Upcoming Boxing Weekend Highlights
As the boxing world gears up for an action-packed weekend, it’s hard to ignore the shadows cast by recent events, most notably the standout performance during the midweek boxing card in Lagos. The show, aptly called “Chaos in the Ring,” saw Brandon Glanton secure a dramatic sixth-round TKO against Marcus Browne, leaving boxing fans eager for what lies ahead this Saturday. Here’s a rundown of the key bouts and storylines to keep an eye on:
Key Bouts
The Featherweight Clash in Scotland
Nathaniel Collins, known as the “New King of Scotland” with a record of 17 wins (8 by knockout), is set to face Cristobal Lorente (20 wins, 0 losses, 2 draws, 8 KOs) in a match that guarantees one of their undefeated records will vanish. Both fighters are vying for the EBU European featherweight title at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow. This matchup carries extra emotional weight for Collins, who has overcome significant health challenges through his life, including a serious condition called gastroschisis. He’s looking to make a statement and solidify his status in the 126-pound division as he headlined for the first time as a professional.
Tension Builds for the British Lightweight Title
The British lightweight title will be on the line when Scottish champion Regan Glackin (16-0, 3 KOs) meets Louie O’Doherty (10-0, 2 KOs), the English titleholder. Both fighters share a combined total of only five knockouts, hinting at a match likely to go the distance. With high stakes involved and their records on the line, excitement runs high as neither fighter can afford to falter in this intense contest.
Masternak’s Bid for Win Number 50
In Zakopane, Poland, Mateusz Masternak will be aiming for a milestone victory as he chases his 50th professional win against Belgian Joel Tambwe Djeko (19-3-1, 9 KOs). Masternak, at 38 years old and with a history of resilience, is determined to reclaim the EBU European cruiserweight title. His aspirations do not merely rest on achieving a number; this is also a crucial step toward potential opportunities for significant fights in the next couple of years.
Umar Dzambekov’s Firsts in the US
Amsterdam-based Umar Dzambekov steps into the spotlight on Friday night with several firsts on his checklist. Holding an undefeated record of 12-0 (8 KOs), he aims to establish himself further in the American market by facing Artem Brusov, a fighter known for his knockout power. The bout, which also marks his first ten-round contest, could open doors to lucrative opportunities in the burgeoning world of Zuffa Boxing, presuming he delivers an impressive performance in the ring.
The Long-Awaited Heavyweight Showdown
As we look ahead, 2025 may mark the first year since 2007 without a bout involving either Anthony Joshua or Tyson Fury, two titans of British boxing. The anticipation around their long-discussed matchup continues to build, as reports suggest both fighters may finally be willing to settle their ongoing rivalry. Though Fury claims to be retired, the allure of a high-stakes matchup alongside considerable financial incentives might pull him back into the ring. Talks of potential promotions with Saudi financial backing hint that the timing for this highly-anticipated clash may soon be right.
Boxing fans have a range of emotions awaiting them this weekend; from promising prospects and emerging threats to the intriguing conversations around heavyweight titans, there’s no shortage of action to capture attention.
