Recent Highlights in Boxing
This past weekend underscored the dynamism of boxing, showcasing Oleksandr Usyk’s dominance in the heavyweight division as he dispatched Daniel Dubois in five rounds, further solidifying his claim as the top pound-for-pound fighter globally. Simultaneously, the legendary Manny Pacquiao made a long-awaited return to the ring after a four-year hiatus, facing Mario Barrios in a majority draw. With these significant events behind us, boxing enthusiasts shift their gaze to the enticing matchups awaiting us in the latter half of 2025.
Upcoming Anticipated Matchups
One of the most eagerly anticipated confrontations scheduled for September 13 is the clash between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford for the undisputed super middleweight championship, promising to be the highlight of the year’s boxing calendar. However, many fans are left wondering what other high-stakes bouts could materialize in the near future.
Usyk’s Next Steps
Following Usyk’s impressive win over Dubois, there’s discussion about his next potential opponent. Before the highly speculated trilogy fight with Tyson Fury can take place, Usyk might first face Joseph Parker, the WBO’s mandatory challenger. This matchup would not only serve as a way to maintain Usyk’s grip on the WBO title but would also conveniently position him for the much-anticipated showdown with Fury, who has indicated his return to the ring next year after a break following his defeat to Usyk in December 2024.
Parker, a former WBO champion with an impressive record of 36 wins (24 by knockout) and only three losses, has rejuvenated his career under the guidance of trainer Andy Lee since overcoming a prior setback against Joe Joyce in 2022. His recent victories, including a decisive win over Deontay Wilder and a stoppage of Martin Bakole, illustrate his readiness to challenge Usyk. Though other contenders like Agit Kabayel are calling for a shot at Usyk, Parker’s connection to Fury and his wealth of experience from multiple title defenses makes him a prime candidate for the next bout.
Emerging Fighters
Another pair of fighters generating buzz in the boxing world are Teofimo Lopez and Rolando Romero, who dazzled at the Times Square boxing card in May. Lopez, currently the WBO junior welterweight champion with a 22-1 record, is seeking to rise in the competitive welterweight division and could face Romero, who recently pulled off a stunning upset against Ryan Garcia. Both fighters bring contrasting styles—Lopez with his refined technical abilities and Romero with his explosive, unpredictable power—which adds intrigue to a potential showdown.
Potential High-Profile Bouts
Amid discussions of upcoming fights, there are whispers about a potentially lucrative bout between Anthony Joshua and YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. Although Joshua is coming off a significant defeat to Dubois and is expected to be sidelined due to elbow surgery, a clash with Paul would certainly attract immense global attention despite questions regarding its competitiveness. Joshua’s impressive pedigree in the sport suggests he would be favored to win, yet the financial allure of a bout against Paul is undeniable.
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated rematch between Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr. is facing uncertainties, prompting Benn to consider other formidable opponents such as WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson. While Stevenson’s superb amateur background gives him an edge, Benn’s natural size and power could pose a significant challenge, making this potential matchup an exciting prospect.
Women’s Boxing and Cruiserweight Showdowns
Katie Taylor, who recently triumphed in her own trilogy with Amanda Serrano, may also contemplate a third encounter with Chantelle Cameron, the only fighter to have previously bested her in the ring. With the women’s boxing scene gaining traction, a rematch could be one of the year’s most highly awaited bouts.
Finally, at cruiserweight, the impending clash between IBF champion Jai Opetaia and WBA/WBO champion Joe Smith Jr. could bring the division the spotlight it desperately needs. Opetaia has established himself as a dominant force but recognizes Ramirez as a worthy opponent to unify the titles further.
As the boxing landscape continues to evolve, fans have plenty of compelling matchups to anticipate and engage in passionate discussions about potential outcomes in the coming months.
