turkey. In the process he has campaigned at both heavyweight and cruiserweight. With five straight victories. Bolano (8-1, 7 KOs), is a dangerous obstacle for him. The 34-year-old is hungry to rebound, after losing his last bout to Octavio Pudivitr in Colombia. Jafarov is clearly the favorite going in, but Bolano has made it clear that he is coming to Turkey to cause an upset. As for the main event, it will be a battle of undefeated, as Falcao is 11-0 and Kubilay Alcu is 18-0 but both are largely untested. Kubilay Alcu has the advantage, as heis fighting in his hometown.

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Netflix takes a victory lap for Canelo-Crawford ratings

Source: Netflix | September 17, 2025

Netflix takes a victory lap for Canelo-Crawford ratings
Netflix reports that the broadcast of Terence Crawford's win over Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on Sautrday was "the most-viewed men’s championship boxing match this century. It also broke Allegiant Stadium’s attendance records with 70,482 visitors at the Las Vegas event... In an unforgettable night at Allegiant Stadium this past weekend, boxing fans showed up for this history-making fight. Canelo vs. Crawford knocked out the competition to obtain the No. 1 spot on the English TV list with 17.7 million views for the entire broadcast and an estimated 41.4 million viewers who tuned in to watch the main event."
	Netflix takes a victory lap for Canelo-Crawford ratings Netflix reports that the broadcast of Terence Crawford's win over Saul "Canelo" Alvarez on Sautrday was "the most-viewed men’s championship boxing match this century. It also broke Allegiant Stadium’s attendance records with 70,482 visitors at the Las Vegas event... In an unforgettable night at Allegiant Stadium this past weekend, boxing fans showed up for this history-making fight. Canelo vs. Crawford knocked out the competition to obtain the No. 1 spot on the English TV list with 17.7 million views for the entire broadcast and an estimated 41.4 million viewers who tuned in to watch the main event."

Press Release | September 17, 2025

Franklin and Salita announce an amicable split
Salita Promotions and heavyweight boxer Jermaine Franklin have mutually agreed to end a promotional agreement effective immediately. Franklin is fresh off last weekend's career rejuvenating win over two-time Olympic medal winner Ivan Dychko. Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions, said, "at Salita Promotions, we pride ourselves on being able to discover precious gems, unearth them and polished them into world champions. When I first met Jermaine Franklin at a boxing gym in Saginaw, Michigan in 2018, I knew he had all the skills and the personality to become a big star on the American heavyweight boxing scene. He was talented but unknown. He was a club fighter at the time, but clearly, I could tell, he was destined for much more. I am grateful for the years we worked together, building and eventually engaging in big fights against big opponents on every platform. Now, he’s one of the best American heavyweights in the world. We wish him the best. I expect even greater achievements for him in the future." Franklin saidm, "I would like to thank Salita Promotions for the last seven years helping the world know who Jermaine Franklin is. Salita Promotions gave me my first TV fight and introduced me to boxings fan who did not know me. I am grateful for that. My experience with Salita has prepared me to move forward and embark on a new journey on my own. I wish him success going forward."
	Franklin and Salita announce an amicable split Salita Promotions and heavyweight boxer Jermaine Franklin have mutually agreed to end a promotional agreement effective immediately. Franklin is fresh off last weekend's career rejuvenating win over two-time Olympic medal winner Ivan Dychko. Dmitriy Salita, president of Salita Promotions, said, "at Salita Promotions, we pride ourselves on being able to discover precious gems, unearth them and polished them into world champions. When I first met Jermaine Franklin at a boxing gym in Saginaw, Michigan in 2018, I knew he had all the skills and the personality to become a big star on the American heavyweight boxing scene. He was talented but unknown. He was a club fighter at the time, but clearly, I could tell, he was destined for much more. I am grateful for the years we worked together, building and eventually engaging in big fights against big opponents on every platform. Now, he’s one of the best American heavyweights in the world. We wish him the best. I expect even greater achievements for him in the future." Franklin saidm, "I would like to thank Salita Promotions for the last seven years helping the world know who Jermaine Franklin is. Salita Promotions gave me my first TV fight and introduced me to boxings fan who did not know me. I am grateful for that. My experience with Salita has prepared me to move forward and embark on a new journey on my own. I wish him success going forward."

Source: Boxlab Promotions | September 17, 2025

Kevin Brown to headline in Orlando
Junior welterweight Kevin Brown (7-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring on Friday, September 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida on a Boxlab Promotions show that will be streamed live on BXNGTV. Tickets are on sale now at ticketmaster.com. The Cuban Brown will face Mexico's Juan Meza Angulo (9-2, 6 KOs) in a scheduled ten-round bout. Brown, who recently wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas under the guidance of coach Ismael Salas, shared insights on his preparation and mindset going into this pivotal fight. Here is what he had to say: On his recent training camp in Las Vegas with coach Ismael Salas: “Training in Las Vegas with Coach Salas has taken me to a different level—mentally, physically, and technically. Every day we focus on sharpening my skills and improving my ring IQ. This has been my most focused and intense camp yet.” On his matchup with Juan Meza Angulo: “Juan Meza is a tough, hungry fighter. I respect what he brings to the ring, but I’m coming to make a statement. Styles make fights, and I believe mine will break him down. I’m prepared for whatever he brings.” I’m not just here to win—I’m here to dominate and move closer to a world title shot.” On being grateful to his team and promoters for giving him this opportunity: “I’m incredibly thankful to my team, to Coach Salas, and to my promoters—Boxlab and Warriors Boxing. Without their belief in me and their support, none of this would be possible. I’m proud to represent them every time I step into the ring.” Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, spoke with pride and optimism about Brown’s progress and what fans can expect from the rising star. “Kevin Brown is taking big strides every time he steps in the ring. His growth as a seasoned fight is getting better. What he’s shown so far is just the beginning of what he’s capable of. We believe he has all the tools to become a world champion, and we’re honored to guide him on that path. Fans in Orlando are in for something exceptional on September 19th.” The “Night of Champions” series continues to showcase elite-level boxing talent in world-class settings, and Kevin Brown’s return promises to be one of the highlights of the year. . This event is brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with, Undisputed Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
	Kevin Brown to headline in Orlando Junior welterweight Kevin Brown (7-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring on Friday, September 19th at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida on a Boxlab Promotions show that will be streamed live on BXNGTV. Tickets are on sale now at ticketmaster.com. The Cuban Brown will face Mexico's Juan Meza Angulo (9-2, 6 KOs) in a scheduled ten-round bout. Brown, who recently wrapped up training camp in Las Vegas under the guidance of coach Ismael Salas, shared insights on his preparation and mindset going into this pivotal fight. Here is what he had to say: On his recent training camp in Las Vegas with coach Ismael Salas: “Training in Las Vegas with Coach Salas has taken me to a different level—mentally, physically, and technically. Every day we focus on sharpening my skills and improving my ring IQ. This has been my most focused and intense camp yet.” On his matchup with Juan Meza Angulo: “Juan Meza is a tough, hungry fighter. I respect what he brings to the ring, but I’m coming to make a statement. Styles make fights, and I believe mine will break him down. I’m prepared for whatever he brings.” I’m not just here to win—I’m here to dominate and move closer to a world title shot.” On being grateful to his team and promoters for giving him this opportunity: “I’m incredibly thankful to my team, to Coach Salas, and to my promoters—Boxlab and Warriors Boxing. Without their belief in me and their support, none of this would be possible. I’m proud to represent them every time I step into the ring.” Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, spoke with pride and optimism about Brown’s progress and what fans can expect from the rising star. “Kevin Brown is taking big strides every time he steps in the ring. His growth as a seasoned fight is getting better. What he’s shown so far is just the beginning of what he’s capable of. We believe he has all the tools to become a world champion, and we’re honored to guide him on that path. Fans in Orlando are in for something exceptional on September 19th.” The “Night of Champions” series continues to showcase elite-level boxing talent in world-class settings, and Kevin Brown’s return promises to be one of the highlights of the year. . This event is brought to you by Boxlab Promotions in association with, Undisputed Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

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Alalshikh says he owes Alvarez two more fights

Compiled By Scott Shaffer | September 16, 2025

Alalshikh says he owes Alvarez two more fights
Turki Alalshikh, who bankrolled last weekend's Terence Crawford vs, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez world super middleweight championship fight, paid a visit to the now ex-champion, Alvarez, and tweeted the followjng: "I just visited the champ in his place. He will soon start his vacation with his family. He has two fights left with Riyadh Season in 2026. We offered him to work with us until he quits and retires. I want go give a special thank you to Canelo for the special gift. He gave me the gloves [from] the fight, and I appreciate it very much." PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE SEPT. 15, 2025: Saul "Canelo" Alvarez issued this social media comment after his loss to Terence Crawford: "I feel very proud of everything I've achieved so far; we always want to win, but I accept this defeat with humility and learning. I am very grateful to my team for all the sacrifices we've made together over all these years. I already won because I have my family with me and millions of fans who have never stopped supporting me ¡Viva México, Cabrones!" IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev commented on the fight: "My congratulations to Crawford — he showed very smart boxing, but Canelo allowed him to do it! You can’t rely on landing a single punch for the whole fight at this level!"
	Alalshikh says he owes Alvarez two more fights Turki Alalshikh, who bankrolled last weekend's Terence Crawford vs, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez world super middleweight championship fight, paid a visit to the now ex-champion, Alvarez, and tweeted the followjng: "I just visited the champ in his place. He will soon start his vacation with his family. He has two fights left with Riyadh Season in 2026. We offered him to work with us until he quits and retires. I want go give a special thank you to Canelo for the special gift. He gave me the gloves [from] the fight, and I appreciate it very much." PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE SEPT. 15, 2025: Saul "Canelo" Alvarez issued this social media comment after his loss to Terence Crawford: "I feel very proud of everything I've achieved so far; we always want to win, but I accept this defeat with humility and learning. I am very grateful to my team for all the sacrifices we've made together over all these years. I already won because I have my family with me and millions of fans who have never stopped supporting me ¡Viva México, Cabrones!" IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev commented on the fight: "My congratulations to Crawford — he showed very smart boxing, but Canelo allowed him to do it! You can’t rely on landing a single punch for the whole fight at this level!"

Press Release | September 16, 2025

Fights return to NYC's Times Square on Friday
Boxing Insider Promotions returns to Sony Hall in Times Square on Friday, September 19th with lightweight Kurt Scoby headlining and heavyweight Josh Popper making his New York City debut in the revived "Broadway Boxing" series. Scoby (17-1) returns in the main event against Alex Martin (19-8), who is coming off a big win on Boxing Insider’s July show against Daiyaan Butt. Popper (4-0) will battle Braxton Smith, a bare knuckle and MMA veteran making his traditional boxing debut. TIckets for the live event can be purchased here and at the Sony Hall box office. The matches will air on tape delay on SNY, the home of Broadway Boxing for eighteen years, available in 14 million homes in the NY Metropolitan region and beyond. Streaming to be announced soon. This marks Boxing Insider's twelftth event at Sony Hall, which is located at 235 W 46th Street, just off Times Square. UNDERCARD Also on the card, George Arias (18-1-1) faces Earl Newman (10-4-1) in an all-New York heavyweight clash pitting Bronx against Brooklyn... Super middleweight Nadim Salloum, perhaps the first professional boxer from Lebanon, faces Andres Martinez in his return to New York... Junior middleweights Armando Barbier and Ricardo Jimenez will duke out another New York rivalry, between natives of Yonkers and Harlem and ... In another super middleweight contest, Donte Layne makes his third appearance on a Boxing Insider card against the rugged Mirady Zola.
	Fights return to NYC's Times Square on Friday Boxing Insider Promotions returns to Sony Hall in Times Square on Friday, September 19th with lightweight Kurt Scoby headlining and heavyweight Josh Popper making his New York City debut in the revived "Broadway Boxing" series. Scoby (17-1) returns in the main event against Alex Martin (19-8), who is coming off a big win on Boxing Insider’s July show against Daiyaan Butt. Popper (4-0) will battle Braxton Smith, a bare knuckle and MMA veteran making his traditional boxing debut. TIckets for the live event can be purchased here and at the Sony Hall box office. The matches will air on tape delay on SNY, the home of Broadway Boxing for eighteen years, available in 14 million homes in the NY Metropolitan region and beyond. Streaming to be announced soon. This marks Boxing Insider's twelftth event at Sony Hall, which is located at 235 W 46th Street, just off Times Square. UNDERCARD Also on the card, George Arias (18-1-1) faces Earl Newman (10-4-1) in an all-New York heavyweight clash pitting Bronx against Brooklyn... Super middleweight Nadim Salloum, perhaps the first professional boxer from Lebanon, faces Andres Martinez in his return to New York... Junior middleweights Armando Barbier and Ricardo Jimenez will duke out another New York rivalry, between natives of Yonkers and Harlem and ... In another super middleweight contest, Donte Layne makes his third appearance on a Boxing Insider card against the rugged Mirady Zola.

Source: WBC | September 16, 2025

Tiara Brown to defend her title this week
Tiara “Dark Menace” Brown will defend her WBC featherweight championship on September 20th. Her opponent will be Emma “Valkyria” Gongora of France in a bout to be held at the Bayou Music Center in Houston as the co-feature of the OTX 16 event. Brown won the title earlier this year after defeating Skye Nicholson by split decision and enters the fight with a perfect record of 19 wins, 11 by knockout. This will be her first title defense. Gongoranlost her first two pro bouts, but has has success after moving down in weight. She sports a record of 10-3-1 with 1 KO.
	Tiara Brown to defend her title this week Tiara “Dark Menace” Brown will defend her WBC featherweight championship on September 20th. Her opponent will be Emma “Valkyria” Gongora of France in a bout to be held at the Bayou Music Center in Houston as the co-feature of the OTX 16 event. Brown won the title earlier this year after defeating Skye Nicholson by split decision and enters the fight with a perfect record of 19 wins, 11 by knockout. This will be her first title defense. Gongoranlost her first two pro bouts, but has has success after moving down in weight. She sports a record of 10-3-1 with 1 KO.

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Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador

Press Release | September 16, 2025

Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador
Heavyweight Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs) will ride a ten-fight win streak into this Saturday night’s (Sept. 20th) show presented by Toro Promotions at Gimnasio Nacional Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, the capital and largest city in El Salvador. te and organize the first international pro boxing event in El Salvador. Matchmaker Whit Haydon has put together Toro’s premier overall card, highlighted by five scheduled ten-round fights.” The 31-year-old Ibeh, the cousin of infamous heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi, hasn’t lost since 2021. The former Canadian pro football player, a native of Nigeria who lives in Phoenix, takes on former world heavyweight title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington (21-6-1, 14 KOs) in the ten-round main event. During his 13-year professional career, Washington has defeated Robert Helenius, Eddie Chambers, and Sherman Williams, in addition to squaring off against champions Deontay Wilder and Charles Martin, as well as top contenders such as Jarell Miller, Amir Mansour, Adam Kownacki and Derek Chisora. This show will be the first chapter in El Salvador president Nayib Bukele’s vision to make his country a center for major boxing events. The El Salvador Boxing Federation appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing and other combat sports in El Salvador. “With El Salvador attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing, Toro Promotions is honored to spearhead this endeavor,” Toro’s promoter Azat Torosyan said. “We are proud to promo UNDERCARD Junior lightweight Austin Brooks (13-0-1, 6 KOs) faces Maxwell Montez in the ten-round co-feature. Brooks, fighting out of San Diego. Brooks, 29, is a slick southpaw, while his Nicaraguan opponent has won 5 of his last 7 fights with one draw. Undefeated Nicaraguan junior lightweight Nilo Guerrero (10-0, 7 KOs), who now lives in Coachella (CA), meets countryman William “El Chatel” Vargas (9-5, 3 KOs) in a ten-round bout. Twenty-year-old twin brothers, El Paso (TX) prospects Ari Bonilla (4-0, 2 KOs) and Andrey Bonilla (4-0, 3 KOs), will be showcased in a pair of ten rounders. 2022 World Youth Amateur Champion, Ari Bonilla faces Asbel “Chocolatito” Bolaina (6-3, 0 KOs) at 130 pounds, while Andrey, a 2024 Mexican Elite National Champion as an amateur, meets Isaac Martinez Barragan (6-0, 2 KOs) in the bantamweight division. An eight-round fight on “Legacy Nights” undercard features California heavyweights Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-5-1, 7 KOs) and Juan Torres (17-7-2, 9 KOs) in a battle of big men. The 6’ 4”, 280-pound Flores will have a decisive physical advantage over the 6’ 1”, 252-pound Torres. Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are heavyweight Jack May (10-1, 9 KOs) and junior welterweight Samuel Contreras (2-0, 1 KO), respectively, against Abraham Pascual (15-11, 3 KOs) and Cristopher Ramirez Moreno (4-4, 3 KOs). Card subject to change.
	Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador Heavyweight Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs) will ride a ten-fight win streak into this Saturday night’s (Sept. 20th) show presented by Toro Promotions at Gimnasio Nacional Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, the capital and largest city in El Salvador. te and organize the first international pro boxing event in El Salvador. Matchmaker Whit Haydon has put together Toro’s premier overall card, highlighted by five scheduled ten-round fights.” The 31-year-old Ibeh, the cousin of infamous heavyweight Ike Ibeabuchi, hasn’t lost since 2021. The former Canadian pro football player, a native of Nigeria who lives in Phoenix, takes on former world heavyweight title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington (21-6-1, 14 KOs) in the ten-round main event. During his 13-year professional career, Washington has defeated Robert Helenius, Eddie Chambers, and Sherman Williams, in addition to squaring off against champions Deontay Wilder and Charles Martin, as well as top contenders such as Jarell Miller, Amir Mansour, Adam Kownacki and Derek Chisora. This show will be the first chapter in El Salvador president Nayib Bukele’s vision to make his country a center for major boxing events. The El Salvador Boxing Federation appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing and other combat sports in El Salvador. “With El Salvador attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing, Toro Promotions is honored to spearhead this endeavor,” Toro’s promoter Azat Torosyan said. “We are proud to promo UNDERCARD Junior lightweight Austin Brooks (13-0-1, 6 KOs) faces Maxwell Montez in the ten-round co-feature. Brooks, fighting out of San Diego. Brooks, 29, is a slick southpaw, while his Nicaraguan opponent has won 5 of his last 7 fights with one draw. Undefeated Nicaraguan junior lightweight Nilo Guerrero (10-0, 7 KOs), who now lives in Coachella (CA), meets countryman William “El Chatel” Vargas (9-5, 3 KOs) in a ten-round bout. Twenty-year-old twin brothers, El Paso (TX) prospects Ari Bonilla (4-0, 2 KOs) and Andrey Bonilla (4-0, 3 KOs), will be showcased in a pair of ten rounders. 2022 World Youth Amateur Champion, Ari Bonilla faces Asbel “Chocolatito” Bolaina (6-3, 0 KOs) at 130 pounds, while Andrey, a 2024 Mexican Elite National Champion as an amateur, meets Isaac Martinez Barragan (6-0, 2 KOs) in the bantamweight division. An eight-round fight on “Legacy Nights” undercard features California heavyweights Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-5-1, 7 KOs) and Juan Torres (17-7-2, 9 KOs) in a battle of big men. The 6’ 4”, 280-pound Flores will have a decisive physical advantage over the 6’ 1”, 252-pound Torres. Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are heavyweight Jack May (10-1, 9 KOs) and junior welterweight Samuel Contreras (2-0, 1 KO), respectively, against Abraham Pascual (15-11, 3 KOs) and Cristopher Ramirez Moreno (4-4, 3 KOs). Card subject to change.

Press Release | September 16, 2025

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan dominate World Boxing Championships
Sunday was the final day of action at the World Boxing Championships 2025 in Liverpool, England. Kazakhstan’s Aibek Oralbay defeat Jahhongir Zokirov of Uzbekistan in the 520th and final bout of the competition to win the super-heavyweight gold medal and ensure his country topped the final medal table with seven golds, one silver and two bronze. Although Uzbekistan secured a higher medal count with eleven, it won fewer golds and had to settle for second place in the medal table, with six golds, two silver and three bronze. After ten days of competition at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, the final day evolved into a shoot-out between the two Asian superpowers which, remarkably, won every one of the men’s categories between them. It proved to be a superb closing day for Kazakhstan which won seven of the eight finals its boxers contested, the only reverse coming in the first bout of the day when Nazym Kyzaibay lost to India’s Minakshi Minakshi at light-flyweight (W48kg). The final outcome at the top of the medal table hinged on two direct matchups between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, with the latter coming out on top in both. The women’s welterweight (W65kg) final between Navbakhor Khamidova of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan’s Aida Abikeyeva was one of the best bouts of the day and after two hard fought rounds between, the Uzbek seemed to have the upper hand. However, the combination of a point off from the referee and terrific onslaught by Abikeyeva saw the Kazak fight back to win 3-0 on the judges’ scorecards. It was a similar story in the last bout of the night where Oralbay won the final round on four judges’ cards to secure the narrowest of 3-2 victories. Speaking via an interpreter in the mixed zone after her welterweight victory, Abikeyev said: "Today is the final. I set a personal goal before Liverpool to become a two-time world champion. Thank God, I reached it. This is the first one. This is for my grandfather. Thanks for the support, Kazakhstan." Other countries which won gold medals on the day included India, Chinese Taipei, Brazil and Ireland – all of them coming in the women’s categories. The day began with nine bouts in the afternoon session which saw victories for Kazakhstan’s Sanzhar Tashkenbay at flyweight (M50kg) and Makhmud Sabrykhan at bantamweight (M55kg), while Uzbekistan enjoyed success with wins for welterweight (65kg) Asadkhuja Muydinkhjaev, light-heavyweight Javokhir Ummataliev and heavyweight (W90kg) Turabek Khabibullaev. The pick of the bouts was the women’s lightweight final between Brazil’s Rebecca De Lima Santos and Aneta Rygielska of Poland. The contest could have gone either way and hinged on a strong second round from the Brazilian, which managed to give her a big enough lead to weather a final round onslaught from the Pole and edge the result 3-2. Another boxer to impress was Ireland’s Aoife O’Rourke, who took control of her middleweight final from the first bell and was rarely troubled on route to a 5-0 win over Busra Isildar of Turkey. O’Rourke said: “I feel incredible, it hasn’t even sunk in yet. Just the whole buzz and the atmosphere here is just, I’m overwhelmed with excitement, enjoyment, everything. It’s an amazing feeling and long may it last." The evening session featured nine more finals which were dominated by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The men’s lightweight final had all the makings of a classic as Brazil’s Luis De Oliveira clashed with Paris 2024 gold medalist Abdumalik Khalokov of Uzbekistan, however it was cut short when an accidental clash of heads led the ringside Doctor to halt the contest. It went to the judges who had Khalokov leading on every card and meant he has now won gold at both the Olympic Games and the World Boxing Championships, without dropping a round. For the home nation, it proved to be a frustrating final session as cruiserweight Teagn Stott and light heavyweight, Emily Asquith, both lost their finals, however the overall competition has been a major success for the hosts that delivered a fantastic Championships in Liverpool and saw English boxers win five medals, including two for hometown boxers, Callum Makin and Odel Kamara, who lit up the tournament. The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, said: “We could not have wished for a better place to host out inaugural World Boxing Championships and I would like to thank the Local Organizing Committee and all of the event partners, GB Boxing, England Boxing, Liverpool City Council, UK Sport and the National Lottery for delivering a fantastic event. All of the feedback I have heard from boxers, coaches and officials this week has been very positive, and everyone has been very happy with the organization, staging and delivery of the event. It has been a festival of world class boxing and has set a very high standard for all future World Boxing events and championships.”
	Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan dominate World Boxing Championships Sunday was the final day of action at the World Boxing Championships 2025 in Liverpool, England. Kazakhstan’s Aibek Oralbay defeat Jahhongir Zokirov of Uzbekistan in the 520th and final bout of the competition to win the super-heavyweight gold medal and ensure his country topped the final medal table with seven golds, one silver and two bronze. Although Uzbekistan secured a higher medal count with eleven, it won fewer golds and had to settle for second place in the medal table, with six golds, two silver and three bronze. After ten days of competition at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, the final day evolved into a shoot-out between the two Asian superpowers which, remarkably, won every one of the men’s categories between them. It proved to be a superb closing day for Kazakhstan which won seven of the eight finals its boxers contested, the only reverse coming in the first bout of the day when Nazym Kyzaibay lost to India’s Minakshi Minakshi at light-flyweight (W48kg). The final outcome at the top of the medal table hinged on two direct matchups between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, with the latter coming out on top in both. The women’s welterweight (W65kg) final between Navbakhor Khamidova of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan’s Aida Abikeyeva was one of the best bouts of the day and after two hard fought rounds between, the Uzbek seemed to have the upper hand. However, the combination of a point off from the referee and terrific onslaught by Abikeyeva saw the Kazak fight back to win 3-0 on the judges’ scorecards. It was a similar story in the last bout of the night where Oralbay won the final round on four judges’ cards to secure the narrowest of 3-2 victories. Speaking via an interpreter in the mixed zone after her welterweight victory, Abikeyev said: "Today is the final. I set a personal goal before Liverpool to become a two-time world champion. Thank God, I reached it. This is the first one. This is for my grandfather. Thanks for the support, Kazakhstan." Other countries which won gold medals on the day included India, Chinese Taipei, Brazil and Ireland – all of them coming in the women’s categories. The day began with nine bouts in the afternoon session which saw victories for Kazakhstan’s Sanzhar Tashkenbay at flyweight (M50kg) and Makhmud Sabrykhan at bantamweight (M55kg), while Uzbekistan enjoyed success with wins for welterweight (65kg) Asadkhuja Muydinkhjaev, light-heavyweight Javokhir Ummataliev and heavyweight (W90kg) Turabek Khabibullaev. The pick of the bouts was the women’s lightweight final between Brazil’s Rebecca De Lima Santos and Aneta Rygielska of Poland. The contest could have gone either way and hinged on a strong second round from the Brazilian, which managed to give her a big enough lead to weather a final round onslaught from the Pole and edge the result 3-2. Another boxer to impress was Ireland’s Aoife O’Rourke, who took control of her middleweight final from the first bell and was rarely troubled on route to a 5-0 win over Busra Isildar of Turkey. O’Rourke said: “I feel incredible, it hasn’t even sunk in yet. Just the whole buzz and the atmosphere here is just, I’m overwhelmed with excitement, enjoyment, everything. It’s an amazing feeling and long may it last." The evening session featured nine more finals which were dominated by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The men’s lightweight final had all the makings of a classic as Brazil’s Luis De Oliveira clashed with Paris 2024 gold medalist Abdumalik Khalokov of Uzbekistan, however it was cut short when an accidental clash of heads led the ringside Doctor to halt the contest. It went to the judges who had Khalokov leading on every card and meant he has now won gold at both the Olympic Games and the World Boxing Championships, without dropping a round. For the home nation, it proved to be a frustrating final session as cruiserweight Teagn Stott and light heavyweight, Emily Asquith, both lost their finals, however the overall competition has been a major success for the hosts that delivered a fantastic Championships in Liverpool and saw English boxers win five medals, including two for hometown boxers, Callum Makin and Odel Kamara, who lit up the tournament. The President of World Boxing, Boris van der Vorst, said: “We could not have wished for a better place to host out inaugural World Boxing Championships and I would like to thank the Local Organizing Committee and all of the event partners, GB Boxing, England Boxing, Liverpool City Council, UK Sport and the National Lottery for delivering a fantastic event. All of the feedback I have heard from boxers, coaches and officials this week has been very positive, and everyone has been very happy with the organization, staging and delivery of the event. It has been a festival of world class boxing and has set a very high standard for all future World Boxing events and championships.”

September 15, 2025

Canelo Alvarez classy in defeat
Saul "Canelo" Alvarez issued this social media comment after his loss to Terence Crawford: "I feel very proud of everything I've achieved so far; we always want to win, but I accept this defeat with humility and learning. I am very grateful to my team for all the sacrifices we've made together over all these years. I already won because I have my family with me and millions of fans who have never stopped supporting me ¡Viva México, Cabrones!" IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev commented on the fight: "My congratulations to Crawford — he showed very smart boxing, but Canelo allowed him to do it! You can’t rely on landing a single punch for the whole fight at this level!"
	Canelo Alvarez classy in defeat Saul "Canelo" Alvarez issued this social media comment after his loss to Terence Crawford: "I feel very proud of everything I've achieved so far; we always want to win, but I accept this defeat with humility and learning. I am very grateful to my team for all the sacrifices we've made together over all these years. I already won because I have my family with me and millions of fans who have never stopped supporting me ¡Viva México, Cabrones!" IBF junior middleweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev commented on the fight: "My congratulations to Crawford — he showed very smart boxing, but Canelo allowed him to do it! You can’t rely on landing a single punch for the whole fight at this level!"

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Perez brings home silver, only U.S medal

Source: USA Boxing | September 15, 2025

Perez brings home silver, only U.S medal
Yoseline Perez concluded her run at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, with a silver medal. Perez earned the honor after narrowly falling 3-2 to Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang in the woen's bantamweight title match on Sunday inside M&S Bank Arena. The Houston native concluded the event as the lone medalist from the United States and did so by winning three of her four bouts in the tournament. In the championship match, Perez faced an opponent that was seven years her senior. Huang is a two-time Olympian from Chinese Taipei. Despite Huang’s more extensive international boxing career, including a bronze medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, two world championships, and multiple medals at the Asian Games, Perez refused to back down throughout the three-round battle. Huang narrowly took the opening round by a 3-2 margin by utilizing her length over Perez to consistently land her jab. During the first intermission, Perez listened to her corner and made the necessary adjustments for round two. Throughout the second round, Perez pressed her Chinese Taipei opponent and routinely slipped Huang’s jab to land critical hooks to the body and uppercuts to the chin. Not only were Perez’s adjustments apparent to the crowd, but the ringside judges also took notice and scored the second round 3-2 in the American’s favor. Heading into the final round, the scorecards were tied at 1-1, setting the stage for a crucial third round for both parties. Throughout the final three minutes of competition, Huang was able to sway the judges, 3-2, earning the right to raise her hand with a final score of 4-1. “I feel good, happy with the performances that I’ve put out this entire year, not just this tournament,” Perez noted following Sunday’s title bout. “It’s been a really good year for me.” Never one to lose a lesson from an experience, Perez remained optimistic when recounting her past year of international competition. She competed in four international tournaments for the United States in 2025, earning three silver medals and one gold medal along the way. Second place is just a reminder that there’s always room for improvement and work that needs to be made in adjustments, so I thank God for that. I’m excited for the next couple of years, until LA 2028!”
	Perez brings home silver, only U.S medal Yoseline Perez concluded her run at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, with a silver medal. Perez earned the honor after narrowly falling 3-2 to Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang in the woen's bantamweight title match on Sunday inside M&S Bank Arena. The Houston native concluded the event as the lone medalist from the United States and did so by winning three of her four bouts in the tournament. In the championship match, Perez faced an opponent that was seven years her senior. Huang is a two-time Olympian from Chinese Taipei. Despite Huang’s more extensive international boxing career, including a bronze medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games, two world championships, and multiple medals at the Asian Games, Perez refused to back down throughout the three-round battle. Huang narrowly took the opening round by a 3-2 margin by utilizing her length over Perez to consistently land her jab. During the first intermission, Perez listened to her corner and made the necessary adjustments for round two. Throughout the second round, Perez pressed her Chinese Taipei opponent and routinely slipped Huang’s jab to land critical hooks to the body and uppercuts to the chin. Not only were Perez’s adjustments apparent to the crowd, but the ringside judges also took notice and scored the second round 3-2 in the American’s favor. Heading into the final round, the scorecards were tied at 1-1, setting the stage for a crucial third round for both parties. Throughout the final three minutes of competition, Huang was able to sway the judges, 3-2, earning the right to raise her hand with a final score of 4-1. “I feel good, happy with the performances that I’ve put out this entire year, not just this tournament,” Perez noted following Sunday’s title bout. “It’s been a really good year for me.” Never one to lose a lesson from an experience, Perez remained optimistic when recounting her past year of international competition. She competed in four international tournaments for the United States in 2025, earning three silver medals and one gold medal along the way. Second place is just a reminder that there’s always room for improvement and work that needs to be made in adjustments, so I thank God for that. I’m excited for the next couple of years, until LA 2028!”

Source: WBC | September 15, 2025

Introducing Umi Ishikawa, interim title holder
Japanese boxer Umi Ishikawa is the WBC female interim minimumweight champion. She achieved this feat on May 3, 2024, in Pathum Thani, Thailand, by defeating Thailand’s Sothita Sitthichai with a second-round knockout. Born on March 21, 1984, in Tokyo, Ishikawa is currently 41 years old, an uncommon age to shine in the lighter divisions, where youth typically dominates. Standing about 5'2" with an orthodox stance, her professional record shows power and determination: 12 wins, 10 of them by knockout, and 3 losses. Her professional career began in 2016, and since then, she has been known for her offensive style, which allowed her to quickly climb the ranks in the Asian scene. In May 2023, she got a quality win in the atomweight (102-pound) division, knocking out Nitinart Plabplerng. In August of the same year, she moved up a weight class and in her second fight at 105 pounds, she defeated Sitthichai with a third-round KO. She has not fought since then. She is hoping for a fight against the current WBC full champion, Costa Rica's Yokasta Valle.
	Introducing Umi Ishikawa, interim title holder Japanese boxer Umi Ishikawa is the WBC female interim minimumweight champion. She achieved this feat on May 3, 2024, in Pathum Thani, Thailand, by defeating Thailand’s Sothita Sitthichai with a second-round knockout. Born on March 21, 1984, in Tokyo, Ishikawa is currently 41 years old, an uncommon age to shine in the lighter divisions, where youth typically dominates. Standing about 5'2" with an orthodox stance, her professional record shows power and determination: 12 wins, 10 of them by knockout, and 3 losses. Her professional career began in 2016, and since then, she has been known for her offensive style, which allowed her to quickly climb the ranks in the Asian scene. In May 2023, she got a quality win in the atomweight (102-pound) division, knocking out Nitinart Plabplerng. In August of the same year, she moved up a weight class and in her second fight at 105 pounds, she defeated Sitthichai with a third-round KO. She has not fought since then. She is hoping for a fight against the current WBC full champion, Costa Rica's Yokasta Valle.

Source: Sky Sports | September 14, 2025

Ricky Hatton dead at age 46
SEPT. 14, 2024: A weekend that was a celebration for boxing ended in tragedy with the announcement of the death of Ricky Hatton at age 46. Hatton was a two-division champion and an iconic and beloved figure in British sport. He was a working class hero in the city of Manchester, England and his 2005 victory over Kostya Tszyu to win the world junior welterweight championship was one of the greatest nights in British boxing history. Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde on Sunday morning. Greater Manchester Police said they are not treating the death as suspicious. A police spokesperson said: "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6.45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances." Hatton held multiple world championships at super-lightweight and one at welterweight during a 15-year professional career. The British boxing great had been due to make a comeback to the ring in December. Hatton's stellar career included epic fights against Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao (both losses), a legendary triumph over Kostya Tszyu. Sky Sports' Craig Slater said British sport has lost someone who truly captured the imagination of the boxing public. "He was a remarkable human being," he said. "I had the great pleasure of knowing him as a friend. I got to know him before he turned professional and this is devastating news for all of us that knew him. His was without question one of the great careers in British boxing. He had some nights which were without compare in British boxing history which took the sport to new heights and reached new audiences. He was a one-off. We can talk about the record and the number of fans that followed him around the world but this was a beloved son, father and friend to so many people who did so much good. What was great about him was that he was so unassuming, modest, quiet and there was a shy side to him as well. He wasn't someone who revelled in the spotlight. In box office terms and in terms of capturing the public's imagination, Ricky Hatton did that more than anyone else in the last half century in British boxing." FOR ADDITIONAL SKY SPORTS COVERAGE, CLICK HERE Matthew Hatton, Ricky's brother and a former professional boxer: "Huge thankyou to everyone who’s reached out over the last few days it’s very much appreciated & helped greatly. Rick lived life at a pace I’ve never seen he would cram more into a month than some lifetimes, I take comfort & hope he’s found the peace that eluded him in life." Ex-champ Marco Antonio Barrera: "Ricky was a once in a lifetime man. I am eternally grateful I got to share the ring with him [in a 2022 exhibition]. May he rest in peace, he will be missed deeply. Ricky was my closest friend in boxing. I’ll miss you, my friend. There will only be one Ricky Hatton."
	Ricky Hatton dead at age 46 SEPT. 14, 2024: A weekend that was a celebration for boxing ended in tragedy with the announcement of the death of Ricky Hatton at age 46. Hatton was a two-division champion and an iconic and beloved figure in British sport. He was a working class hero in the city of Manchester, England and his 2005 victory over Kostya Tszyu to win the world junior welterweight championship was one of the greatest nights in British boxing history. Hatton was found dead at his home in Hyde on Sunday morning. Greater Manchester Police said they are not treating the death as suspicious. A police spokesperson said: "Officers were called by a member of the public to attend Bowlacre Road, Hyde, Tameside, at 6.45am today where they found the body of a 46-year-old man. There are not currently believed to be any suspicious circumstances." Hatton held multiple world championships at super-lightweight and one at welterweight during a 15-year professional career. The British boxing great had been due to make a comeback to the ring in December. Hatton's stellar career included epic fights against Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao (both losses), a legendary triumph over Kostya Tszyu. Sky Sports' Craig Slater said British sport has lost someone who truly captured the imagination of the boxing public. "He was a remarkable human being," he said. "I had the great pleasure of knowing him as a friend. I got to know him before he turned professional and this is devastating news for all of us that knew him. His was without question one of the great careers in British boxing. He had some nights which were without compare in British boxing history which took the sport to new heights and reached new audiences. He was a one-off. We can talk about the record and the number of fans that followed him around the world but this was a beloved son, father and friend to so many people who did so much good. What was great about him was that he was so unassuming, modest, quiet and there was a shy side to him as well. He wasn't someone who revelled in the spotlight. In box office terms and in terms of capturing the public's imagination, Ricky Hatton did that more than anyone else in the last half century in British boxing." FOR ADDITIONAL SKY SPORTS COVERAGE, CLICK HERE Matthew Hatton, Ricky's brother and a former professional boxer: "Huge thankyou to everyone who’s reached out over the last few days it’s very much appreciated & helped greatly. Rick lived life at a pace I’ve never seen he would cram more into a month than some lifetimes, I take comfort & hope he’s found the peace that eluded him in life." Ex-champ Marco Antonio Barrera: "Ricky was a once in a lifetime man. I am eternally grateful I got to share the ring with him [in a 2022 exhibition]. May he rest in peace, he will be missed deeply. Ricky was my closest friend in boxing. I’ll miss you, my friend. There will only be one Ricky Hatton."

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Crawford makes history by defeating Alvarez

Source: Netflix | September 14, 2025

Crawford makes history by defeating Alvarez
Terence Crawford W12 Canelo Álvarez ... On Saturday night in Las Vegas, Terence Crawford made boxing history, becoming an undefeated five-division champion by defeating Saul "Canelo" Álvarez in a battle of future Hall of Famers. Moving up two weight divisionssincehis last fight, Crawford won by unanimous decision in front of a roaring crowd at Allegiant Stadium. The official scores were 115-113 (twice) and 116-112. Alvarez did not dispute the outcome. The performance marked not just another win, but the kind of career-defining moment that puts Crawford firmly in the conversation as one of the greatest fighters of his era. Crawford’s strategy was clear from the opening bell. “The first three rounds … I felt like I was in control. I think he was trying to figure me out,” he told reporters afterward. Throughout the fight, he used his speed, movement, and defensive instincts to frustrate Álvarez, preventing the longtime champion from landing his signature power shots.
	Crawford makes history by defeating Alvarez Terence Crawford W12 Canelo Álvarez ... On Saturday night in Las Vegas, Terence Crawford made boxing history, becoming an undefeated five-division champion by defeating Saul "Canelo" Álvarez in a battle of future Hall of Famers. Moving up two weight divisionssincehis last fight, Crawford won by unanimous decision in front of a roaring crowd at Allegiant Stadium. The official scores were 115-113 (twice) and 116-112. Alvarez did not dispute the outcome. The performance marked not just another win, but the kind of career-defining moment that puts Crawford firmly in the conversation as one of the greatest fighters of his era. Crawford’s strategy was clear from the opening bell. “The first three rounds … I felt like I was in control. I think he was trying to figure me out,” he told reporters afterward. Throughout the fight, he used his speed, movement, and defensive instincts to frustrate Álvarez, preventing the longtime champion from landing his signature power shots.

Source: Top Rank | September 14, 2025

Inoue remains world champ by defeating Akhmadaliev
Naoya Inoue W12 Murodjon Akhmadaliev... World 122-pound champion Naoya Inoue was supposed to be given the toughest test of his super bantamweight reign. In the end, it was just another dominant night at the office. Inoue defended his undisputed crown Sunday with a one-sided unanimous decision over former unified champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev at IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan. Official scores were 118-110 (twice) and 117-111. Inoue (31-0, 27 KOs), a four-division world champion, now has five defenses of the undisputed crown he won in December 2023. He continued that dominance over Akhmadaliev (17-4, 11 KOs including the World Series of Boxing), controlling the first half of the fight with his jab and straight right hands to the head and body. Inoue took charge of the center of the ring, dipping side to side and landing counter left hooks. The consistent, accurate punching left Akhmadaliev's face marked up and swollen. In the ninth round, Inoue landed a three-punch combo and beckoned his fatigued foe to come forward. Akhmadaliev had a brief moment in the final seconds of the twelfth round, landing a sweeping right hook that got Inoue's attention. Inoue shrugged off the momentary defensive lapse and coasted to victory, increasing his record in world title fights to 26-0. "I wanted to finish him in the middle rounds, but I didn’t and stuck to my game plan," Inoue said. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum said, "We saw what a complete fighter Inoue has become. Not only a great puncher, but great strategy and footwork. That’s what the real all-time greats have, and this young man demonstrated it tonight."
	Inoue remains world champ by defeating Akhmadaliev Naoya Inoue W12 Murodjon Akhmadaliev... World 122-pound champion Naoya Inoue was supposed to be given the toughest test of his super bantamweight reign. In the end, it was just another dominant night at the office. Inoue defended his undisputed crown Sunday with a one-sided unanimous decision over former unified champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev at IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan. Official scores were 118-110 (twice) and 117-111. Inoue (31-0, 27 KOs), a four-division world champion, now has five defenses of the undisputed crown he won in December 2023. He continued that dominance over Akhmadaliev (17-4, 11 KOs including the World Series of Boxing), controlling the first half of the fight with his jab and straight right hands to the head and body. Inoue took charge of the center of the ring, dipping side to side and landing counter left hooks. The consistent, accurate punching left Akhmadaliev's face marked up and swollen. In the ninth round, Inoue landed a three-punch combo and beckoned his fatigued foe to come forward. Akhmadaliev had a brief moment in the final seconds of the twelfth round, landing a sweeping right hook that got Inoue's attention. Inoue shrugged off the momentary defensive lapse and coasted to victory, increasing his record in world title fights to 26-0. "I wanted to finish him in the middle rounds, but I didn’t and stuck to my game plan," Inoue said. Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum said, "We saw what a complete fighter Inoue has become. Not only a great puncher, but great strategy and footwork. That’s what the real all-time greats have, and this young man demonstrated it tonight."

Source: Top Rank | September 14, 2025

New champion alert: Christian Medina wins WBO 118-pound title
Christian Medina TKO4 Yoshiki Takei ... In Nagoya Japan, Mexico's Christian Medina (26-4, 19 KOs) dethroned Yoshiki Takei (11-1, 9 KOs) by fourth-round TKO to win the WBO bantamweight title. Medina dropped Takei in the opening round, then finished him off with a flurry of uppercuts in the fourth to pull off the major upset. Medina has won five in a row since a 2023 loss to Ryosuke Nishida (who would go on to win and then lose the IBF bantamweight title). Ryusei Matsumoto W5 Yuni Takada... In the 105-pound division Ryusei Matsumoto (7-0, 4 KOs) tallied a fifth-round technical decision over Yuni Takada (16-9-3, 6 KOs) to win a WBA regular title by scores 50-45 (twice) and 50-46. The fight was stopped at 1:26 after an accidental headbutt dropped Takada to the canvas and left him unable to continue.
	New champion alert: Christian Medina wins WBO 118-pound title Christian Medina TKO4 Yoshiki Takei ... In Nagoya Japan, Mexico's Christian Medina (26-4, 19 KOs) dethroned Yoshiki Takei (11-1, 9 KOs) by fourth-round TKO to win the WBO bantamweight title. Medina dropped Takei in the opening round, then finished him off with a flurry of uppercuts in the fourth to pull off the major upset. Medina has won five in a row since a 2023 loss to Ryosuke Nishida (who would go on to win and then lose the IBF bantamweight title). Ryusei Matsumoto W5 Yuni Takada... In the 105-pound division Ryusei Matsumoto (7-0, 4 KOs) tallied a fifth-round technical decision over Yuni Takada (16-9-3, 6 KOs) to win a WBA regular title by scores 50-45 (twice) and 50-46. The fight was stopped at 1:26 after an accidental headbutt dropped Takada to the canvas and left him unable to continue.

By Scott Shaffer | September 14, 2025

Mbilli held to a draw by Martinez in a war
Christian Mbilli D10 Lester Martinez... In an absolute thriller of a fight between undefeated super middleweights, Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martinez (19-0-1, 16 KOs) battled to a split draw after ten action-packed rounds. Although he does not get the hype he deserves, Mbilli, a former French Olympian now fighting out of Quebec, was, and still is considered a future champion by boxing's hardcore fans. Mbilli and Martinez took turns punishing each other with both men showing incredible chins and energy over the fast-paced fight. The stalemate verdict allows Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) to retain his WBC interim super middleweight title.
	Mbilli held to a draw by Martinez in a war Christian Mbilli D10 Lester Martinez... In an absolute thriller of a fight between undefeated super middleweights, Christian Mbilli (pictured) and Lester Martinez (19-0-1, 16 KOs) battled to a split draw after ten action-packed rounds. Although he does not get the hype he deserves, Mbilli, a former French Olympian now fighting out of Quebec, was, and still is considered a future champion by boxing's hardcore fans. Mbilli and Martinez took turns punishing each other with both men showing incredible chins and energy over the fast-paced fight. The stalemate verdict allows Mbilli (29-0-1, 24 KOs) to retain his WBC interim super middleweight title.

By Scott Shaffer | September 14, 2025

Adams beats Bohachuk again
Callum Walsh W10 Fernando Vargas Jr. ... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (15-0, 11 KOs) remained unbeaten with a unanimous decision victory over Fernando Vargas Jr. (17-1, 15 KOs). After ten rounds, Walsh prevailed on the scorecards by tallies of 99-91 (twice) and 100-90. However, the fight was more competitive than those scores indicate, as several rounds were close. Vargas Jr. is the older son of former world junior middleweight champion Fernando Vargas. Fernando Jr. got a late start in the sport but performed admirably against Walsh. His brother Emiliano is an undefeated up-and-coming boxer. Brandon Adams W10 Serhii Bohachuk... In a stellar performance at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, California's Brandon Adams (26-4, 16 KOs) showed his 2021 win over Serhii Bohachuk (26-3, 24 KOs) was no fluke. In 2021, Adams was trailing on the scorecards when he knocked out the Ukrainian Bohachuk in the eighth round. Adams was unable to capitalize on what should have been a life-changing win because he was saddled with a difficult promoter. Bohachuk has gone on to the cusp of world-title contention... until tonight. In this, their second encounter, Adams fought at a fast pace with an intelligent game plan and a potent body attack to win the ten-round middleweight bout by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 (twice). Hopefully, Adams can reap the benefits he richly deserves from his efforts in boxing.
	Adams beats Bohachuk again Callum Walsh W10 Fernando Vargas Jr. ... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (15-0, 11 KOs) remained unbeaten with a unanimous decision victory over Fernando Vargas Jr. (17-1, 15 KOs). After ten rounds, Walsh prevailed on the scorecards by tallies of 99-91 (twice) and 100-90. However, the fight was more competitive than those scores indicate, as several rounds were close. Vargas Jr. is the older son of former world junior middleweight champion Fernando Vargas. Fernando Jr. got a late start in the sport but performed admirably against Walsh. His brother Emiliano is an undefeated up-and-coming boxer. Brandon Adams W10 Serhii Bohachuk... In a stellar performance at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, California's Brandon Adams (26-4, 16 KOs) showed his 2021 win over Serhii Bohachuk (26-3, 24 KOs) was no fluke. In 2021, Adams was trailing on the scorecards when he knocked out the Ukrainian Bohachuk in the eighth round. Adams was unable to capitalize on what should have been a life-changing win because he was saddled with a difficult promoter. Bohachuk has gone on to the cusp of world-title contention... until tonight. In this, their second encounter, Adams fought at a fast pace with an intelligent game plan and a potent body attack to win the ten-round middleweight bout by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 (twice). Hopefully, Adams can reap the benefits he richly deserves from his efforts in boxing.

By Scott Shaffer | September 14, 2025

Franklin gets controversial win over Dychko
Jermaine Franklin W10 Ivan Dychko... In a heavyweight fight where neither man was conditioned to fight ten hard rounds, Michigan's Jermaine Franklin defeated ex-Olympic medal winner Ivan Dychko by unanimous decision at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium. Dychko did well early, but tired over the second half of the fight. Dychko was penalized a point for excessive holding when he was hurt by Franklin, but overall the judges thought Franklin did enough to win anyway, credting him with a win by scores of 96-93, 95-94 and 97-92. The Netflix announcers, including the highly respected ex-cham Andre Ward and Max Kellerman thought Dychko deserved the win, and even Franklin's corner told Franklin he needed a knockout to win going into the final round. Dychko had an excellent amateur career, winning Olympic bronze twice, including a razor-thin loss to future gold medalist and pro champion Anthony Joshua in 2012.
	Franklin gets controversial win over Dychko Jermaine Franklin W10 Ivan Dychko... In a heavyweight fight where neither man was conditioned to fight ten hard rounds, Michigan's Jermaine Franklin defeated ex-Olympic medal winner Ivan Dychko by unanimous decision at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium. Dychko did well early, but tired over the second half of the fight. Dychko was penalized a point for excessive holding when he was hurt by Franklin, but overall the judges thought Franklin did enough to win anyway, credting him with a win by scores of 96-93, 95-94 and 97-92. The Netflix announcers, including the highly respected ex-cham Andre Ward and Max Kellerman thought Dychko deserved the win, and even Franklin's corner told Franklin he needed a knockout to win going into the final round. Dychko had an excellent amateur career, winning Olympic bronze twice, including a razor-thin loss to future gold medalist and pro champion Anthony Joshua in 2012.

By Scott Shaffer | September 14, 2025

The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: preliminary results from Vegas
In a bit of a surprise, Cuban born Raiko Santana (13-4, 7 KOs) stopped Steven Nelson in the first round of a light heavyweight bout. Nelson is from Nebraska and a gym-mate of Terence Crawford, but he falls to 20-2 with 16 KOs... Saudia Arabia's Mohammed Alakel (5-0), a protege of Turki Alalshikh, made a successful U.S. debut, winning his first ten rounder. Alakel defeated Travis Crawford of Texas via unanimous decision in the lightweight category. The scores were 99-91 (twice) and 98-92. Crawford (7-5) may be through with boxing, as he reports for military duty in a couple of weeks. Boxingtalk salutes him and thanks him for his future service... Mexico's Marco Verde (3-0, 3 KOs) got the better of Minnesota's Sona Akale (9-4), stopping him in round six. It was a premature stoppage and Akale had every right to complain bitterly about it, which he did. Verde won a silver medal at the 2024 Olympics. This was a 162-pound catchweight bout... Japanese junior lightweight hopeful Reito Tsutsumi stopped Javier Martinez in the first round. Tsutsumi is now 3-0 with 2 KOs, while Martinez fighting out of Dallas, drops to 7-3... Both men's "O" had to go as Saudi Arabian junior welterweight Sultan Almohamed (1-0) defeated Martin Caraballo (0-0-1, fighting out of Hollywood, Florida) by unanimous decision. All three judges scored the four rounder 40-36 in favor of the visitor.
	The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: preliminary results from Vegas In a bit of a surprise, Cuban born Raiko Santana (13-4, 7 KOs) stopped Steven Nelson in the first round of a light heavyweight bout. Nelson is from Nebraska and a gym-mate of Terence Crawford, but he falls to 20-2 with 16 KOs... Saudia Arabia's Mohammed Alakel (5-0), a protege of Turki Alalshikh, made a successful U.S. debut, winning his first ten rounder. Alakel defeated Travis Crawford of Texas via unanimous decision in the lightweight category. The scores were 99-91 (twice) and 98-92. Crawford (7-5) may be through with boxing, as he reports for military duty in a couple of weeks. Boxingtalk salutes him and thanks him for his future service... Mexico's Marco Verde (3-0, 3 KOs) got the better of Minnesota's Sona Akale (9-4), stopping him in round six. It was a premature stoppage and Akale had every right to complain bitterly about it, which he did. Verde won a silver medal at the 2024 Olympics. This was a 162-pound catchweight bout... Japanese junior lightweight hopeful Reito Tsutsumi stopped Javier Martinez in the first round. Tsutsumi is now 3-0 with 2 KOs, while Martinez fighting out of Dallas, drops to 7-3... Both men's "O" had to go as Saudi Arabian junior welterweight Sultan Almohamed (1-0) defeated Martin Caraballo (0-0-1, fighting out of Hollywood, Florida) by unanimous decision. All three judges scored the four rounder 40-36 in favor of the visitor.

Source: USA Boxing | September 14, 2025

Yoseline Perez reaches finals at the 2025 World Boxing Championships
Yoseline Perez continued her run at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, earning a unanimous decision over Italy’s Sirine Charaabi on Saturday. With this win, Perez advances to the bantamweight final against Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang on Sunday, the last day of competition. Perez outmaneuvered her Italian rival for a 5-0 victory. She landed jabs and straight rights as Charaabi routinely charged forward, and used her elite footwork to evade every attack, frustrating her opponent. “It makes me feel really good,” Perez stated about her semifinal victory. “I’m glad that I’ve gotten this far, and I’ve seen the improvement throughout the years. It’s a really great feeling being able to do this. I think that I still haven’t processed it enough. I’m pretty sure after, I’ll know how to describe what it means. Right now, I’m just focused on tomorrow and being able to close this out, God willing, with a gold medal.” Perez closed the opening round with a 4-1 advantage before capturing another 4-1 scorecard in the second round. Up 3-0 heading into the final three minutes of action, the United States’ 54-kilogram representative appeared confident and closed out the match with another 4-1 score card to secure the unanimous decision. “This year was a really great year for me. Today, I was reading Proverbs, and one of the verses that stuck out to me was ‘I’m the horse that’s prepared for the battle, and the victory belongs to the Lord.’ So, I was just thinking to myself that I’m that horse that prepares every day, and as soon as I get in there [the ring], I do what I need to do. Then, the outcome and the victory belong to Him.” Following Perez’s semifinal victory, Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang also earned a unanimous decision in the second semifinal of the day in that weight class. Huang has competed in each round of the World Boxing Championships, earning unanimous decisions in all four of her bouts. A two-time Olympian in Tokyo and Paris, Huang’s extensive resumé consists of a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games in the flyweight division, two world championships in 2019 and 2023, a bronze medal at the Asian Games, and two bronze medals and a silver medal at the Asian Championships. Perez will square off against Huang in bout three on Sunday, beginning at approximately 7:30 a.m. ET inside M&S Bank Arena. The bout will be broadcast live and free by Eurovision Sport on worldboxing.org.
	Yoseline Perez reaches finals at the 2025 World Boxing Championships Yoseline Perez continued her run at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, earning a unanimous decision over Italy’s Sirine Charaabi on Saturday. With this win, Perez advances to the bantamweight final against Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang on Sunday, the last day of competition. Perez outmaneuvered her Italian rival for a 5-0 victory. She landed jabs and straight rights as Charaabi routinely charged forward, and used her elite footwork to evade every attack, frustrating her opponent. “It makes me feel really good,” Perez stated about her semifinal victory. “I’m glad that I’ve gotten this far, and I’ve seen the improvement throughout the years. It’s a really great feeling being able to do this. I think that I still haven’t processed it enough. I’m pretty sure after, I’ll know how to describe what it means. Right now, I’m just focused on tomorrow and being able to close this out, God willing, with a gold medal.” Perez closed the opening round with a 4-1 advantage before capturing another 4-1 scorecard in the second round. Up 3-0 heading into the final three minutes of action, the United States’ 54-kilogram representative appeared confident and closed out the match with another 4-1 score card to secure the unanimous decision. “This year was a really great year for me. Today, I was reading Proverbs, and one of the verses that stuck out to me was ‘I’m the horse that’s prepared for the battle, and the victory belongs to the Lord.’ So, I was just thinking to myself that I’m that horse that prepares every day, and as soon as I get in there [the ring], I do what I need to do. Then, the outcome and the victory belong to Him.” Following Perez’s semifinal victory, Chinese Taipei’s Hsiao-Wen Huang also earned a unanimous decision in the second semifinal of the day in that weight class. Huang has competed in each round of the World Boxing Championships, earning unanimous decisions in all four of her bouts. A two-time Olympian in Tokyo and Paris, Huang’s extensive resumé consists of a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games in the flyweight division, two world championships in 2019 and 2023, a bronze medal at the Asian Games, and two bronze medals and a silver medal at the Asian Championships. Perez will square off against Huang in bout three on Sunday, beginning at approximately 7:30 a.m. ET inside M&S Bank Arena. The bout will be broadcast live and free by Eurovision Sport on worldboxing.org.

Source: Top Rank | September 13, 2025

Weigh-In Results from Japan
Here are the weigh-in results for the big show in Nagoya, Japan featuring world 122-poud champion Naoya Inoue vs. former two-belt champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev. The action can be viewed at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT live on Top Rank's Facebook Channel in the U.S., UK & The Philippines. Undisputed world super bantamweight championship — 12 rounds Naoya Inoue 121.7 pounds vs. Murodjon Akhmadaliev 121.3; WBO bantamweight title — 12 rounds Yoshiki Takei 118 vs. Christian Medina 117 ¾; and WBA regular minimumweight title — 12 rounds Yuni Takada 104 ¾ vs. Ryusei Matsumoto 104 ¾.
	Weigh-In Results from Japan Here are the weigh-in results for the big show in Nagoya, Japan featuring world 122-poud champion Naoya Inoue vs. former two-belt champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev. The action can be viewed at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT live on Top Rank's Facebook Channel in the U.S., UK & The Philippines. Undisputed world super bantamweight championship — 12 rounds Naoya Inoue 121.7 pounds vs. Murodjon Akhmadaliev 121.3; WBO bantamweight title — 12 rounds Yoshiki Takei 118 vs. Christian Medina 117 ¾; and WBA regular minimumweight title — 12 rounds Yuni Takada 104 ¾ vs. Ryusei Matsumoto 104 ¾.

Source: Netflix | September 13, 2025

Fight day is finally here!
When two pound-for-pound kings step into the ring, history doesn’t wait — it swings. On one side: the undisputed face of Mexican boxing. On the other: an undefeated American technician with something to prove. Tonight, Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford meet in a once-in-a-generation showdown, streaming live only on Netflix across the globe — no pay-per-view required. A star-studded collection of veteran voices in combat sports will come together to call the fight this evening Jon Anik leads play-by-play with analysts Max Kellerman and Andre Ward, while legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer handles the main card and Joe Martinez covers the prelims streaming on Tudum — keep scrolling to learn more about the full card. At the desk, Mario Lopez is joined by Antonio Tarver, Mark Kriegel, and Mike Coppinger. Rounding out coverage are reporters Jim Gray and Heidi Androl, and coaching analyst Skipper Kelp. MAIN CARD / CANELO vs. CRAWFORD Canelo vs. Crawford Main Card: Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs, fighting out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico) defends his unified super middleweight championship against undefeated four-division superstar Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs, fighting out of Omaha, Nebraska). Final Weights: Canelo, 167.5 pounds \| Crawford, 167.5 pounds Callum Walsh (14-0, 11 KOs, fighting out of Cork, Ireland) faces Fernando Vargas Jr. (17-0, 15 KOs, fighting out of Las Vegas) who has gone the distance just once in 17 fights in a junior middleweight contest. Final Weights: Walsh, 153.5 pounds \| Vargas Jr., 154 pounds WBC Interim super middleweight title holder Christian Mbilli (29-0, 24 KOs, fighting out of Quebec by the way of France) squares off with Lester Martinez (19-0, 16 KOs, fighting out of San Benito Peten, Guatemala) in a super middleweight bout. Final Weights: Mbilli, 167 pounds \| Martinez, 167 pounds Mohammed Alakel (4-0, 0 KOs, fighting out of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) takes on Travis Kent Crawford in a lightweight bout at 134 pounds. Final Weights: Alakel, 132 pounds \| Crawford, 132.5 pounds
	Fight day is finally here! When two pound-for-pound kings step into the ring, history doesn’t wait — it swings. On one side: the undisputed face of Mexican boxing. On the other: an undefeated American technician with something to prove. Tonight, Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford meet in a once-in-a-generation showdown, streaming live only on Netflix across the globe — no pay-per-view required. A star-studded collection of veteran voices in combat sports will come together to call the fight this evening Jon Anik leads play-by-play with analysts Max Kellerman and Andre Ward, while legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer handles the main card and Joe Martinez covers the prelims streaming on Tudum — keep scrolling to learn more about the full card. At the desk, Mario Lopez is joined by Antonio Tarver, Mark Kriegel, and Mike Coppinger. Rounding out coverage are reporters Jim Gray and Heidi Androl, and coaching analyst Skipper Kelp. MAIN CARD / CANELO vs. CRAWFORD Canelo vs. Crawford Main Card: Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs, fighting out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico) defends his unified super middleweight championship against undefeated four-division superstar Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs, fighting out of Omaha, Nebraska). Final Weights: Canelo, 167.5 pounds \| Crawford, 167.5 pounds Callum Walsh (14-0, 11 KOs, fighting out of Cork, Ireland) faces Fernando Vargas Jr. (17-0, 15 KOs, fighting out of Las Vegas) who has gone the distance just once in 17 fights in a junior middleweight contest. Final Weights: Walsh, 153.5 pounds \| Vargas Jr., 154 pounds WBC Interim super middleweight title holder Christian Mbilli (29-0, 24 KOs, fighting out of Quebec by the way of France) squares off with Lester Martinez (19-0, 16 KOs, fighting out of San Benito Peten, Guatemala) in a super middleweight bout. Final Weights: Mbilli, 167 pounds \| Martinez, 167 pounds Mohammed Alakel (4-0, 0 KOs, fighting out of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) takes on Travis Kent Crawford in a lightweight bout at 134 pounds. Final Weights: Alakel, 132 pounds \| Crawford, 132.5 pounds

Press Release | September 13, 2025

Alvarez and Crawford are the same weight
This wasn’t just another weigh-in — it’s the moment that sets the stage for one of boxing’s biggest events in decades. Saul "Canelo" Álvarez is a four-division world champion and the first fighter in history to unify all four major titles at super middleweight. At 35, he remains one of the sport’s most dominant stars, with signature wins over Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Gennady Golovkin, and more. He reclaimed his undisputed status at 168 pounds in May 2025, and has never been knocked down in his professional career. Terence “Bud” Crawford is widely considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. At 37, Crawford is undefeated in 41 professional fights, with 19 world title victories and 15 stoppages in championship bouts. He is the first male boxer ever to become undisputed champion in two weight classes during the four-belt era (super lightweight and welterweight) — and now he’s moving up two full weight classes from 154 pounds to challenge Canelo. Like Canelo, Crawford has never been knocked down in his career. For the undisputed world super middleweight title fight in Las Vegas, both Canelo and Crawford weighed in at exactly 167.5 pounds, shutting down skepticism that Crawford could fight at the same size as Canelo. For Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs), 167.5 pounds marks the heaviest weight of his career. The Omaha, Nebraska native is jumping from junior middleweight to the 168-pound limit in pursuit of history: Until last year he’d never fought above 147 pounds, and at his most recent fight in August he weighed 153.4 pounds. A victory against Canelo would make him the first male boxer ever to become an undisputed champion in three different divisions. Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) has long been a fixture at super middleweight, fighting at 168 pounds in 10 of his last 11 bouts. His career high came in May 2022, when he weighed 174.4 pounds for his failed challenge of light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol.
	Alvarez and Crawford are the same weight This wasn’t just another weigh-in — it’s the moment that sets the stage for one of boxing’s biggest events in decades. Saul "Canelo" Álvarez is a four-division world champion and the first fighter in history to unify all four major titles at super middleweight. At 35, he remains one of the sport’s most dominant stars, with signature wins over Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Gennady Golovkin, and more. He reclaimed his undisputed status at 168 pounds in May 2025, and has never been knocked down in his professional career. Terence “Bud” Crawford is widely considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. At 37, Crawford is undefeated in 41 professional fights, with 19 world title victories and 15 stoppages in championship bouts. He is the first male boxer ever to become undisputed champion in two weight classes during the four-belt era (super lightweight and welterweight) — and now he’s moving up two full weight classes from 154 pounds to challenge Canelo. Like Canelo, Crawford has never been knocked down in his career. For the undisputed world super middleweight title fight in Las Vegas, both Canelo and Crawford weighed in at exactly 167.5 pounds, shutting down skepticism that Crawford could fight at the same size as Canelo. For Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs), 167.5 pounds marks the heaviest weight of his career. The Omaha, Nebraska native is jumping from junior middleweight to the 168-pound limit in pursuit of history: Until last year he’d never fought above 147 pounds, and at his most recent fight in August he weighed 153.4 pounds. A victory against Canelo would make him the first male boxer ever to become an undisputed champion in three different divisions. Álvarez (63-2-2, 39 KOs) has long been a fixture at super middleweight, fighting at 168 pounds in 10 of his last 11 bouts. His career high came in May 2022, when he weighed 174.4 pounds for his failed challenge of light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol.

By Scott Shaffer | September 12, 2025

Watch: Olascuaga retains title yet again
Anthony Olascuaga TKO2 Juan Carlos Camacho... Anthony Olascuaga retained his WBO flyweight title with a second-round stoppage over Juan Carlos Camacho in Las Vegas. Olascuaga punished Martinez against the ropes until the referee intervened. The fight was the headline attraction in The Ring’s new series, The Underdog. Olascuaga (10-1, 6 KOs) has been a busy champion. He won his title in July of last year and this was already the third defense for the Los Angeles native. Camacho returns to Puerto Rico with a record of 19-2.
	Watch: Olascuaga retains title yet again Anthony Olascuaga TKO2 Juan Carlos Camacho... Anthony Olascuaga retained his WBO flyweight title with a second-round stoppage over Juan Carlos Camacho in Las Vegas. Olascuaga punished Martinez against the ropes until the referee intervened. The fight was the headline attraction in The Ring’s new series, The Underdog. Olascuaga (10-1, 6 KOs) has been a busy champion. He won his title in July of last year and this was already the third defense for the Los Angeles native. Camacho returns to Puerto Rico with a record of 19-2.

Source: Top Rank | September 12, 2025

Top Rank to free-stream Inoue vs. Akhmadaliev on its Facebook page
The highly anticipated undisputed world super bantamweight championship showdown between reigning king Naoya Inoue and former two-belt champion Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev, taking place Sunday morning (US time), Sept. 14th at IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. and UK on the Top Rank Facebook channel. The three-fight streaming broadcast begins at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT/9 a.m. BST, with Inoue and Akhmadaliev expected to make their ring walks at approximately 6:40 a.m. ET/3:40 a.m. PT/11:40 a.m. BST. Inoue (30-0, 27 KOs) will make the fifth defense of the undisputed title since December 2023, when he knocked out fellow unified champion Marlon Tapales to unify all the belts. This marks the 26th consecutive world title appearance for Inoue, who returns to Japan following May’s stirring eighth-round TKO of Ramon Cardenas at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Akhmadaliev (17-3 including the World Series of Boxing), the WBA interim belt holder, has won three consecutive bouts by stoppage since a split decision defeat to Tapales. In other streaming action, WBO bantamweight world champion Yoshiki Takei (11-0, 9 KOs) aims to defend his title for a third time when he battles Mexico’s Christian “Chispa” Medina (25-4, 18 KOs) and the vacant WBA regular minimumweight belt will be on the line when Yuni Takada (16-8-3, 6 KOs) fights southpaw standout Ryusei Matsumoto (6-0, 4 KOs).
	Top Rank to free-stream Inoue vs. Akhmadaliev on its Facebook page The highly anticipated undisputed world super bantamweight championship showdown between reigning king Naoya Inoue and former two-belt champion Murodjon “MJ” Akhmadaliev, taking place Sunday morning (US time), Sept. 14th at IG Arena in Nagoya, Japan will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. and UK on the Top Rank Facebook channel. The three-fight streaming broadcast begins at 4 a.m. ET/1 a.m. PT/9 a.m. BST, with Inoue and Akhmadaliev expected to make their ring walks at approximately 6:40 a.m. ET/3:40 a.m. PT/11:40 a.m. BST. Inoue (30-0, 27 KOs) will make the fifth defense of the undisputed title since December 2023, when he knocked out fellow unified champion Marlon Tapales to unify all the belts. This marks the 26th consecutive world title appearance for Inoue, who returns to Japan following May’s stirring eighth-round TKO of Ramon Cardenas at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Akhmadaliev (17-3 including the World Series of Boxing), the WBA interim belt holder, has won three consecutive bouts by stoppage since a split decision defeat to Tapales. In other streaming action, WBO bantamweight world champion Yoshiki Takei (11-0, 9 KOs) aims to defend his title for a third time when he battles Mexico’s Christian “Chispa” Medina (25-4, 18 KOs) and the vacant WBA regular minimumweight belt will be on the line when Yuni Takada (16-8-3, 6 KOs) fights southpaw standout Ryusei Matsumoto (6-0, 4 KOs).

Source: Queensberry Promotions | September 12, 2025

Parker: "I love the fire"
The opening press conference took place to promote next month's the heavyweight showdown between WBO interim champion Joseph Parker and his WBA counterpart, Fabio Wardley. The fight is set to happen at the 02 London on Saturday October 25th. A shot at world champion Oleksandr Usyk is the prize for the winner, with both fighters holding Interim versions of world titles, Below is a selection of key quotes from this media event. Promoter Frank Warren “Why is this fight so significant? Because you’ve got two guys who don’t need to fight each other. Both are Interim champions. Usyk is out for 90 days and the WBO have said that at the end of those 90 days he has to defend that belt or he will be stripped or vacate it. “So this fight is made because the winner of it will be the man who will be the next challenger to Usyk. It is as simple as that. If he doesn’t fight them, the winner could be declared champion. “You’ve got to take your hat off to both of them. They are not waiting their turn. The WBO is next and Joe wants to fight and not wait until next year. With Fabio, he sees this as a shortcut or you could be waiting for two years until you get your chance, if the champion fights two times a year. “Fabio is seizing his chance and, as he says, it could be a defining moment for him. He has the desire, he is a KO specialist and he is putting it all on the line, as is Joe Parker. “For the winner it will be all and for the loser it will be nothing because he will go back down the queue. “That is what this fight is all about, two fighting men putting it all on the line, to go out there and fight for the right to fight for the four belts.” Joseph Parker “Walking towards the fire? I love the fire. I’ve fought a lot of fighters out there who are big punchers and they haven’t been able to get me out of there, so credit to Fabio Wardley for taking this fight. “We could have sat and waited for Usyk, when he is ready or not injured, but we as fighters are showing that we will fight anyone at any time. I think this is going to be a great fight. I know Wardley is determined and says he has ticked all the boxes and got the rounds in that he needs to have a big fight like this. But fighting someone like myself is very different from fighting everyone else he has fought. “I bring a lot of experience, belief and determination and I will win come 25th October. “There are levels. They do say there are levels in boxing and I believe with the experience that I have and what I have been working on in New Zealand, I have got a good base and I am excited to see what I can do in the ring.” Fabio Wardley “This will be a huge moment in my career, a defining moment, probably. I am committed to that saying of ‘big fights only’ because I have not come here to play around. I have not made it this far in my career to just hang about and wait for things to be handed to me. “I am very much a go-getter. I have made my way through the WBA rankings and have got myself into a fantastic position there but, if that doesn’t go how we planned, I am not going to sit in the wings and wait, I am going to be in Frank’s ear and say ‘what is the next best opportunity here, what is the next best thing?’ “With Oleksandr Usyk tied up at the moment, there isn’t a better competitor in the division right now than the No.2 man Joseph Parker. “I think at this stage of my career I have ticked off the right amount of milestones. The right amount of ups, downs, roller coaster moments that I have enough experience now to take me through into a top-level fight. I have been saying for a while now that I think I deserve to be mentioned alongside those names. “People maybe still have reservations and question marks, so October 25th is where I get to wipe that all clean by beating Joseph Parker and announcing really and truly that I am shoulder to shoulder with those kind of guys.”
	Parker: "I love the fire" The opening press conference took place to promote next month's the heavyweight showdown between WBO interim champion Joseph Parker and his WBA counterpart, Fabio Wardley. The fight is set to happen at the 02 London on Saturday October 25th. A shot at world champion Oleksandr Usyk is the prize for the winner, with both fighters holding Interim versions of world titles, Below is a selection of key quotes from this media event. Promoter Frank Warren “Why is this fight so significant? Because you’ve got two guys who don’t need to fight each other. Both are Interim champions. Usyk is out for 90 days and the WBO have said that at the end of those 90 days he has to defend that belt or he will be stripped or vacate it. “So this fight is made because the winner of it will be the man who will be the next challenger to Usyk. It is as simple as that. If he doesn’t fight them, the winner could be declared champion. “You’ve got to take your hat off to both of them. They are not waiting their turn. The WBO is next and Joe wants to fight and not wait until next year. With Fabio, he sees this as a shortcut or you could be waiting for two years until you get your chance, if the champion fights two times a year. “Fabio is seizing his chance and, as he says, it could be a defining moment for him. He has the desire, he is a KO specialist and he is putting it all on the line, as is Joe Parker. “For the winner it will be all and for the loser it will be nothing because he will go back down the queue. “That is what this fight is all about, two fighting men putting it all on the line, to go out there and fight for the right to fight for the four belts.” Joseph Parker “Walking towards the fire? I love the fire. I’ve fought a lot of fighters out there who are big punchers and they haven’t been able to get me out of there, so credit to Fabio Wardley for taking this fight. “We could have sat and waited for Usyk, when he is ready or not injured, but we as fighters are showing that we will fight anyone at any time. I think this is going to be a great fight. I know Wardley is determined and says he has ticked all the boxes and got the rounds in that he needs to have a big fight like this. But fighting someone like myself is very different from fighting everyone else he has fought. “I bring a lot of experience, belief and determination and I will win come 25th October. “There are levels. They do say there are levels in boxing and I believe with the experience that I have and what I have been working on in New Zealand, I have got a good base and I am excited to see what I can do in the ring.” Fabio Wardley “This will be a huge moment in my career, a defining moment, probably. I am committed to that saying of ‘big fights only’ because I have not come here to play around. I have not made it this far in my career to just hang about and wait for things to be handed to me. “I am very much a go-getter. I have made my way through the WBA rankings and have got myself into a fantastic position there but, if that doesn’t go how we planned, I am not going to sit in the wings and wait, I am going to be in Frank’s ear and say ‘what is the next best opportunity here, what is the next best thing?’ “With Oleksandr Usyk tied up at the moment, there isn’t a better competitor in the division right now than the No.2 man Joseph Parker. “I think at this stage of my career I have ticked off the right amount of milestones. The right amount of ups, downs, roller coaster moments that I have enough experience now to take me through into a top-level fight. I have been saying for a while now that I think I deserve to be mentioned alongside those names. “People maybe still have reservations and question marks, so October 25th is where I get to wipe that all clean by beating Joseph Parker and announcing really and truly that I am shoulder to shoulder with those kind of guys.”

Source: WBA | September 12, 2025

Agyarko has big hometown opportunity in Belfast
On September 13th, the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast, Northern Ireland will host a pivotal showdown on the European circuit, as undefeated Irishman Caoimhin “Black Thunder” Agyarko (17-0, 7 KOs) takes on Britain’s Ishmael “The Black Panther” Davis (13-2, 6 KOs) in a junior middleweight contest. For Agyarko, age 28, this is a big opportunity to show off his explosive style and sharp movement. He’s already turned back the likes of Troy Williamson and Grant Dennis. Now, he’s eager to cement himself as a legitimate world contender. “Fighting for a belt in Belfast is a dream come true,” Agyarko said in the build-up. “I’m ready to show I belong at the top level.” Davis, age 30, from Leeds, comes in with redemption on his mind after back-to-back defeats, the most recent a stoppage loss to Serhii Bohachuk last December. A pressure fighter who thrives on breaking opponents down, Davis believes he can flip the script as the underdog. “I didn’t come here just to make up the numbers—I came here to win. Agyarko’s never been in with someone like me,” he declared. Both men weighed in around 153.5 pounds in their most recent outings and share a similar stance, though their approaches differ. Agyarko prefers controlling range and counterpunching, while Davis thrives in the trenches, pushing a high pace and exchanging on the inside.
	Agyarko has big hometown opportunity in Belfast On September 13th, the Clearer Twist National Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast, Northern Ireland will host a pivotal showdown on the European circuit, as undefeated Irishman Caoimhin “Black Thunder” Agyarko (17-0, 7 KOs) takes on Britain’s Ishmael “The Black Panther” Davis (13-2, 6 KOs) in a junior middleweight contest. For Agyarko, age 28, this is a big opportunity to show off his explosive style and sharp movement. He’s already turned back the likes of Troy Williamson and Grant Dennis. Now, he’s eager to cement himself as a legitimate world contender. “Fighting for a belt in Belfast is a dream come true,” Agyarko said in the build-up. “I’m ready to show I belong at the top level.” Davis, age 30, from Leeds, comes in with redemption on his mind after back-to-back defeats, the most recent a stoppage loss to Serhii Bohachuk last December. A pressure fighter who thrives on breaking opponents down, Davis believes he can flip the script as the underdog. “I didn’t come here just to make up the numbers—I came here to win. Agyarko’s never been in with someone like me,” he declared. Both men weighed in around 153.5 pounds in their most recent outings and share a similar stance, though their approaches differ. Agyarko prefers controlling range and counterpunching, while Davis thrives in the trenches, pushing a high pace and exchanging on the inside.

Source: WBC | September 12, 2025

Ishii wins minimumweight bout
Takeshi Ishii W10 Jake Amparo ... Takeshi Ishii successfully defended his OPBF 105-pound title at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, defeating Jake Amparo of the Philippines by unanimous decision. The official scorecards read 98-91 (twice) and 99-90. From the opening bell, Ishii (11-1) set the pace, puncturing with hard left hooks to the body, although Amparo (16-8-1) responded with a right cross and left hook. In the third round, the Filipino showed initiative with his jab and a solid right to the body. After four rounds, the scorecards read 38-38 and 39-37 (twice) in favor of Ishii. From the sixth round onward, Ishii resumed targeting the body with his left hand, and in the seventh and eighth rounds, he maintained a constant offensive with one-two combinations and left hooks. At the end of the eighth round, the scorecards showed 78-74 twice and 79-73 once for Ishii. In the tenth and final round, the Japanese fighter dropped Amparo with a crunching left hook to the body and pressured him in an attempt to finish the fight. However, the challenger made it to the final bell. So, Ishii retained his title with a wide margin on the scorecards.
	Ishii wins minimumweight bout Takeshi Ishii W10 Jake Amparo ... Takeshi Ishii successfully defended his OPBF 105-pound title at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, defeating Jake Amparo of the Philippines by unanimous decision. The official scorecards read 98-91 (twice) and 99-90. From the opening bell, Ishii (11-1) set the pace, puncturing with hard left hooks to the body, although Amparo (16-8-1) responded with a right cross and left hook. In the third round, the Filipino showed initiative with his jab and a solid right to the body. After four rounds, the scorecards read 38-38 and 39-37 (twice) in favor of Ishii. From the sixth round onward, Ishii resumed targeting the body with his left hand, and in the seventh and eighth rounds, he maintained a constant offensive with one-two combinations and left hooks. At the end of the eighth round, the scorecards showed 78-74 twice and 79-73 once for Ishii. In the tenth and final round, the Japanese fighter dropped Amparo with a crunching left hook to the body and pressured him in an attempt to finish the fight. However, the challenger made it to the final bell. So, Ishii retained his title with a wide margin on the scorecards.

Beloved writer Tom Gerbasi passes away suddenly

Beloved writer Tom Gerbasi passes away suddenly

Eubank Jr. puts British commissioner on blast!

Eubank Jr. puts British commissioner on blast!

WBC orders Mbilli to give Martinez a rematch

WBC orders Mbilli to give Martinez a rematch

Fundora: "I grew up watching Thurman. He’s a great fighter"

Fundora: "I grew up watching Thurman. He’s a great fighter"

Cameron gets chance to reclaim WBC 140-pound title

Cameron gets chance to reclaim WBC 140-pound title

Connecticut Hall of Fame announces class of 2025

Connecticut Hall of Fame announces class of 2025

Introducing Washington D.C. lightweight Scooter Davis

Introducing Washington D.C. lightweight Scooter Davis

A few words with Kaipo Gallegos

A few words with Kaipo Gallegos

WBC vacates Katie Taylor's title

WBC vacates Katie Taylor's title

Report: Ajagba withdraws from IBF elimination process

Report: Ajagba withdraws from IBF elimination process

Danny Garcia comeback to be shown on pay-per-view

Danny Garcia comeback to be shown on pay-per-view

Turkish boxing update

Turkish boxing update

Netflix takes a victory lap for Canelo-Crawford ratings

Netflix takes a victory lap for Canelo-Crawford ratings

Franklin and Salita announce an amicable split

Franklin and Salita announce an amicable split

Kevin Brown to headline in Orlando

Kevin Brown to headline in Orlando

Alalshikh says he owes Alvarez two more fights

Alalshikh says he owes Alvarez two more fights

Fights return to NYC's Times Square on Friday

Fights return to NYC's Times Square on Friday

Tiara Brown to defend her title this week

Tiara Brown to defend her title this week

Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador

Kingsley Ibeh to face Gerald Washington in El Salvador

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan dominate World Boxing Championships

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan dominate World Boxing Championships

Canelo Alvarez classy in defeat

Canelo Alvarez classy in defeat

Perez brings home silver, only U.S medal

Perez brings home silver, only U.S medal

Introducing Umi Ishikawa, interim title holder

Introducing Umi Ishikawa, interim title holder

Ricky Hatton dead at age 46

Ricky Hatton dead at age 46

Crawford makes history by defeating Alvarez

Crawford makes history by defeating Alvarez

Inoue remains world champ by defeating Akhmadaliev

Inoue remains world champ by defeating Akhmadaliev

New champion alert: Christian Medina wins WBO 118-pound title

New champion alert: Christian Medina wins WBO 118-pound title

Mbilli held to a draw by Martinez in a war

Mbilli held to a draw by Martinez in a war

Adams beats Bohachuk again

Adams beats Bohachuk again

Franklin gets controversial win over Dychko

Franklin gets controversial win over Dychko

The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: preliminary results from Vegas

The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: preliminary results from Vegas

Yoseline Perez reaches finals at the 2025 World Boxing Championships

Yoseline Perez reaches finals at the 2025 World Boxing Championships

Weigh-In Results from Japan

Weigh-In Results from Japan

Fight day is finally here!

Fight day is finally here!

Alvarez and Crawford are the same weight

Alvarez and Crawford are the same weight

Watch: Olascuaga retains title yet again

Watch: Olascuaga retains title yet again

Top Rank to free-stream Inoue vs. Akhmadaliev on its Facebook page

Top Rank to free-stream Inoue vs. Akhmadaliev on its Facebook page

Parker: "I love the fire"

Parker: "I love the fire"

Agyarko has big hometown opportunity in Belfast

Agyarko has big hometown opportunity in Belfast

Ishii wins minimumweight bout

Ishii wins minimumweight bout