July Boxing Highlights
As July wrapped up, boxing fans were treated to some extraordinary moments, with a clear delineation between those who thrived in the ring and those who stumbled. This month, we focus on the standout performances and notable missteps within the sport.
Top Performers
Oleksandr Usyk
July was a pivotal month for Oleksandr Usyk, who not only emerged victorious but solidified his status as a boxing legend. The Ukrainian heavyweight delivered a decisive fifth-round knockout against Daniel Dubois, further reinforcing his position atop the pound-for-pound rankings and showcasing his dominance after a prior controversial bout in 2022. Usyk’s skills have placed him in a league of his own, far exceeding the capabilities of many contemporaries. In the coming months, anticipation looms as numerous heavyweights will likely vie for bouts against him, aiming to enhance their careers with a title shot against the undisputed champion.
Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez
At only 25, Jesse Rodriguez is making waves in the super flyweight category, securing his 22nd win with a commanding tenth-round stoppage of Phumelela Cafu. His boxing style has drawn comparisons to the legendary Vasiliy Lomachenko, marking him as a rising star poised for greater accolades and potential weight class advancements.
Katie Taylor
Katie Taylor, the Irish boxing sensation, continues to shine bright. Her recent victory over Amanda Serrano at Madison Square Garden saw her elevate her rivalry to a climactic end, maintaining her undefeated record against Serrano and enhancing her storied legacy within the boxing world. Should Taylor choose to retire, she’s done so on a high note, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Hamzah Sheeraz
Hamzah Sheeraz faced a challenging fight against Edgar Berlanga but emerged victorious, delivering a standout performance that could reshape his career trajectory. Sheeraz’s abilities shone through after he adopted a unique fighting style that ultimately overwhelmed his opponent in less than five rounds, thus positioning him for potential recognition at the 168-pound level.
Manny Pacquiao
Returning to the ring at the age of 46, Manny Pacquiao faced mixed responses after being initially ranked fifth by the WBC, only to be removed due to a clerical error regarding his legendary status. Despite minimal activity over the previous six years, Pacquiao managed to earn a majority draw against Mario Barrios in a title matchup. While some may question the state of his fitness, the fight rekindled interest, although it raises concerns about future bouts against more formidable opponents in the welterweight division.
Noteworthy Fumbles
Francisco Rodriguez and the WBC
On the troubled side of boxing this month was Francisco Rodriguez, who faced scrutiny for competing even after failing drug tests. His recent interim title win against Galal Yafai has been overshadowed by doping allegations that have tainted the legitimacy of his recent accomplishments. The WBC’s handling of Rodriguez’s violations casts a shadow over its commitment to fairness in the sport.
Mario Barrios
Mario Barrios, at just 30 years old, continues to linger in a state of uncertainty following a drawn fight in his recent title outing with Pacquiao. His inability to secure victories has rendered him less appealing in a competitive field, limiting opportunities for advancement in a historic weight division.
Edgar Berlanga
After a tough defeat to Sheeraz, Edgar Berlanga’s pre-fight bravado contrasted starkly with the reality of his performance, which saw him overpowered and relegated in pursuit of lucrative fight opportunities. Berlanga must regroup if he wishes to remain relevant among top-tier contenders.
Gervonta Davis
Davis’s career took a downturn following his arrest on domestic violence charges, which complicates his standing in the sport and impacts upcoming fights. His actions have begun to erode the goodwill and support from boxing audiences, adding to the pressures already facing him amid legal troubles.
Turki Alalshikh
Lastly, promoter Turki Alalshikh stirred controversy following a defeat by Sebastian Fundora, making disparaging remarks about Tim Tszyu. Such comments raise concerns about the sportsmanship expected of influential figures in boxing, hinting at a more troubling future for the sport under the influence of such personalities.
As the boxing community reflects on July’s performances, fans and analysts alike are left eager for what the next month holds in a sport characterized by its unpredictability and drama.
