The Boxing Truth®

Joshua-Paul: Another Curiosity, Or Legitimate Fight?

2025-12-17T11:00:00.000-08:00

On December 19th, aspiring boxer Jake Paul, who had previously been known as a social media influencer, will return to the ring for his fourteenth professional fight. While this noted Boxing scribe has been critical of Paul, who has frequently boasted about his desire to become a world champion, but has not compiled a resume of opponents that would suggest legitimacy of trying to attain that goal, having faced primarily fighters who have come from the sport of MMA, who had limited or no Boxing experience, or those who have come either from an influencer background or in one case one retired hall of fame fighter who was twenty years removed from a competitive fight, while simultaneously giving him credit for his promotional savvy and in particular what he has done in advocating and helping advance and elevate Women's Boxing, to be honest, I did not feel optimistic when Paul's original fight, which was to take place during the month of November was announced.

This was due to Paul, who has fought most of his fights as a 190lb. Cruiserweight and in one instance against an advanced-aged Mike Tyson at Heavyweight, choosing to face Gervonta Davis, who while an active fighter, who is at or near the top of the sport, had never fought above the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division. To say that the idea of a flight between the two gave this observer vibes of something strictly intended to generate buzz and the look of a physical mismatch is an understatement. Fortunately, I was not the only one who felt this way as the announcement was met with no shortage of criticism from both those of us who cover the sport as well as fans. Criticism that ultimately led to the Georgia State Athletic Commission, as the bout was originally slated to take place in Atlanta, refusing to sanction the bout, even as an exhibition, resulting in the event being moved to Miami, FL, whose commission unfortunately has a history of accepting events that were denied from taking place in other jurisdictions for reasons including, but not limited to medical grounds, as was the case when the Florida State Athletic Commission greenlit the unfortunate Evander Holyfield-Vitor Belfort event in 2021, a fiasco that yours truly was extremely critical of, which I stand by, agreed to hold the announced Paul-Davis event.

Perhaps a blessing in disguise, however, emerged when Davis was removed from the bout due to accusations of domestic violence. The blessing in disguise reference is in no way a commentary on the ongoing issues Gervonta Davis finds himself dealing with, but is in reference to that situation indirectly saving the commission in Florida, where this observer also resides, from having to defend what would likely have been another controversial decision by allowing that event to go forward given the significant size and weight disparity between Paul and Davis.

Nevertheless, the circumstances of which the event fell apart left Paul as well as digital subscription general entertainment network Netflix, who also broadcast Paul’s fight against Tyson in its first foray into the sport of Boxing, with a conundrum of trying to find a suitable opponent to replace Davis so at least Paul could compete before the end of 2025 after previously defeating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. earlier this year.

While Chavez is one of five previous Paul opponents with a Boxing background, the perception I had was that if someone was going to step in on what would be short notice, it would likely have been a fighter from the sport of MMA, as whether seen as legitimate in pushing towards his goal of eventually fighting for a world title or not, has been a successful approach at least in terms of making sure events take place even if original dates end up being changed. To the surprise of many, yours truly included, former two-time World Heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua stepped in and will face Paul in a scheduled ten round Heavyweight bout at the Kaysa Center in Miami that will be broadcast worldwide by Netflix.

Upon being notified of this change in opponent, in all honesty with the reader, my initial thought was at least the Florida State Athletic Commission would not face as much criticism as would have been the case if the event had gone on with Davis as the opponent. My other thought was at least this has the potential to be viewed as a legitimate fight.

The Cruiserweight division is only one division away from the Heavyweight division and regardless of what one might have thought about Paul's eight rounds against Mike Tyson in November of last year, Paul did move to in weight for it so the initial thought was this would not be something that the central topic would be about a weight difference because numerous fighters who have fought as Cruiserweights at one time or another over decades, long before Paul was born in the 1990’s, have fought in the Heavyweight division either originally starting at Heavyweight and moving down in weight or starting at Cruiserweight and moving up in weight. This will be more a question of whether Paul with limited experience will be able to compete against someone who has fought at a much higher level and is closer to his physical prime than Tyson and Chavez were when they shared the ring with Paul.

From skillset, to level of competition, to having an advantage in both height and weight, every metric that one could point to in comparing two fighters, favors Joshua. Despite those facts, Joshua is coming into this fight off of a knockout loss at the hands of then IBF World Heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois in September of last year and the perception, which could have some validity is Joshua's punch resistance is not what it once was and he has also been known to fatigue later in fights. The obvious question here is whether Paul has the polish in order to try and exploit those perceived flaws.

As has been the case for most of Jake Paul's fights, the element of curiosity is there, but some are likely questioning if this will be a legitimate fight. Regardless of what one might think, Jake Paul does have a fan following that enables him to draw significant interest regardless of who he fights. It is debatable as to whether or not that ability has started to wane due to his not facing fighters that will push him up the ladder towards contention, with the perception being that most of his fights have been more about the event than expected competition.

In this case, the curiosity remains, but there is a better than average chance that Paul will be tested here as when he is at his best Anthony Joshua has power in either hand and can be devastating when he lands flush on an opponent. What one needs to also keep in mind here is, despite being knocked out in his last fight in a failed attempt to become a three-time World Heavyweight champion, Joshua is still considered one of the top Heavyweight contenders and if one views the objectively, he has very little to gain here by facing a fighter that many would consider a novice strictly based on his resume. It is also an open secret that there might be significant plans for Joshua in 2026 towards getting back in line to try and regain a Heavyweight title. Paul meanwhile is also taking a risk in that he has not faced anyone that would make one consider him a prospect or contender, but is now taking a steep step up in class.

The era in which we all live is one where folks for whatever their motivations like to vent their grievances via social media on just about any topic one could think of. No matter who Paul has fought, he too has not been immune from such rhetoric whether legitimate or not. This is a scenario where most people if they are objective would say at minimum, Paul has an uphill battle given his limited resume and previous competition. If he were to find himself on the receiving end of a quick knockout here, the opinion of many of those keyboard warrior types will likely be that none of his previous fights were legitimate, or at least that will be the narrative some will attempt to push. If he holds his own, but still loses criticism will remain. If he wins, the criticism and narrative will be that Joshua was a shot fighter at minimum or will devolve into accusations of fixed fights, which has been a narrative some have pushed in recent fights, but often such claims have lacked legitimate evidence to support it.

What that all amounts to is a no win scenario for Paul. The silver lining, however, if he can pull off what would be a significant upset here is he might finally be forced to face boxers and active ones exclusively. While Paul is rated in the top twenty of contenders by the WBA, a sanctioning organization that does not do it's best to avoid controversy, in the Cruiserweight division, despite not facing anyone in the WBA’s rankings to earn a spot in the rankings,a win over a fighter of Joshua's resume and caliber would likely lead to a ranking at Heavyweight as well.

It is a truly unlikely scenario and an unlikely encounter where two fighters are rolling the dice on their futures. We will simply have to wait and see how it all plays out.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

Joshua vs. Paul takes place on Friday, December 19th at the Kaysa Center in Miami, FL. The fight can be seen on digital subscription general entertainment network Netflix beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT. (*North American Times Only.*)

(*Card Subject To Change.*)

For more information about Netflix including availability on streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.Netflix.com.

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Jack-Mikaeljan II Thoughts

2025-12-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

The rematch between WBC World Cruiserweight champion Badou Jack and the man whom he took the title from in May of this year Noel Mikaeljan, on December 13th in Los Angeles, CA at Ace Mission Studios was one that was rooted in controversy. Controversy in what led to the immediate mandated rematch ordered by the WBC in what was a controversial majority decision victory for Jack in the first fight, which subsequently led to bad blood between the fighters and their respective camps.

What would occur when the two fighters squared off for the second time can be described as lopsided and at times ugly. From the opening bell it was the former champion Mikaeljan taking the initiative and bringing the fight to the forty-two year old former two-division world champion,who was now in his second reign as WBC World Cruiserweight champion. One thing that was immediately noticeable was Mikaeljan consistently came forward and frequently found a home for his right hand. Though the punches he was able to land were solid and he was able yo briefly stun the champion with qcjab in the early going, Jack was able to take the punches well.

Mikaeljan’s approach, however, did succeed in keeping Jack from being able to find a consistent rhythm. The champion’s ability to land body shots gradually made things close and competitive, but from the perspective of this observer, Mikaeljan’s tempo, initiating the combat, and getting the best of most of the exchanges were enough to edge most of the rounds.

In round seven, Jack would land his best punch of the entire fight when he connected with a flush right hand to the jaw that sent sweat flying off Mikaeljan's face and frankly had the sound that resembled a gun going off. Despite this, Mikaeljan did not flinch and kept pressing forward from a shot that would have likely dropped many fighters. Mikaeljan’s display of a granite chin, however, would not prevent him from being penalized a point later in the round for holding and hitting Jack on the inside as the combat gradually became ugly with both fighters implementing not so legal tactics when fighting in close.

Although he seemingly was given a leg up in a fight that seemed to be getting away from him with his opponent being penalized a point, that perk would be taken away from Jack in the closing seconds of round eight when he hit Mikaeljan on the break as Referee Jerry Cantu, who was officiating his final fight as a referee after twenty-six years and nearly six hundred bouts as a referee was attempting to separate the fighters. This resulted in a near riot at the end of the round as both fighters continued throwing punches and tensions between their camps nearly boiled over into a near melee.

After a brief delay to both settle things down and likely to confer with the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) to see if a disqualification was warranted on either side, the fight continued. At this point in the fight both fighters were fighting the effects of fatigue as both began to be a bit sloppy with their offense, but the tempo that had been established early on in the bout did not change and Mikaeljan would ultimately regain his title via a convincing twelve round unanimous decision.

Despite the ugly scene at the end of the eighth round, the two fighters did embrace after the conclusion of the bout and Jack was humble in a post-fight interview in saying that it was Mikaeljan’s night and he was the better man. When questioned about a potential third fight, Jack appeared to suggest that he would be heading toward retirement as the former 2008 Olympian and world champion in the Super-Middleweight and Cruiserweight divisions said he had a great career.

As for the now two-time WBC World Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaeljan, if a third fight with Jack is not in the pipeline, and based on both what he said after his loss and body language, it appears as though Jack may be entertaining life after Boxing after this fight, Mikaeljan could look to attempt to unify the title and the top fighter in the view of many in the Cruiserweight division currently is the unbeaten IBF World Cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, who recently scored an eighth round knockout in a title defense on December 6th in his native Australia of Huseyin Cinkara.

The long-standing perception of the Cruiserweight division is it is void of the type of interest and consistent publicity/coverage that is normally afforded to other weight classes throughout the sport. With Opetaia having established himself as a crowd pleasing knockout artist and with Mikaeljan’s come forward, volume punching style, it would make sense to make that fight to hopefully keep the spotlight focused on the division and likely a good payday for both parties.

“And That's The Boxing Truth."

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MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS AND NETFLIX ANNOUNCE ON-AIR TALENT FOR MVP’S JAKE VS. JOSHUA

2025-12-15T23:01:00.000-08:00

Press Release: December 15, 2025 By Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix - Laila Ali, Andre Ward, Lennox Lewis, Kate Scott, Mauro Ranallo, David Haye, Crystina Poncher, Sean Wheelock, Ariel Helwani, Sibley Scoles, and Kody “Big Mo” Mommaerts join the star-studded fight night broadcast roster, with additional fight week support from Corey Erdman

NEW YORK, NY – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Netflix today announced the broadcast team for all fight week events and the Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day mega-event, beginning on Tuesday, December 16 and culminating on Friday, December 19 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.

On Friday, December 19, the Jake vs. Joshua preliminary card begins at 4:45pm ET / 1:45pm PT on Netflix’s Tudum and MVP’s YouTube Channel, with the main card starting at 8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT, live only on Netflix. MVP and Netflix’s fight night coverage will feature a powerhouse lineup of broadcasting veterans and combat sports legends anchored by broadcaster Kate Scott as the main desk host, joined by a world-class team of desk analysts including heavyweight legend Lennox Lewis, undefeated Hall of Famer Laila Ali, and former undefeated world champion Andre Ward.

The ringside team will be led by the iconic voice of Mauro Ranallo on blow-by-blow, with expert analysis provided by former world champion David Haye and Crystina Poncher. Sean Wheelock will serve as the rules and scoring expert. Sibley Scoles will serve as reporter, providing updates from backstage and the crowd, with Ariel Helwani serving as ringside reporter. The night will be emceed by in-ring announcer Kody “Big Mo” Mommaerts.

Ahead of Jake vs. Joshua, Netflix and MVP will host a series of fight week events open to the public.

On Tuesday, December 16, MVP Fight Week Showcase 2 will take place at LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Kody “Big Mo” Mommaerts will serve as emcee. Commentary and blow-by-blow analysis for the sanctioned, professional fights will be provided by Corey Erdman and Crystina Poncher on the livestream desk. Entertainment personality Sibley Scoles will serve as ringside reporter. The entire showcase event will stream live on stream live on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT.

On Wednesday, December 17, the final Jake vs. Joshua Press Conference will take place at Fillmore Miami Beach hosted by renowned combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani. The press conference will stream live on stream live on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT.

On Thursday, December 18, the Public Weigh-Ins will take place at Fillmore Miami Beach, with Kody “Big Mo” Mommaerts serving as emcee with support from Ariel Helwani as on-stage reporter. The broadcast desk will be hosted by Sibley Scoles with analysis from David Haye and Crystina Poncher. The weigh-in will stream live on stream live on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT.

“When you’re delivering a global event of this magnitude on Netflix, every detail matters, especially the voices telling the story,” said Nakisa Bidarian, CEO of Most Valuable Promotions. “This broadcast team represents the absolute best in boxing, sports media, and live television. From legendary champions to world-class broadcasters, this group reflects the standard we’ve set for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day. Together with Netflix, we’re building a fight week and fight night experience that feels truly historic, and this team is central to bringing that vision to life for fans around the world.”

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @Netflix, on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @Netflix, or on Netflix’s Tudum.

About Netflix

Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services, with over 300 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films, and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause, and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last seven global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Chavez Jr. match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. MVP followed that up by Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3 in July 2024 the first all women’s boxing card to be featured on Netflix. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

Material Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix Used with permission.

Jack-Mikaeljan II Weights

2025-12-13T03:30:39.405-08:00

WBC World Cruiserweight champion Badou Jack and former WBC World Cruiserweight champion Norair Mikaeljan weighed in on Friday at an identical 199 ¾ lbs. for their rematch tonight (Saturday, December 13th) at Ace Mission Studios in Los Angeles, CA. The twelve round bout, which can be seen later tonight on pay-per-view, is a rematch of a highly controversial bout in May of this year in which Jack became a two-time WBC Cruiserweight world champion by defeating Mikaeljan via twelve round majority decision.

As was the case in the first fight, the WBC World Cruiserweight championship, will be on the line in the second encounter that was mandated by the World Boxing Council. We are planning to have a post-fight column here on The Boxing Truth® during the week following the bout and will update readers on when it will be released once scheduled.. Stay tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

Jack vs. Mikaeljan takes place on Saturday, December 13th at Ace Mission Studios in Los Angeles, CA. The fight can be seen on a pay-per-view basis on a variety of cable/satellite providers and streaming platforms including Prime Video, PPV.com, and Triller TV and their respective streaming apps available on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices and Smart TVs. for $29.95 beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT. (*North American Times Only*) (*Card Subject To Change*) contact your Pay-TV provider or click the highlighted links above for ordering information, how to download the respective app of your choice on your streaming device of choice, and for availability internationally.

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Jack-Mikaeljan: The Rematch

2025-12-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

In May of this year on the undercard of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez successfully becoming an Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion for a second time with a convincing twelve round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten IBF world champion William Scull in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, two-division world champion Badou Jack did battle with WBC World Cruiserweight world champion Norair Mikaeljan with the WBC Cruiserweight crown at stake. A close and competitive fight throughout where the champion Mikaeljan was the busier of the two fighters, but Jack in the view of most observers landed the harder punches. Despite a wide advantage for the champion in terms of CompuBox statistics in out landing Jack in total landed punches 153 to 122 over the course of the twelve round world title bout, it would be Jack who would emerge victorious via a razor-thin majority decision, making him a two-time holder of the WBC World Cruiserweight championship after briefly holding it only to vacate it in 2023. Mikaeljan, the fighter who succeeded Jack as WBC champion, appealed to the sanctioning organization in the aftermath of the bout in May and was granted an immediate rematch.

A rematch that will take place on Saturday, December 13th at the Ace Mission Studios in Los Angeles, CA, that will headline a pay-per-view card that will be available on a variety of cable/satellite, and streaming platforms. In some respects, though seeing a former world champion being granted a rematch is not unusual and rare in the sport of Boxing, this is somewhat of a rarity.

After all, the Cruiserweight division, also known as the Jr. Heavyweight division as it sits between the Light-Heavyweight and Heavyweight divisions amongst Boxing’s seventeen weight classes, has almost always been void of the type of publicity and mainstream exposure that are often afforded to other divisions. One has to go almost forty years to when a young future legend and Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield engaged in a fifteen round war with the recently deceased two-division world champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi to win the WBA Jr, Heavyweight world championship in July 1986 to find a time and a fighter that brought consistent exposure to the division. Holyfield’s first world title would ultimately serve as a launching pad as he quickly unified the Cruiserweight division becoming its first undisputed world champion before embarking on the Heavyweight division, ultimately becoming the only fighter in Boxing history to have won a World Heavyweight championship on four separate occasions. As great as Holyfield proved to be as a fighter, a legitimate argument can be made that when he exited the Cruiserweight division having quickly cleaned the division out by 1988, he took whatever spotlight the division was benefiting from with him. It is also true that the last man to hold the undisputed title in the division, Oleksandr Usyk, immediately did what Holyfield had done decades earlier by vacating the title and ultimately becoming the first fighter in Boxing history to fully unify the Heavyweight division twice.

Perhaps a more cynical point of view is that the most consistent attention the division receives in the present day in the sport comes from the aspiring boxer and promoter Jake Paul, who still faces questions regarding his legitimacy as a fighter having never faced an opponent that would be considered a fringe prospect or contender to this point in his career. When one takes all of the above into consideration, the fact that the Jack-Mikaeljan rematch has generated the buzz it has, should be viewed as a positive both for the Cruiserweight division and the fighters themselves.

The premise of this return encounter in the eyes of this observer will come down to whether Mikaeljan will be able to not only duplicate his performance from the first fight seven months ago, but to do so in a more convincing fashion where the judges will give him the benefit of the doubt. While I personally felt he did enough to retain his title back in May, what is often misunderstood is punch statistics though often serving as an illustration of what goes on in a fight, is not a part of official scoring criteria and as such if one fighter is able to give an impression that they are landing harder punches, though not being as consistent in output as their opponent, that perception of doing more damage with their offense can result in a judge scoring rounds for that fighter and ignoring the aspect of overall activity. Mikaeljan, who will enter this rematch with a record of 27-3, with 12 Knockouts, must find a way to be more convincing as to not allow the judges room to sway their opinions, particularly if Jack is able to land solidly as he did in the first fight.

The champion meanwhile, who comes into his first title defense of his second reign as WBC World Cruiserweight champion, with a record of 29-3-3, with 17 Knockouts, needs to find a way to be busier throughout this fight. Neither fighter is known for their punching power and though one can never discount the possibility of a knockout, the more probable scenario here is this fight, like its predecessor, will go the twelve round distance. What makes that potentially crucial is Badou Jack has shown a tendency to be periodically sluggish in his fights and, despite getting the nod from two official judges in the first fight by a seven rounds to five margin or 115-113 in points, he cannot allow himself to fall into any kind of hole here in terms of scoring this time around, especially with the view of many that the first fight should have went in favor of Mikaeljan.

It is also very much within the realm of possibility here that if Norair Mikaeljan can turn the tables and win this fight that we could see a third encounter. For a division that seems to always be in a state of both obscurity and flux in terms of who is at or near the top of it, that would probably be welcomed as it will keep a spotlight on the division. If such a spotlight and subsequent discussion that will follow is for positive reasons, it will be a win for the sport. Before we get ahead of ourselves, Badou Jack and Norair Mikaeljan have business to tend to and it remains to be seen if this is a conclusion or merely the next chapter in what could be a rivalry.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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Can Lamont Roach Get A Fair Shake?

2025-12-09T05:31:00.000-08:00

The fight between Isaac Cruz and former WBA Jr. Lightweight world champion Lamont Roach on December 6th in San Antonio, TX not only was an encounter between two of the best fighters currently in the sport of Boxing, but also represented Roach’s debut in the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division. One could also say that Roach was riding a career high after receiving a draw in his previous bout in March with the talented, but troubled Gervonta Davis. In facing Cruz, Roach was in some ways going back into a fire pit by facing a fighter known for his aggression that while not known for the type of knockout power that Davis had, has a non-stop come forward, pressure attack that many fighters including Davis have found difficult to combat. It was also a fight that Roach openly sought after not being able to secure a rematch with Davis.

The question of this fight was both simple and complex. Would Roach be able to deal with a fighter like Cruz who suffocates opponents with pressure and could he do so ten pounds heavier than where he was a world champion in the 130lb. Jr. Featherweight division? It became apparent early on when the two fighters met at the Frost Bank Center that Cruz had every intention of being as difficult a task to combat as he has been for virtually every opponent he has ever faced.

By applying pressure early, Cruz made it difficult for Roach, a well-rounded boxer/puncher, to find a consistent rhythm by forcing him to stand and fight on the inside, which is not typically the norm for Roach, who uses lateral movement and angles to attack his opponents. This approach for Cruz, the current WBC number one Jr. Welterweight contender, by making it a rough and at times ugly fight, was highlighted in round three when he was credited with a knockdown when a left hook to the jaw knocked Roach off balance where one of his gloves touched the canvas. Although this was the correct call by Referee James Green, it was a cruel irony that the first knockdown of Roach’s career came in a similar manner as when he was not credited with a knockdown when Davis took a knee in the ninth round of their fight back in March of this year. In that instance, however, a knockdown, which would have been the correct call was not made and that error, arguably resulted in that fight being scored a draw and not a victory for Roach as many observers, including this one, felt he deserved.

Unfortunately for Roach, the irony and the cruelty would not stop with the knockdown here, despite that ruling being correct. From the point in which Roach got up from the knockdown, he gradually got himself into a rhythm by throwing short and consistent combinations that often caught Cruz as he came forward. Often when Cruz did get in close, he clinched and held Roach on the inside. It was such holding that often resembled more grappling on the inside as opposed to what is considered holding to necessitate a separation from the referee or holding when the fighter doing so is hurt and trying to avoid being knocked down or out, that resulted in him being penalized a point for holding excessively in round seven. By that point, however, Roach seemed to have nullified the effects of the knockdown in round three in terms of points as this observer felt, though many of the rounds remained competitive, he took over the tempo of the fight and carried the action for the remainder of the twelve round bout.

At the conclusion of the twelve round fight, I arrived with a 114-111 scorecard in favor of Lamont Roach. A three point margin, but I had Roach winning eight rounds to four. Normally when there is an eight-four margin in a twelve round fight, one usually arrives at a 116-112 scorecard in points. The three point margin rather than a four point margin is a reflection of both the knockdown of Roach in round three, which was scored 10-8 in favor of Isaac Cruz per it being a round where he scored a knockdown, and the point deduction against Cruz in round seven in a round where he was losing the round prior to that penalizing. Without the point being taken from him, he would have lost the round by a score of 10-9. The deduction, however, resulted in a 10-8 score and ultimately how I ended up with a 114-111 final score rather than the standard 116-112 score for an eight rounds to four margin.

The thorough explanation and analysis of scoring from yours truly is moot in this case as the result of this fight would ultimately be a majority draw with only one judge, having a victor in Cruz on his scorecard. The cruelty for Roach is that this is now the second consecutive fight in less than a year where he was held to a draw in a fight many feel he won.

The question I have coming out of this fight is Can Lamont Roach get a fair shake, or as several fighters in previous eras have had a label placed on them, has Roach become Boxing’s latest hard luck fighter? A label usually reserved for fighters who either end up with losses against more notable opposition or end up with draws as Roach has now done twice. For his part, Roach did not hide his frustration in a post-fight interview in the ring immediately after the decision was announced calling the verdict quote “Bullshit” and saying he was tired of not getting a fair shake. While this observer does not often display expletives in his writings per professional/journalistic standards, the quote offered by a frustrated fighter in Lamont Roach, who has proven to be one of the best fighters in the sport, despite not getting the victories in these two recent outings that many feel, including yours truly that he deserved, was both blunt and one that many fighters throughout history have expressed at one time or another when on the wrong end of a decision they felt should have gone their way, whether justified in those feelings or not.

It is hard to not sympathize with a fighter that clearly has the talent and credentials to be one of the top fighters of his era, who feels like they were not given the credit/victory they felt they were due. Unfortunately, the Cruz-Roach bout will also now take its place as the latest in a long line of controversial fights over decades to be held in the state of Texas, which have often revolved around controversial scoring. Whether this decision, like Roach’s bout with Gervonta Davis, which was held in Brooklyn, NY is simply a case of judges, who like the rest of us, are human beings, having a bad night at the office is something that will likely be debated. What is perhaps more troublesome for sanctioning organizations and state and international regulatory boards is if fighters feel that they aren't being treated fairly and that perception slowly spreads amongst fellow fighters and subsequently gains public support, it will become increasingly harder to hold combat sports events and have the credibility that it is truly an even playing field for all combatants where adequate decisions will be rendered. When one also considers the times in which we live where it is all too easy for one, whether they have credibility or not, to air their grievances publicly, such controversies should not be dismissed.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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BKB 49 Dance of the Dragons Results

2025-12-08T08:50:00.000-08:00

Credit: Nick Ledger/BKB Bareknuckle Boxing

Press Release: December 8, 2025 By BKB: Bareknuckle Boxing - BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing finished out its historic 2025 Friday night December 5 in front of a sold-out crowd at the Vale Arena in Cardiff, Wales with BKB 49: Dance of the Dragons.

In the main event, Rolando Dy defeated Liam Rees in front of Rees’ home crowd to become BKB Super Welterweight champion. In doing so, Dy, son of former WBC Super Featherweight Champion Rolando Navarrett, made history, becoming the first bare knuckle boxing world champion from the Philippines. The duo becomes the first father-son pair to hold world championships in boxing and bare knuckle.

In the evening’s fight of the night, two of BKB’s best young Super Middleweights brought the crowd to its feet as Wales’ Keiron Harding out-slugged Scotland’s David Winiarski, winning by third round TKO by doctor’s stoppage.

Simey Doherty defeated Kallum Skhane by split decision in a closely-fought matchup showcasing each’s technical boxing abilities.

Bellator/PFL veteran Lee Chadwick put BKB on notice after his impressive first-round knockout in his bare knuckle debut against Rob Boardman.

In a battle of Welsh heavyweights, up-and-coming Troy Palmer defeated gloved and bare knuckle veteran Dorian Darch by third-round knockout.

Jack Marshman, the first Welsh fighter to compete in the UFC, made quick work of 19-bare knuckle fight veteran Paul Hilz in what was to be his retirement match, before leaving the door open to a return in his post-fight interview.

A new bare knuckle star was born in the show’s opener as 21-year-old Iestyn Edwards, brother of 17-1 boxer Rhys Edwards, earned knockout of the night with a first round KO over Joe Randall in his professional debut.

Preliminary Matches

Slovakia’s Robert Koky picked up his second straight win in the Trigon with a unanimous decision over Tom Pratt.

Ethan George impressed in his debut with a big first-round body-shot knockout of Shaun Rafferty.

Corey Healey-Marcin Kosiak ended in no contest after an inadvertent second-round takedown resulted in injury to Healey.

Geraint Goodridge defeated Ruairi McCarthy by second-round TKO.

Material of: BKB Bareknuckle Boxing/ Photo Courtesy of: Nick Ledger/ BKB Bareknuckle Boxing Used with permission.

BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing Returns to its London Home, The indigo at the O2 on Saturday, February 21, 2026

2025-12-05T11:05:00.000-08:00

Credit: BKB

Press Release: December 6, 2025 By BKB: Bareknuckle Boxing - BKB 51 will be headlined by “The Emperor of Bare Knuckle” Marko Martinjak defending his BKB Bridgerweight Championship against former BKB Heavyweight Champion “Hurricane” Ike Villanueva.

LONDON, ENGLAND – BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing announced today its return to the indigo at the O2 for BKB 51, on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Said BKB CEO David Tetreault: “BKB is proud to announce its return home to the iconic indigo at the O2. This past year, with our partnership with talkSPORT and our expansion to all corners of the UK, BKB has solidified itself as the top promotion in the country. It's only fitting that we kick off our 2026 European calendar year in London with a return to the indigo where our company has sold out dozens of shows over the past decade.”

Headlining the card will be the first Bridgerweight title defense of Zagreb, Croatia’s 12-2 Marko Martinjak. This past October in Leeds, UK, the then Cruiserweight Champion Martinjak defeated Dan Podmore to win the Bridgerweight title and become BKB’s second two-division world champion. Shortly thereafter, Martinjak relinquished the Super Cruiserweight belt to concentrate on the Bridgerweight division.

His opponent Ike VIllanueva (Houston, Texas, USA) is the 5-2 former BKB Heavyweight Champion. Villanueva, a former UFC veteran, was successful in his initial Bridgerweight matchup this past November against former Martinjak trilogy foe Jarome Hatch.

Said Villanueva: “Kovacs, Fish, Linderman, Olsen, Hatch. I’ve built my BKB resume knocking out big, bald-headed white guys like Marko. I can’t wait to add Emperor to that list.”

Said Martinjak: “Train hard and eat well, Ike. Because on February 21st, hell will be unleashed.”

In the past two years, BKB (originally BYB) has purchased the UK-based BKB, the world’s oldest professional bare knuckle boxing company, and in doing so merged the organizations to create the largest bare knuckle boxing company in the world in terms of roster, library and distribution; ushered in ethical and legalized gambling to the sport; acquired the rights to the historic and prestigious Police Gazette Diamond Belt which now serves as the Bare Knuckle Boxing World Championship; and brought bare knuckle boxing to lineal television on both sides of the Atlantic, including the recent deal with VICE TV and Telemundo Deportes in the US, and in the UK with talkSPORT.

Tickets for BKB 51 are on sale now at bkbtickets.com/bkb51. Visit bkbbareknuckle.com and follow on social @bkbbareknuckle for tickets, information and all ways to watch.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: BKB Bareknuckle Boxing Used with permission.

Harvey vs. Cervantes Added To Joshua-Paul Card

2025-12-04T10:23:00.000-08:00

Credit:Most Valuable Promotions/Netflix

Press Release: December 4, 2025 By Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix- MVP Fight Week Showcase 2 takes place Tuesday, December 16 at 6pm ET at LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, featuring Jake vs. Joshua open workouts and three sanctioned, professional bouts featuring MVP’s Luan Medeiros, Shannon Courtenay, and Jocelyn Camarillo

MVP Jake vs. Joshua Press Conference takes place Wednesday, December 17 at 6pm ET at Fillmore Miami Beach

MVP Jake vs. Joshua Public Weigh-Ins take place Thursday, December 18 at 6pm ET at Fillmore Miami Beach

All fight week events are free and open to the public to attend on a first-come, first-served basis

MIAMI, FLORIDA – December 4, 2025 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Netflix today announced that MVP’s US Olympian, amateur world champion, and 10x US amateur national champion Jahmal Harvey (1-0, 1 KO) will open the main card of MVP’s Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day, live only on Netflix, on Friday, December 19. After a statement knockout in his pro debut, Harvey now steps into the global spotlight on Netflix vs. undefeated prospect Kevin Cervantes (5-0, 5 KOs) in a matchup designed to showcase two of the division’s most promising rising talents. Harvey vs. Cervantes will be a 6-round super featherweight bout contested at 130lbs. Tickets for Jake vs. Joshua are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

MVP and Netflix today also announced the full fight week schedule for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day, headlined by the colossal global showdown between boxing’s biggest disruptor, international superstar and WBA #15-ranked cruiserweight Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (12-1, 7 KOs) and two-time unified WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight world champion, Olympic gold medalist and knockout machine Anthony “AJ” Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs). As part of the buildup to the mega-event at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, on Friday, December 19, MVP and Netflix will host three fight week events. Kicking off the week, MVP Fight Week Showcase 2 will feature Jake vs. Joshua open workouts alongside three sanctioned, professional bouts, set to include MVP’s newest signees Luan Medeiros and Jocelyn Camarillo alongside MVP’s Shannon Courtenay at LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, followed by the MVP Fight Week press conference and public weigh-ins at Fillmore Miami Beach. All fight week events will be free and open to the public on a first come, first served basis.

On Tuesday, December 16, MVP Fight Week Showcase 2 will take place at LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, featuring open workouts for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day and three sanctioned professional fights, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT. The second installment of MVP’s fight week showcase bouts will be headlined by Brazilian national champion and MVP’s new signee Luan Medeiros (6-0, 4 KOs) vs. Mexico’s Hugo Macias (7-1-1, 5 KOs) in a 6-round lightweight bout at 135lbs. Also on the card will be MVP and England’s Shannon “The Baby Face Assassin” Courtenay (9-3, 3 KOs) vs. Jessica Radtke Maltez (2-2-2) in a 6-round bantamweight bout at 118lbs and MVP’s new signee Jocelyn Camarillo (5-0) vs. Yazmin Martinez Jimenez (3-2-2, 1 KO) in a 4-round light flyweight bout at 108 lbs. These fights will be officially sanctioned by the Florida Athletic Commission. The entire event, including the three fights, will stream live on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel.

On Wednesday, December 17, MVP and Netflix will host the official final Press Conference for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day at Fillmore Miami Beach starting at 6:00pm ET / 3:00pm PT. The press conference will feature the final war of words between main event stars Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua, co-main event stars Alycia Baumgardner and Leila Beaudoin, main card fighters Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley, as well as additional preliminary card fighters, and will stream live on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel.

On Thursday, December 18, MVP and Netflix will host the Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day public weigh-in, streaming live from Fillmore Miami Beach at 6:00pm ET / 3:00pm PT on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix Sports’ YouTube Channel.

On Friday, December 19, Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day streams live on Netflix from Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The preliminary card begins at 4:45pm ET / 1:45pm PT on MVP’s YouTube Channel and Netflix’s Tudum, with the main card starting at 8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT, live only on Netflix.

“Being on the main card of Jake vs. Joshua is a massive stage and platform to showcase my talent and really introduce Jahmal Harvey to the world; so I’m grateful to my team, MVP and Netflix for making it happen,” said Jahmal Harvey. “I’m looking to seize the moment and make a big statement to kick off the main card live on Netflix!”

“Jake vs. Joshua fight week builds up to the biggest event in boxing this year, with fight week events hosted at the iconic LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach and Fillmore Miami Beach, all free and open to the public,” said Nakisa Bidarian, CEO and co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions. “The week will begin with the return of our signature series of sanctioned, professional fights within our open workouts event, MVP Fight Week Showcase 2, spotlighting three MVP fighters: our newest signings Luan Almeida and US prospect Jocelyn Camarillo, joined by former world champion Shannon Courtenay. The week continues with a massive press conference and our public weigh-in, each bringing together the entire fight card. We also look forward to formally introducing the global Netflix audience to US Olympian Jahmal Harvey, who will open the main card of Jake vs. Joshua, and who we believe is the most promising male boxing prospect to come out of Team USA this decade.”

“MVP keeps raising the bar. Two GOATs in Anderson Silva vs. Tyron Woodley, Alycia Baumgardner ready for a takeover and doing so with men’s rules, and now Jahmal Harvey joining the main card to show the world why he’s America’s next superstar,” said Jake Paul. “Jake vs. Joshua Fight Week is stacked, it’s free for fans, and it’s all building to me shocking the world on Friday, December 19 at Kaseya Center, live only on Netflix.”

US Olympian and amateur world champion Jahmal Harvey (1-0, 1 KO) was introduced to boxing at age 13 by his football coach Darrell Davis, who also owned a boxing gym. After competing in both sports, Harvey, an Oxon Hill, Maryland native, soon went all-in on boxing and immediately proved his elite potential at the junior, youth, and amateur levels, becoming a 10x national champion. By 18, he was training and sparring with Olympians, including Keyshawn Davis and Duke Ragan. That same year, he captured gold at the 2021 Elite World Championships— becoming the first American male to win the world title since 2007, while competing as one of the youngest athletes in the tournament. The next year, he took home silver at the 2022 Continental Championships and continued to dominate at the international level in 2023, winning gold at the Santiago Pan American Games. The finish qualified him for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he finished as a quarter-finalist. The 22-year-old Harvey signed with Most Valuable Promotions ahead of his professional debut–a knockout win–on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 14 in August 2025, heralded as one of the top prospects in American boxing.

Kevin Cervantes (5-0, 5 KOs) comes to the ring from Los Angeles by way of Barranquilla, Colombia. The 25-year-old prospect holds a perfect undefeated record so far in his pro career, and comes to the ring fresh from his latest first-round TKO win in September 2025. He began boxing at just 11 years old after his parents introduced him to the sport to channel his energy and fighting spirit productively. With an impressive 87-fight amateur background, Cervantes has developed into a relentless brawler known for his aggressive, high-pressure style reminiscent of his idol, Roberto “Manos de Piedra” Durán. Defined by his hard work, discipline, and commitment, Cervantes continues to build his name in the professional ranks as one of the sport’s most determined young fighters. He is managed by Rob Suarez and trained by Oscar Negrete.

MVP’s new signee Luan Medeiros (6-0, 4 KOs) is an undefeated professional lightweight boxer and the current CNB Super Lightweight Brazilian National Champion. As an amateur, he built an extensive career with close to 150 fights, boasting over 114 wins and becoming a Brazilian National Champion, Copa del Pacífico winner in Ecuador, and a Cheo Aponte Tournament runner-up in Puerto Rico. Domestically, he won multiple regional titles, including 4x Rio de Janeiro state champion, 3x São Paulo state champion, Paraná state champion, Sul-Sudeste champion, and Centro-Oeste champion. He also represented Brazil internationally, winning team challenges against Italy and Argentina. Outside the ring, the 30-year-old Luan is known for his relationship with Brazilian A-list actress Mel Maia, who has over 21 million followers. His opponent, Hugo Macias (7-1-1, 5 KOs), is a 32-year-old prospect from Tijuana, Mexico. Macias most recently earned a 4th round TKO win in September 2025, and now makes his international boxing debut in his first pro bout outside of Mexico against Medeiros.

Former WBA bantamweight world champion at 118lbs and Abbots Langley, Hertfordshire native, Shannon Courtenay (9‑3, 3 KOs) transformed her life and career after discovering boxing in her early twenties, trading in a party lifestyle for intense discipline at Finchley ABC in London. Rising through the professional ranks beginning in March 2019, she claimed the vacant WBA female bantamweight title in April 2021, delivering a fiercely technical and emotional unanimous decision over Australia’s Ebanie Bridges in what many hailed as one of women's boxing’s best fights. Courtenay’s jab proved decisive, and she overcame early cut damage and increasing pressure to outmaneuver Bridges and increasingly exploit a swelling eye that nearly shut by round eight. Unfortunately, Courtenay was stripped of her title ahead of her first defense in October 2021 when she came in 2.5 lb over the limit, an issue she attributed to an unexpected menstrual cycle—a rare moment of honesty that highlighted health over title retention. She subsequently faced Jamie Mitchell at Liverpool’s Echo Arena, losing a hard-fought majority decision in October 2021 despite staying in the ring through adversity. Courtenay returned to the ring in October 2024, edged out with a competitive points decision defeat to Catherine Tacone Ramos in a six-round bout at London’s Copper Box Arena. She most recently defeated Bec Connolly in March 2025. Her opponent, Jessica Radtke Maltez (2-2-2) comes to the ring from Waconia, Minnesota. Maltez most recently earned a unanimous decision win in September 2025.

MVP’s new signee Jocelyn Camarillo (5-0) is a 3x amateur national champion, former #1-ranked US amateur in the light flyweight division, and a proud training partner for Team USA Youth & Elite. She proudly represents Indio, California as one of the brightest young talents coming out of the Coachella Valley boxing community. Jocelyn grew up watching boxing and developed a natural passion that eventually led her to train at the historic Coachella Valley Boxing Club, where she built a strong amateur foundation and sharpened her skills among some of the region’s best athletes. Known for her speed, accuracy, and high-IQ pressure style, Jocelyn has quickly developed a reputation as a disciplined athlete with true star potential. Both inside and outside the ring, she brings charisma, professionalism, and a growing fanbase that continues to follow her journey. As she enters the next chapter of her career with MVP, standing 5-0 on her pro career, Jocelyn is focused, hungry, and ready to take on bigger challenges. She will face Yazmin Martinez Jimenez (3-2-2, 1 KO) over 4 rounds at light flyweight. Jimenez, the 24-year-old prospect, fights out of Mexico City, Mexico and most recently earned a TKO win in March 2025 and a split draw in October 2025 against highly touted and undefeated prospect, Perla Bazaldua.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @Netflix, on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @Netflix, or on Netflix’s Tudum.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

About Netflix

About Fontainebleau Miami Beach

A spectacular blend of Golden Era glamour and modern luxury, Fontainebleau Miami Beach merges striking design, contemporary art, music, fashion, and history into a vibrant guest experience. A revered landmark and symbol of style and sophistication since its opening in 1954, Fontainebleau Miami Beach boasts 1,504 guestrooms and suites appointed with lavish amenities; the world-renowned LIV™ Nightclub, 12 restaurants and lounges including AAA Four Diamond signature restaurant Hakkasan and Mirabella, celebrating coastal Italian cuisine; the 40,000-square-foot Lapis Spa with mineral-rich water therapies and invigorating treatments; a dramatic oceanfront pool-scape offering lush cabanas; and is home to BleauLive, the innovative concert series that combines intimate performances with memorable weekend escapes. For general information or accommodations at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, visit fontainebleau.com or call 1.877.512.8002.

About Fillmore Miami Beach

Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, located in the heart of Miami Beach, is one of South Florida’s premier live entertainment venues. For more than 70 years, the 2,400-seat theater has helped shape Miami’s vibrant entertainment culture by hosting many of the world’s most celebrated artists and performances across concerts, comedy, and special events. Operated by Live Nation, Fillmore Miami Beach continues to deliver world-class live experiences for fans throughout the region and beyond.

About Kaseya Center

Located in the center of booming downtown Miami and the Entertainment District, Kaseya Center—home of the NBA Champion Miami HEAT—hosts 80+ non-basketball events each year including A-list concerts, family shows, sporting events, national conferences and more. Built with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and HD and electronic media signage inside and out, the impressive 19,600-seat Kaseya Center is currently ranked the #1 arena in Florida for the 10th consecutive year—and the 13th time during the past 14 years—according to Billboard’s 2024 year-end rankings. Kaseya Center is also among the leading facilities in the country for hosting Latin entertainment. The Center has led the renaissance of downtown Miami over the past two decades, helping to transform the area into a thriving arts and entertainment district. The facility has hosted more than 1,200 events including diverse musical superstars such as Marc Anthony, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, The Killers, Bad Bunny, Carrie Underwood, Dua Lipa, Tool, Imagine Dragons, Kane Brown, Karol G, Drake, Andrea Bocelli and Paul McCartney, just to name a few. In 2009, Kaseya Center became among the first existing buildings in the country to have achieved LEED certification by the United States Green Building Council for its commitment to sustainability practices. More recently, in 2021, the Arena achieved its second LEED gold recertification. For more information about Kaseya Center, visit kaseyacenter.com.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix Used with permission

UPDATE: Lara Now To Defend WBA World Middleweight Championship Against Gonzalez

2025-12-03T04:01:21.305-08:00

In a follow-up to a previous story we have been following here on The Boxing Truth®, it has been announced per Ring Magazine that WBA World Middleweight champion Erislandy Lara will now defend his title against Johan Gonzalez. As previously reported here on the website, Lara was to face unbeaten unified WBO/IBF World Middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly in a unification bout, but Alimkhanuly ha been pulled from the fight due to testing positive for a banned substance. As of this writing, it remains unclear as to Alimkhanuly’s status with regard to both the WBO and IBF as each respective organization’s current World Middleweight champion.

Lara, (31-3-3, with 19 Knockouts) will now defend his title against Gonzalez, (36-4, with 34 Knockouts) who is stepping in in a little less than four days notice to challenge Lara, and who is not currently rated in the top ten in the World Boxing Association’s Middleweight ratings. Lara vs. Gonzalez will take place on the undercard of the Isaac Cruz-Lamont Roach bout that will be broadcast on Prime Video pay-per-view on Saturday, December 6th in San Antonio, TX. We will continue to update readers on developments as they become available. Stay tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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BREAKING: WBO Statement Regarding Janibek Alimkhanuly

2025-12-02T21:14:00.000-08:00

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has released an official statement through its website and social media channels following it's World Middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly testing positive for a banned substance ahead of his scheduled unification bout with WBA World Middleweight champion Erislandy Lara on the undercard of the Isaac Cruz-Lamont Roach pay-per-view card scheduled for Saturday night in San Antonio, TX. As of this writing, the International Boxing Federation (IBF), whose World Middleweight championship Janibek Alimkhanuly also holds, has not released a statement regarding the situation. The WBO’s official statement can be read below.

Credit: WBO

As of this writing, the scheduled bout where the WBO, IBF, and WBA World Middleweight championships would be on the line, remains on as scheduled. We will keep readers updated on developments as they become available. Stay tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth."

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MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCES COMMERCIAL DISTRIBUTION PARTNERSHIP WITH EVERPASS MEDIA FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED JAKE VS. JOSHUA: JUDGMENT DAY EVENT

2025-12-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

Press Release: December 2, 2025 By Most Valuable Promotions- EverPass holds the exclusive commercial rights to sell and distribute the upcoming Jake vs. Joshua event to bars, restaurants and casinos nationwide

Boxing’s biggest disruptor Jake Paul challenges heavyweight powerhouse Anthony Joshua in a colossal global showdown at 8pm ET / 5pm PT on Friday, December 19, 2025 on Netflix

NEW YORK – December 2, 2025 – Most Valuable Promotions (“MVP”), the trailblazing boxing promotion founded by Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, and EverPass Media (“EverPass”), the premier media platform delivering premium live sports content to commercial businesses, today announced a commercial distribution partnership providing EverPass the exclusive right to sell and distribute MVP’s upcoming boxing mega-event between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua and also featuring a matchup between two MMA legends in Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley, to bars, restaurants and other commercial businesses in the United States. The event will take place on Friday, December 19, at Kaseya Center in Miami, FL and stream globally on Netflix.

“At Most Valuable Promotions, our mission is to bring premium, must-see fight nights to fans wherever they choose to watch,” said Nakisa Bidarian, CEO of Most Valuable Promotions. “Partnering with EverPass Media for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day ensures that fans have the chance to experience one of the biggest boxing events in a decade, in the shared energy of bars, restaurants, casinos, and commercial venues nationwide.”

“This partnership with MVP underscores EverPass’ role as the leader in bringing premium live events to the commercial market,” said Alex Kaplan, CEO of EverPass Media. “Jake Paul events reliably bring fans through the door, and EverPass turns that demand into real business impact by aggregating must-see sports and making access simple for bars and restaurants.”

Kaplan continued, “The commercial ecosystem is moving fast, and EverPass sits at the center of it. Our platform gives businesses one place and one partner for premium sports, backed by a growing slate of marquee events. Events like this are meant to be experienced together, and that shared atmosphere is what sets the commercial market apart. We are proud to work with MVP and Netflix to deliver this event to audiences nationwide.”

Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day will be headlined by boxing’s biggest disruptor, international superstar and WBA #14-ranked cruiserweight Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (12-1, 7 KOs) and two-time unified WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight world champion, Olympic gold medalist and knockout machine Anthony “AJ” Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs). The matchup unites Paul, the sport’s most-watched fighter, whose showmanship has redefined modern boxing and shattered records at every turn, with Joshua, one of boxing’s most accomplished, respected, and feared punchers, a global icon who has headlined sold-out stadiums across the UK and beyond. The event marks Paul’s second live event on Netflix in just over a year, following his record-breaking victory over Mike Tyson in November 2024. In the co-main event of Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day, MVP’s undisputed super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) will make a unified WBA, WBO, and IBF world title defense at 130lbs against Canada’s #2 IBF, #3 WBO and WBA contender Leila Beaudoin (13-1, 2 KOs). Tickets for Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com. The event will also feature MVP’s exclusive VIP experiences, including the MVP Owner’s Experience.

Additional EverPass sports offerings include Netflix’s exclusive NFL 2025 Christmas Day games, NFL Sunday Ticket, Peacock Sports Pass (Premier League, Big Ten football and basketball), UEFA Champions League (Paramount+) and more. To learn more about how EverPass can bring premium live sports to your business, visit https://everpass.com/.

About EverPass Media

EverPass Media is a premier streaming platform dedicated to commercial businesses, that aggregates, distributes and enables streaming of live sports and entertainment content, and offers a wide array of consumer engagement and performance marketing tools for bars, restaurants, hotels and other commercial venues. Launched initially as the exclusive distributor of NFL Sunday Ticket to commercial establishments in the United States, EverPass partners with rightsholders, distribution partners and business owners to unlock greater access to premium live events and drive business growth. EverPass was founded in 2023 in partnership with RedBird Capital Partners and 32 Equity, the strategic investment arm of the National Football League. TKO Group Holdings, parent company of UFC and WWE, joined as an investor in 2024.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last seven global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Chavez Jr. match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano, in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of the Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. MVP followed that up by Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3 in July 2024, the first all-women’s boxing card to be featured on Netflix. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

Material Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions Used with permission

BREAKING: Benn Named Number One Welterweight Contender By WBC

2025-12-02T06:07:22.685-08:00

It was announced earlier today by the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand that Conor Benn, who recently scored a twelve round unanimous decision in his rematch with former two-division world champion Chris Eubank Jr. on November 15th in a bout held in the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division, has been named the new WBC number one contender in the 147lb. Welterweight division. This announcement puts Benn as a replacement for previous number one contender and Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao, who fought to a draw in July of this year with current WBC World Welterweight champion Mario Barrios.

Barrios is rumored to be nearing a title defense early in 2026 against Welterweight contender Ryan Garcia, which has not been officially announced as of this writing. As for Manny Pacquiao, his next move as he intends to continue his comeback in 2026 is uncertain as of this writing. We will keep readers updated on developments as they are made available. Stay tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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Cruz-Roach Preview

2025-12-01T17:00:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 6th, the Boxing world will focus on the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX for a fight, which in all likelihood will have repercussions in the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division heading into 2026 and to be specific, with regard to the World Boxing Council (WBC) Jr. Welterweight ratings. This observer is referring to the battle between top contenders Isaac Cruz and Lamont Roach, a fight that will headline a pay-per-view card promoted under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner and streamed in the United States by Prime Video. What makes this an intriguing battle beyond an interesting clash of styles, which alone should draw interest amongst Boxing aficionados is the stakes of this encounter have potentially increased since the time the bout was announced.

First we have the clash of styles between a come forward pressure fighter in Cruz that tries to break his opponents down gradually in the mold of a Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., in that often from the opening bell, he comes forward and tries to apply constant pressure and back his opponent up with a swarming attack to the body and head. In thirty-two professional bouts, Cruz, who will walk into this fight holding an interim championship designation in the WBC Jr. Welterweight ratings, has a record of 28-3-1, with 18 Knockouts.

Standing across the ring from him on December 6th will be Lamont Roach. Roach, a former longtime top contender in the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division, who briefly held a similar interim designation in the WBA’s rankings in that weight class, is a well-rounded boxer/puncher that can do a little of everything, who will enter the fight with a record of 25-1-2, with 10 Knockouts. Despite the contrast in styles, both fighters share a commonality. Both have previously found themselves in decisions that many feel should have gone their way against the same fighter in Gervonta Davis. Some may recall Cruz putting forth a spirited effort against Davis four years and one day from where this fight will take place against Roach, in December 2021. A fight where many believed he deserved the decision based on the pressure and body work he inflicted on Davis over the course of the fight, but ended up losing a close twelve round unanimous decision.

More recently, Roach found himself on what many considered to be the wrong end of a decision against Davis in March of this year where he appeared to not have what should have been credited as a knockdown in his favor in the ninth round where Davis took a knee and had one of his cornermen wipe his face with a towel before continuing on. This blown call by Referee Steve Willis by not ruling a knockdown against Davis, as should have been the case when a fighter takes a knee for any reason outside of after suffering an illegal blow, is what many point to in resulting in Roach getting a twelve round majority draw as opposed to a victory that many observers including this one, felt he deserved. Obstacles toward a rematch with Davis, coupled with the latter’s choosing to sign to participate in an exhibition with Jake Paul, before ultimately being removed from that endeavor due to accusations of domestic violence against him, have resulted in Roach now facing Cruz.

What this fight comes down to in my eyes is virtually the same question that is asked of all Isaac Cruz opponents. Can Roach find a way to offset the pressure attack that Cruz will be trying to execute? While Cruz is not known for punching power, his knockouts have come from breaking his opponents down and he tries to more or less pin himself onto an opponent's chest where he not only cuts the ring off, but makes it extremely difficult for that fighter to get any breathing room where they can move, let alone find a consistent rhythm.

Although this has proven to be a difficult task to combat for many opponents, Lamont Roach does have good lateral movement, the ability to use angles, and a good mix of hand speed and accuracy when it comes to counter punching. Whether or not he will be able to set traps for Cruz as he comes forward to set up counter punch opportunities and whether he can evade the pressure and body/head attack of Cruz for all twelve rounds remains to be seen.

The wrinkle that has emerged since this fight was announced that could potentially raise the stakes is while Cruz’ WBC Interim designation will be at stake in the fight, current WBC World Jr. Welterweight champion Subriel Matias, who has a scheduled title defense in January against Dalton Smith in New York, recently tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine during randomized testing conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) while in training for that title defense. As of this writing, the status of both that fight as well as Matias’ standing as WBC world champion in the Jr. Welterweight division is unknown.

The possibility certainly exists, however, that the WBC could strip Matias of the title per the testing results either before or shortly after the Cruz-Roach fight takes place, which would obviously either elevate this fight to a world title bout or create a situation where the winner of it will be named world champion and possibly be mandated to fight Dalton Smith in 2026 assuming that Matias would not be permitted to fight due to possible suspension both by the WBC as well as the Association of Boxing Commissions that has both state and international membership due to the failed test.

Either way one chooses to look at this situation, the stakes are high for both Cruz and Roach regardless of a world title is on the line here as regardless, the winner will be in a position for potential lucrative fights going into 2026 and even though world championships still mean something and will always hold value in the sport, the possibility for more lucrative paydays often man as much or more than the championships themselves. Which fighter will find himself in such a position remains to be seen.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

Cruz vs. Roach takes place on Saturday, December 6th at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX. The fight as well as its undercard can be seen in the United States on Prime Video Pay-Per-View beginning at 5:30 PM ET/2:30 PM PT with free preliminary bouts with the pay-per-view portion beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT for $79.95. To order this pay-per-view event download the Prime Video app on mobile, tablet, or connected streaming devices and smart TVs and find Premier Boxing Champions in the Sports section or click the following link : PBC: Cruz vs. Roach

(*Card And Start Times Subject To Change.”

(*Check your local listings and Prime Video for availability and pricing internationally.*)

For more information about Premier Boxing Champions please visit: www.PremierBoxingChampions.com

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Cruz-Roach PPV Card Now Available For Pre-Order On Prime Video

2025-12-01T03:32:22.403-08:00

The December 6th Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) pay-per-view card headlined by a a twelve round Jr. Welterweight bout between WBC Interim contender Isaac Cruz and Lamont Roach with Cruz’ Interim status in the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division will be at stake, is now available for pre-order on Prime Video for $79.95. To order this pay-per-view event download the Prime Video app on mobile, tablet or your streaming device or Smart TV of choice or click the following link. PBC: Cruz vs. Roach. We will have a preview of Cruz-Roach available here on The Boxing Truth® later this evening. Stay tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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ThunderDome 52 Results From Metro City Nightclub, Perth, Australia

2025-11-30T04:30:00.000-08:00

Credit: Mike O'Hara/Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: November 26, 2025 By Lewis Moss - Last night, (Friday, November 28th) DragonFire Promotions returned to the Metro City Night Club for their final event of the year.

The main event saw Lewis Clarke defeat Bilal Seidu to put himself in pole position for a shot at the State Cruiserweight Title.

The undercard saw Sherwyn Watkins claim championship gold, along with other exciting prospects.

Bilal Seidu vs Lewis Clarke II

In the main event of the evening, Lewis Clarke defeated Bilal Seidu in their highly anticipated rematch to win the Interim WA State Cruiserweight Championship.

Back in August, the two fought for the first time in what was said to be a Cruiserweight title eliminator.

Despite many believing Seidu had done enough to get the victory, it was Clarke who walked away with the controversial split decision.

Both men started off the fight on the front foot, eager to pick up the statement victory.

In the second round, Seidu landed a massive right hand that drew a loud reaction from the crowd. Seidu pushed for the finish, but Clarke managed to weather the storm.

Seidu kept up his momentum throughout the third and fourth rounds, backing Clarke onto the ropes and unloading flurries as he pressed the action.

Clarke rallied back and started the final round on the front foot. However, Seidu eventually pushed Clarke back into another exchange on the ropes.

The two men continued to trade shots before the final bell sounded.

Despite the crowd’s chants for Bilal Seidu, it was Lewis Clarke who was awarded another controversial split decision victory.

The win for Clarke sets him up for a fight with current champion Billy Quinncroft next year. A win would make the Aussie a two-division WA State titleholder, further cementing his rise through the ranks.

Binny Folan vs Sherwyn Watkins

In the Co Main Event, Sherwyn Watkins defeated Binny Folan to win the WA NITRO Super Middleweight Championship.

The fight started at a fast pace with the two men trading in the pocket.

Late in the second round, the momentum shifted in Watkins’ favour after he rocked Folan with a series of heavy shots, before unloading a flurry that forced the referee to issue a standing count.

Watkins continued his onslaught for the rest of the fight by constantly backing Folan against the ropes.

The fifth round saw both men bite down and trade once again. Watkins looked close to finishing the job, but Folan showed tremendous heart, battling back despite taking significant punishment.

When the final bell sounded, it was Watkins who was given the clear unanimous decision and the WA NITRO Super Middleweight Title.

Holly McMath vs Sarah Higginson

Holly McMath and Sarah Higginson fought to a split draw in their bout for the ANBF Australasian Flyweight Title.

The two women fought each other at the RAC Arena earlier in the year, with the fight being cut short after an accidental head clash rendered Higginson unable to continue.

This time fans finally got the competitive matchup they were hoping for, but once again there was no decisive winner.

The fight started off with Higginson trying to get on the inside, but McMath utilized her range well by keeping her opponent at the end of her jab.

Higginson found more success in the second and third rounds by upping the pressure and landing the cleaner shots. McMath began to regain momentum in the fourth and fifth as she settled back into her rhythm.

Higginson increased the tempo in the sixth round by connecting with multiple flush shots on her opponent to finish strong.

When the final bell sounded, many in attendance were unsure of who won the fight. The judges felt the same, ultimately scoring the bout a split draw to leave both fighters dissatisfied.

With inconclusive endings to both of their fights, a third bout between these two women seems inevitable.

Joel Lewis vs Sonny Manakane

Joel Lewis picked up his fourth stoppage victory in a row, as he knocked out Sonny Manakane in brutal fashion.

The win for Lewis marks his second under new trainer Angelo Hyder, as he continues his journey up the boxing ranks.

Manakane came out aggressively, pushing forward from the opening bell.

The Aussie stayed composed and stayed light on his feet while looking for counter-punching opportunities.

In the final seconds of the first round, Lewis connected with a hard right cross that sent Manakane to the canvas.

The Indonesian answered the count, but was met with one last flurry from Lewis that put him to the floor again, prompting the referee to stop the fight.

Sam Rennie vs Rivo Rengkung

After winning his first fight overseas, Sam Rennie returned to Perth and comfortably outclassed Rivo Rengkung

The fight opened at a measured pace, with Rennie setting the tone early by picking Rengkung apart behind sharp jabs and well-placed body shots.

Rengkung made several attempts to close the distance, but Rennie’s range control and footwork kept him a step ahead throughout.

Early into the third round, Rennie connected with a huge shot to the body that brought his opponent down to one knee. The Englishman tried to press for the finish, but Rengkung survived.

Rennie remained in control of the fight in the fourth and fifth rounds, resulting in a standing count in the final round.

When the final bell sounded, the Englishman walked away with the unanimous decision win.

The victory for Rennie marks his fifth victory of the year and with this momentum behind him, he is looking to make even more noise in 2026.

Owen Corrigan vs Liang Wang II

Owen Corrigan kept his undefeated record intact after defeating Liang Wang for the second time.

Corrigan set the tone early, applying pressure from the opening bell. Wang fired back, but the Irishman answered with sharp jabs and well-timed hooks to the body.

Momentum briefly shifted in the third round when Wang backed Corrigan onto the ropes and landed a series of heavy shots. Corrigan regrouped quickly, as he stunned Wang with a big cross in the fourth round that forced him backwards.

In the fifth round, Corrigan managed to land another right cross, but Wang continued to retaliate with shots of his own.

Despite Wang giving the Irishman some problems, Corrigan kept his composure and picked his moments throughout the bout.

While the fight remained competitive, Corrigan’s cleaner work and control was enough to secure a deserved unanimous decision win.

Full Fight Card Results

Lewis Clarke DEFEATED Bilal Seidu by Split Decision

Interim WA State Cruiserweight Title

Sherwyn Watkins DEFEATED Binny Folan by Unanimous Decision

WA NITRO Super Middleweight Title

Owen Corrigan DEFEATED Liang Wang by Unanimous Decision

Holly McMath vs Sarah Higginson ended in a Split Draw

ANBF Australasian Flyweight Title (vacant)

Michael Bazley DEFEATED Damien Johnson by Fourth Round KO

Alan Pond Cup 2025

Sam Rennie DEFEATED Rivo Rengkung by Unanimous Decision

Tanaka Saburi DEFEATED Joel Hogan by Unanimous Decision

Joel Lewis DEFEATED Sonny Manakane by First Round KO

Jaidyn Chin DEFEATED Rigor Angeles by Fourth Round TKO

Gareth Hilton DEFEATED Faturochman by First Round TKO

Youseff Radwan vs Joel Pinici ended in a Split Draw (Exhibition Fight)

Tyrone Lacey DEFEATED Mitchell Arnold by Majority Decision

Sherwyn Watkins Jr DEFEATED Harigan Sutton by Unanimous Decision (Exhibition Fight)

Harrison Kruenert DEFEATED Gerrie Camama by Unanimous Decision (Exhibition Fight)

Material Courtesy of: Lewis Moss/Photo Courtesy of Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

Belated Ring IV Thoughts

2025-11-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

The fourth event held under the Ring Magazine banner titled Ring IV, which was held at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on November 22nd was promoted as a night of champions. It is indeed true that the event featured four world championship fights that produced a variety that just about every type of Boxing fan is bound to have an opinion on. The most dominant performance of the evening in the view of this observer was the one put forth by WBC/WBO Jr. Bantamweight world champion Jesse Rodriguez, who defended his title against WBA number one contender and former IBF Jr. Bantamweight world champion Fernando Martinez.

After an opening round where Martinez seemed to narrowly get the better of the action and was able to land some hard punches particularly with his right hand, Rodriguez simply went to work. From the second round on, the champion put forth what can only be described as a “Masterclass" in displaying a full arsenal of Boxing skills. A display of lateral movement, defense, counter punching, and hand speed that Rodriguez frankly made his opponent, a world-class top contender and former world champion look outclassed to the point where what was going on in the ring looked more like a sparring session where a world champion was preparing for a fight rather than a defense ot a unified world championship. Although as high a compliment to Rodriguez skillset and standing in the sport as one of the top fighters currently active in Boxing, the one-sided combat may not have been appreciated for the dominant performance that it was. Perhaps a reason for that is it had the unenviable task of following a fight that will be discussed at the conclusion of this column that frankly stole the show and from an entertainment standpoint seemed to exhaust the crowd in attendance during the overnight hours in Saudi Arabia.

Nevertheless, Rodriguez’ performance was as good an illustration as any why so many, including yours truly regard him as the top fighter in the 115lb. Jr. Bantamweight division. Just as it appeared as though the champion was content to box his way to a wide unanimous decision victory, Rodriguez unleashed a brutal left hook to the jaw that sent Martinez down on his back for the ten count on the canvas in the tenth round. The fight was over. For the champion, his sixteenth knockout in twenty three professional fights also signaled the eighth successful title defense for Rodriguez. Simply put, it was as close to a flawless performance as one could draw up. If there is one criticism one might have it could be that Rodriguez waited a little longer than perhaps he should have to end the fight as it became apparent after six rounds that the contest had been decided and Fernando Martinez, though very “Game” was simply outclassed by a fighter that will likely be a Hall of Famer when all is said and done.

Perhaps one of the most anticipated fights on the card took place in the 147lb. Welterweight division as undefeated WBO world champion Brian Norman Jr. defended his title against unbeaten former two-division world champion Devin Haney. An encounter that seemed rooted in legitimate bad blood between the fighters and their fathers, who were the respective trainers for their respective offspring. By now, most Boxing fans are familiar with the recent history of Devin Haney, a fighter who is one of the best currently in the entire sport, but one who recently suffered what was thought to be the first loss of his career, only to have his record restored due to his opponent Ryan Garcia testing positive for a banned substance. In his one outing since that controversy, prior to this fight earlier this year in Times Square in New York City, Haney did rebound and resumed his undefeated ways by scoring a twelve round unanimous decision over Juan Carlos Ramirez, but failed in terms of producing the type of crowd pleasing performance that fueled demand for a fight like this. Despite that fact, on this night Haney produced a career best performance.

After an uneventful opening round where neither fighter did much, to the surprise of many, Haney responded in the second round dropping the champion with a short, but crisp left hook, right hand combination to the jaw. Although Norman was able to get up from the knockdown, it was from that point in the fight that Haney seized full control of the combat, showcasing hand speed, lateral movement, and showing a willingness to stand in the pocket rather than solely relying on his legs to evade Norman. By doing this, Haney consistently beat Norman to the punch, seemed to stun him periodically, and simply got the better of most of the exchanges on the way to winning a convincing twelve round unanimous decision and with the victory, successfully becoming a world champion in a third weight division. A dominant performance that should also be viewed as a redemption of sorts for Haney after what he went through against Garcia, though he cannot and should not be blamed for the circumstances that followed that fight, which led to the restoration of his undefeated record. Whether Haney has a goal of eventually meeting Garcia again remains to be seen.

The official main event of Ring IV was a World Light-Heavyweight championship bout that saw undefeated two-division world champion David Benavidez defend his WBC crown against longtime top contender Anthony Yarde, who was making his third attempt at a world title. While frankly this had all the appearance of a fight designed to be a showcase for Benavidez, there were periods throughout this fight that were competitive. This was primarily due to Yarde attempting to limit the champion's ability to throw his punches in volume. David Benavidez has always had exceptionally quick hands for a fighter that stands 6’2 and has competed as a 168lb. Super-Middleweight and now as a 175lb. Light-Heavyweight and it is one aspect of his offense that truly makes him dangerous and a fighter fitting of his nickname “The Monster” because often, opponents are not used to facing and thus are unprepared for a fighter with such attributes in addition to the constant pressure Benavidez applies.

This was really no different in terms of the champion's approach, but what was a wrinkle to that attack at least for a period of time was Yarde attempted to punch with Benavidez rather than being strictly on defense and for a time did have some success in at least limiting Benavidez from being unable to unleash rapid fire bursts of combinations. Yarde was also able to periodically counter the champion. As has often happened in his fights, however, Benavidez was able to gradually increase his pace as the bout progressed and the challenger, though very “Game” found himself in a similar predicament as many previous Benavidez opponents, gradually succumbing to the pressure as the volume of punches increased and ultimately being dropped and stopped in the seventh round.

What was a bit of a surprise came after the fight when Benavidez revealed his intention to move up in weight to challenge current WBO Cruiserweight world champion Gilberto Ramirez, possibly during Cinco De Mayo weekend in 2026. Obviously, if that fight does indeed happen, it would be one of the biggest bouts that could be made as the two have sizable fan followings and are similar in style. It also will shine a light on the Cruiserweight division that has seemingly always struggled for consistent exposure and marquee attractions that generate significant interest.

While David Benavidez had the honor of headlining this card as the official main event, it would be a battle for the vacant WBO World Lightweight championship that would steal the show and frankly albeit unexpectedly became a Fight of the Year candidate. This observer is referring to the battle between undefeated top contenders Abdullah Mason and Sam Noakes.

Despite this being the third fight on the card where two unbeaten fighters were pitted against each other, it was expected by many that this would serve as a coronation of sorts for Mason in making a transition from highly touted prospect, turned contender, to a world champion. This perception was rooted in the fact that Mason is promoted by the Hall of Famer Bob Arum's Top Rank Inc., who until this past July had a long-term broadcast deal with United States sports cable, now streaming network ESPN, and thus from the very start of Mason's professional career, he was one of the fighters in Top Rank's stable that was able to benefit from such exposure.

While not necessarily being given a similar platform at least until his promoter the Hall of Famer Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions signed a global broadcast deal with digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN, which finally enabled the UK-based Warren to have a steady broadcast platform here in the United States as well as globally, Noakes did bring a similar record into the fight as Mason in addition to being a former British, Commonwealth, and European Lightweight champion. It did not take long for Noakes to show that this would not be a mere showcase for Mason.

From the opening bell Noakes forced the fight on Mason, forcing the combat to be fought in close. Despite suffering a deep gash in three as a result of an accidental clash of heads, Noakes consistent aggression and forcing a fight on the inside seemed to carry the ebb and flow for a significant portion of this fight.

Although this would be a different type of fight than had been the norm for him up to this point in his career, which had been highlighted by hand speed and dominant performances, this fight would serve as not only a test for Mason, but also one where he showed a willingness to fight fire with fire as he was more than willing to stand and trade with Noakes. Despite being forced to fight in a manner he had not been before, Mason responded to the test. Whenever Noakes would land something significant, particularly to the body, Mason would often respond almost immediately and this was also what would happen when the roles were reversed with Mason landing first and Noakes responding as quickly as he could.

This resulted in several rounds being closely fought, but where yours truly felt that Noakes seemed to be edging many of the rounds as I had him up five rounds to two through round seven. Despite the view of this observer, which was based largely on the fact that Noakes forced the fight to be fought on his terms, I did sense that it was likely a closer contest than a 5-2 score would give an impression through seven rounds. As I have often said over the many years I have covered the sport of Boxing, when it comes to close fights, it will often come down to what a judge prefers in their own criteria based on the criteria in which Boxing is scored, clean punching, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defense. What often also plays a role in the aforementioned criteria is one's perception. In this case, speaking only for myself, the perception I had was this was a close fight round by round, but after seven of the scheduled twelve rounds, I felt Noakes was doing enough to edge many of those rounds, based not only on aggression, but how he often brought the fight to Mason.

As the second half of this fight progressed, however, the pace understandably slowed, but the contest also began to narrow in my view with Mason taking control and landing hard body shots, which had Noakes hurt periodically, which was a bit of a reversal as earlier in the fight when he focused his own attack to Mason’s body, Noakes seemed to get the better of the action. As it was during those exchanges where Noakes seemed to have an advantage and had Mason hurt periodically, with the roles reversed, Noakes was able to respond as Mason did and the two fighters ultimately ended up splitting the final rounds on my scorecard resulting in an even score of six rounds to six or 114-114 in points.

After a tooth and nail battle that also seemed to exhaust the crowd in attendance in the overnight hours in Saudi Arabia, it would be Mason who would emerge victorious via a twelve round unanimous decision with one judge having him up nine rounds to three or 117-111 in points while the other two remaining judges having scores that appeared more accurate based on the action that occurred of seven rounds to five or 115-113 in points. Although I felt the fight was a draw, I can easily see a seven rounds to five margin in favor of either fighter. Simply put, it was that kind of fight and though Mason won it unanimously, it was close and competitive from start to finish.

Close and competitive to the degree that my immediate reaction that I shared on X (Formerly Twitter) along with my analysis of not only this fight, but of the entire card as I observed it in real time was “Rematch in 2026…” Not only did it prove to be a sleeper candidate for Fight of the Year honors, but it was the fight of the late night on this card to such a degree that not only did every fight that followed it have a tough act to follow, but it seemed to take the energy of the crowd along with it. While the latter element could be attributable to the fact that this card was held in the overnight hours in Saudi Arabia, which meant an early or late afternoon start time depending on where you live here in the United States, it is a fight definitely deserving of an encore and the promoters attached to this event as well as the broadcaster of it DAZN are likely smart enough to recognize that and so too should the WBO, whose World Lightweight title was on the line and is now subsequently held by Mason.

With one more card under the Ring Magazine banner to be held in Riyadh remaining for this year, which will be on December 27th while most of the world is observing the Christmas/end of year holidays, it is obviously too soon to think rematch by present day standards and both Mason and Noakes will likely need some time to recuperate from an exhausting battle they fought. It would seem logical, however, that a rematch would likely be a shoe-in for a future Ring Magazine card presumably either Ring VI or Ring VII depending on when those events are scheduled and how quickly the two fighters want to meet again. It would also seem logical that a rematch deserves to be a main event of such a card. The fight that would have led to a potential rematch did steal the show after all.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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Happy Thanksgiving 2025

2025-11-27T01:41:35.582-08:00

We here at The Boxing Truth® would like to wish our readers a Happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday. We would also like to remind readers that a column discussing the November 22 Ring IV event will be released here on the website on Friday November 28th during the evening hours here in the United States. Following this we will resume our regular schedule before pausing for the Christmas holidays beginning on December 22nd, which will conclude our 2025 schedule. Stay Tuned.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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Joel Lewis Talks Boxing Evolution Ahead Of Thunderdome 52 Bout This Friday In Perth, Australia

2025-11-26T00:44:57.312-08:00

Credit: Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: November 26, 2025 By Lewis Moss - This Friday, November 28th Dragon Fire Boxing Promotions returns to the Metro City Night Club for their final event of the year.

In the main event, Bilal Seidu and Lewis Clarke clash in a highly anticipated rematch for the Interim WA State Cruiserweight Championship.

Earlier in the card, “Lethal” Joel Lewis looks to extend his impressive winning streak when he fights Sonny Manakane, who is stepping in on short notice in place of the injured Yong Shuai Liuan.

Two weeks ago, it was announced that Lewis had signed a new long-term managerial deal with Dragon Fire Boxing, stating that he was excited to continue his development under the promotion.

“I'm excited for what the future beholds” Lewis said. “We've got a great team at Dragon Fire and that's what will take me to the top.

“The management and everything that I've got at Dragon Fire is going to be a real big factor towards my future and my boxing career.

“I know [DragonFire] will look after me in 2026 and I'm sure it'll be a massive year for me now that I’m entering my prime.

“I'll be getting a lot more wins under my belt and hopefully I'll be getting a lot more titles as well.”

Ever since debuting in 2023, Joel Lewis has solidified himself as one of the best fighters in WA, accumulating a record of 7-1 and a resume of highlight-reel finishes.

In June 2024, Lewis suffered his first defeat when he travelled to Bangkok to fight Mardi Sarbaz. The former State champion credits this moment as a massive learning experience in terms of his approach to the sport.

“[The Sarbaz fight] was a massive learning curve for me” Lewis told, “it was a good experience because it really changed the way I looked at my career.

“I was on a winning streak at that point, it just made me realise that I was still human and I still had a lot to work on.

“I just went back to the drawing board, got my boxing skills up and came back a lot stronger. In my recent fights, I've got some good stoppage wins, that first loss really switched me on.”

Since his first defeat, Joel Lewis has been on a tear in the regional scene. Currently riding a three-fight knockout streak, the Aussie’s most impressive performance came in his most recent fight against Fano Kori, as he dominated the veteran in every round before knocking him out in the dying seconds of the fight.

“I knew it was going to be a hard fight. Fano [Kori] is not an easy opponent.” Lewis said.

“He's got a lot of experience, a lot more than I had going into the fight. So I knew it was going to be a tough job, but I just stayed true to what I knew.”

The win over Kori was Lewis’ first fight since relocating to New South Wales to train under Angelo Hyder. Hyder is a highly respected figure in Australian boxing, having trained multiple world champions such as Danny Green and the Moloney Brothers.

Lewis credits Hyder with the improvements that he has made in the ring.

“[Training with Hyder] has been amazing, my boxing has come a long way,” Lewis revealed.

“My camp is what made the difference against Kori, I felt I was ready for that fight. I have a lot of power in my hands and my boxing has come a long way.

“I was just a good fighter, but [Hyder] has really turned me into a great boxer and that's what I'm going to show again come Friday night.”

Standing in Lewis’ way this time is Sonny Manakane, an international opponent who is stepping in on short notice to replace Yong Shuai Liuan whose injury forced him out of his scheduled fight with the Aussie.

“I've watched a little bit of his fights” Lewis told. “I think he'll come forward quite a bit and that will work well with my boxing style, because I like to draw my opponents into my big shots.”

With an exciting fight style and an aggressive demeanour, any fight that involves “Lethal” Joel Lewis is guaranteed to be a must see bout.

Material Courtesy of: Lewis Moss/Photo Courtesy of Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

Ring IV Post Feature And Schedule Updates

2025-11-25T00:09:51.536-08:00

We would like to let our readers know that a column discussing the recent Ring IV card which was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is currently in the works and will be released here on the website on Friday, November 28th. Following this we will resume our regular schedule before pausing for the Christmas holidays beginning on December 22nd, which will conclude our 2025 schedule.

While we are between rounds, any material that is sent in from promoters, networks and other entities in the sport of Boxing will be made available for readers as normal as it comes in. We will also update readers during the month of December as to what will be covered during the remaining schedule for 2025 as well as what will be covered on delay in conjunction with Beau Denison’s annual “Boxing Wishlist", which will kick off our 2026 schedule during the month of January. Stay tuned.

" And That's The Boxing Truth.”

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Joshua-Paul Press Conference Quotes

2025-11-22T03:19:53.117-08:00

Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui / Getty Images For Netflix

Press Release: November 22, 2025 By Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix - MIAMI, FL – November 21, 2025 –  Today at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, MVP’s international superstar and WBA #14-ranked cruiserweight Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (12-1, 7 KOs) and Matchroom’s two-time unified WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight world champion, Olympic gold medalist and knockout machine Anthony “AJ” Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) met face to face ahead of their upcoming fight. Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day will be a sanctioned, professional heavyweight bout contested over 8, three-minute rounds with 10oz gloves. The fight is set to take place on Friday, December 19, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, and will stream live globally, only on Netflix at no additional cost to its 300+ million members.

MVP and Netflix today announced the greatest MMA fighter of all time and Brazilian legend Anderson “The Spider” Silva (3-2, 2 KOs boxing, 34-11, 22 KOs MMA) makes his return to combat sports to face American MMA champion and combat sports icon Tyron Woodley (0-2 boxing, 19-7-1, 7 KOs MMA) will also join the main card of Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day. In the co-main event of Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day, MVP’s undisputed super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) will make a unified WBA, WBO, and IBF world title defense at 130lbs against Canada’s #2 IBF, #3 WBO and WBA contender Leila Beaudoin (13-1, 2 KOs). Baumgardner vs. Beaudoin will be contested over 12 three-minute rounds, equal to the men’s championship standard. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @Netflix, on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @Netflix, or on Netflix’s Tudum.

Visit the official Netflix page and click 'Remind Me' to ensure you're notified on Friday, December 19, when the action begins. Visit Tudum.com for up-to-date information about the event.

JAKE PAUL QUOTES

On why he’s fighting Anthony Joshua: I like to challenge myself. I like to take on the biggest, the best. I said anyone, anytime, any place - I truly mean that. No one ever thought that this would be possible, that we would be here when I first started boxing, and no one thinks I'm going to win. So join the list and be ready to be shocked.

On dealing with critics and the idea he’s in a lose-lose situation: I've never been knocked down or knocked out, even in sparring, but I'm in a sport where that happens. This is not a one-sided fight as people think. And I have power, I have the ability to put people to sleep. That's why I took this challenge - and I know it's crazy and all of that, but I'm excited. I'm genuinely excited. My team's excited and everyone believes in me, and that's all that matters.

On what makes him confident he can beat Joshua: He's one of the best heavyweights ever, but I believe that fighting a smaller man is oftentimes harder as a heavyweight because of the speed difference and because of the foot speed, because of the angles, because of the head being off of the center. And so all of that power is great, and he's knocked people out. I just have to avoid that one shot for eight rounds, and I believe that I can do that. So when I'm bouncing around the ring, jabbing, weaving, and doing all of these things, I know I can pick him apart and score points and make this a very, very big contest. People say, “Oh, I respect Jake Paul for getting in there.” No, respect me because I'm about to win.

On who has more pressure going into the fight: Anthony. Yeah, 1000%. This is something that's going to weigh on him, right? Because of what you said. I'm going in there, I can fight free. If he starts getting touched up and losing rounds, I think the cookie will crumble.

On the significance of fighting Joshua in just his 14th pro fight: We've been pushing boundaries, and that's what I'm really here is to be a beacon for kids out there to take inspiration from. That's one of the biggest things and goals I have in my life, is to show people what the power of self-belief, manifestation, hard work, discipline, and where it can take you, and to take risks…..I'm here to inspire kids and do things differently, and be a disruptor.

On his official prediction for the fight: Official prediction: I think a fourth or fifth round knockout by me. Damn. There it is.

ANTHONY JOSHUA QUOTES

On how the Jake Paul fight came together and his reaction to it: It's great. I think it's massive. It's colossal. It's making big news. We're bringing marketability together with ability. Those two worlds collide. You've got Jake Paul versus Anthony Joshua, and we're here in Miami. We're bringing Europe, Africa, Asia, and Nigeria, the whole world together to watch this show on Netflix; it's going to be phenomenal. And that's how we ended up here. Basically, two guys that just want to put on a good show.

On critics saying this fight could stain his legacy: I just focus on people that believe in me, that are supporting me, and that's it, if I'm honest. So I ain't got nothing to say to those people because they don't even come into my psyche.

On what he sees when he looks at Jake Paul: Talent focus, good team - nothing negative. He's here to do his job. I could sit up here and try and address all the things that Jake doesn't do good, but I'm fighting the Jake that's going to do everything good on December 19th. So let me focus on that. He's a good person, does his thing, great team around him, puts in the work, and that's why he's sitting here now. Anyone out there in the world that works harder than the next person deserves to be a frontrunner, and he's a frontrunner in the boxing game right now.

On changing trainers for this fight: I won't be trained by Ben Davidson. I said that London's a bit distracting for me, so I was invited to train with Team Usyk. We've been doing some good training out in Spain, and I think he's [Oleksander Usyk] one of the best in the world. And it's not all down to him; it's also down to his team that surrounds him. So I linked up with them and [I’m] getting insight into how someone who's achieved so much. It's been phenomenal, man. It's been a great experience, and it's very challenging.

On how seriously he’s taking Jake Paul: He's been professional now, what, four years? Five, I do believe, right? Five years. So after three years, I was the underdog and no one believed in me - I came up fighting the best in the world. You can't underestimate anyone.

On what he’ll bring to the fight: I'm going to bring him to another school of boxing that I don't think he's been exposed to yet. So there's a few tricks I have up my sleeve to show Jake on December 19th.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last seven global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Chavez Jr. match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano, in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. MVP followed that up by Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3 in July 2024 the first all-women’s boxing card to be featured on Netflix. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About Netflix

Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services, with over 300 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films, live events and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause, and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

Material Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions and Netflix/ Photo Courtesy of: Eva Marie Uzcategui / Getty Images for Netflix Used with permission.

Gloves Off: Pitbull-Roach Now Streaming On Prime Video

2025-11-21T23:50:24.182-08:00

Credit: Prime Video

Press Release: November 22, 2025 By Prime Video - NEW YORK—November 21, 2025—Today, Prime Video announced Gloves Off: Pitbull vs Roach, the latest installment of its compelling, all-access docuseries. Debuting Saturday, November 22 on Prime Video, this edition explores the journey of two warriors whose willingness to accept major challenges have earned them worldwide respect in The Fight Game. Former 140-pound champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and reigning WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach go toe-to-toe for the Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title on Saturday, December 6, headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX.

As the 2025 boxing season enters its final month, this fight is pivotal for both men. Mexico City native "Pitbull" Cruz (28-3-1, 18 KOs) became world champion in March 2024, claiming the WBA Super Lightweight title. Recently, Cruz rebounded from a loss to Jose Valenzuela by defeating countryman Angel Fierro before earning a unanimous decision over Omar Salcido in July.

Washington D.C.'s Roach (25-1-2, 10 KOs) captured his WBA Super Featherweight World Championship in November 2023 by dethroning Hector Luis Garcia. He defended his belt in June 2024, dominating previously unbeaten Feargal McCrory for an eighth-round TKO. Earlier this year, he moved up in weight to challenge undefeated WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis, earning a controversial majority draw in New York City.

Narrated by Barry Pepper, the series takes fans beyond the ring, blending footage of fighters' lives, families, and training, as excitement builds for this prime-time showcase in a city with a long history of hosting memorable prizefights.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Prime Video Used with permission.

Mini Preview: Ring IV

2025-11-21T00:28:39.445-08:00

On Saturday, November 22nd, the Boxing world will set its sights on Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where a card held under the Ring Magazine banner called Ring IV will take place and can be seen worldwide on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN either as a standalone pay-per-view offering or included in the recently launched DAZN Ultimate subscription plan. The card will feature four world title bouts and in a bit of a departure from how pre-fight content is usually penned by yours truly here on The Boxing Truth®️, given the depth of the card, this will be a micro preview of sorts with a brief look at each world title bout, all four fights will be scheduled for twelve rounds.

Main Event: WBC World Light-Heavyweight championship David Benavidez defending against Anthony Yarde

The top of the bill will see unbeaten two-division world champion David Benavidez defending his Light-Heavyweight world title against multi-time world title challenger Anthony Yarde. This will mark Benavidez’ first defense of the WBC world championship in the 175lb. Light-Heavyweight division following previous undisputed world champion Dmitry Bivol vacated the title earlier this year due to recovering from injuries following two fights with former champion Artur Beterbiev, whom he traded wins of the undisputed championship.

In his last fight, Benavidez overcame a knockdown in the eleventh round to score a convincing twelve round unanimous decision over top contender David Morrell in February of this year. This was a brief moment of vulnerability for Benavidez in that he has consistently dominated most of his previous opponents. While he did mostly defeat Morrell clearly, that brief knockdown may have given some an impression that he can be caught, especially in the latter stages of a fight.

In Anthony Yarde, Benavidez will face an opponent that has had two previous attempts at a world title. With a record of 27-3, with 24 Knockouts, Yarde does have an 88% career knockout percentage to the champion's 30-0, with 24 Knockouts with an 80% career knockout percentage.

What these statistics indicate is the better than average possibility that this fight will not go the distance. A potential red flag for the challenger is that he has been stopped in his two previous world title challenges and the question going into this fight will be whether he can withstand the volume punching and pressure of Benavidez, particularly since those two stoppage losses.

WBO World Welterweight championship Brian Norman Jr. defends his world title against unbeaten former two-division world champion Devin Haney

Undefeated Brian Norman Jr. will be making the third defense of his WBO world title against the undefeated Devin Haney, who will be attempting to win a world title in a third weight class after previously being an undisputed world champion in the 135lb. Lightweight division and a world champion in the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division.Norman, who became a world champion by being elevated from being a mandatory challenger to world champion following former Undisputed Welterweight world champion Terence Crawford vacating all his championships and moving out of the Welterweight division. Since that time the champion, who will enter this title defense with a record of 28-0, with 22 Knockouts, will also enter on a three fight knockout streak.

Although Norman has shown in recent fights, the type of fight ending punching power that turns heads and generates buzz, most would concede that this is the most significant test of his career thus far in the former two-division world champion Devin Haney. Haney, who will enter with a record of 32-0, with 15 Knockouts is known as a well-balanced, elusive boxer/puncher that can do a little of everything. Haney, however, despite his aforementioned accomplishments, is on a bit of a redemption tour following his fight with Ryan Garcia in April 2023. In that fight, Haney was dominated and knocked down multiple times before initially losing a twelve round unanimous decision. The discrepancy that led to Haney’s unbeaten record being restored to unbeaten came when Garcia tested positive for a banned substance following the fight resulting in his suspension and the outcome being changed to a no contest. In his last outing, Haney scored a dreadful twelve round unanimous decision over Juan Carlos Ramirez in Times Square in New York City in May this year.

While Haney did what he had to do in that fight, a question here will be whether or not a priority for Haney will be to try and be more entertaining for both fans and the promoter of this card Turki Al-Sheikh, chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, and owner of Ring Magazine, which this card is being promoted under. It can be difficult to balance doing what you need to do to succeed and being a type of entertaining fighter that not only draws the eyes of fans to your fights, but also encourages promoters like Turki Al-Sheikh to continue to invest in you as a fighter.

Although the result of the fight against Garcia was expunged from his record and his unbeaten status restored, what happened in that fight, particularly Garcia’s approach and how Haney responded to both consistent pressure and power shots Garcia was able to land with success will likely play into Norman’s strategy as this fight approaches. The main objective for the champion will be to apply pressure on Haney from the outset and try to cut the ring off from him to minimize his movement and get in on the inside where he could do damage. It goes without saying that against a fighter of Haney’s skillset, elusiveness, hand speed, and counter punching ability, it is a task that can be easier said than done, but Norman must be cautious and tactical in his approach at all times. If he allows Haney to find a consistent rhythm for any significant period, the fight could get away from him in terms of points quickly.

Vacant WBO World Lightweight championship Abdullah Mason faces Sam Noakes

In the second of three undefeated versus undefeated encounters on this card, the number one and number two contenders in the World Boxing Organization’s Lightweight ratings. Abdullah Mason and Sam Noakes will meet for the vacant WBO World Lightweight championship previously held by Keyshawn Davis.

While both are unbeaten and both have career knockout percentages of nearly 90%, the perception of at least some is that this will be a showcase and a coronation for Mason. The basis of this perception is Mason, who will enter with a record of 19-0, with 17 Knockouts,has had a quick rise up the ladder and arguably has done so with the benefit of the spotlight of ESPN as a platform that his promoter, the Hall of Famer Bob Arum’s Top Rank Inc. recently concluded an eight year broadcast pact. While his promoter continues to look for a new platform for the future, this fight obviously represents the opportunity for Mason to go from fast rising prospect turned contender to world champion.

Despite the perception many have going into this fight, Sam Noakes does have a similar resume as Mason. Noakes, who will enter this encounter with a record of 17-0, with 15 Knockouts, is a former British, Commonwealth, and comes into this fight as the current European Lightweight champion.

Although much of the focus going into this bout is focused on Mason, the credentials alone along with the similar resume in comparison that Noakes brings with him to a fight of this magnitude should indicate to any objective observer, at least on paper, before a single punch is thrown between these two fighters, this seems to be a much more even fight than the perceptions of some would suggest. Given the similarity between the two in being able to score quick knockouts, what interests this observer will be who will take the initiative early on and try to press the issue and what will also be interesting here will be if one or both fighters will be forced to adjust their approach as the fight progresses. While much like the main event, the career knockout percentages of these two fighters would suggest a better than average possibility that this does not go the distance, both fighters are likely aware of what the other can do and as such, there may be a healthy respect between the two that could result in a tactical albeit hesitant approach for both at least early in the fight. When you have two “Knockout Artists” facing each other, it goes without saying truly anything can happen and one should not look away during this fight.

WBC/WBO World Jr. Bantamweight world championship Jesse Rodriguez defends his unified crown against WBA number one contender Fernando Martinez

Rounding out the undefeated versus undefeated bouts on this card Jesse Rodriguez will make the eighth defense of his crown against current WBA number one contender and former IBF World Jr. Bantamweight world champion Fernando Martinez. While this represents another chapter in the career of Jesse Rodriguez as one of the sport’s rising stars, particularly being a fighter that can shine a spotlight on some of the lightest weight classes here in the United States, anyone who is knowledgeable of the lightest divisions Boxing has to offer, knows that the competition level is consistently high and there is no shortage of world-class opposition.

This is a case where Rodriguez, who will enter this title defense with a record of 22-0, with 15 Knockouts, will have more experience than his challenger Fernando Martinez, who comes in with a record of 18-0, with 9 Knockouts. While Martinez briefly held the IBF world title in this division, he currently holds an Interim/Regular championship designation in the WBA Jr. Bantamweight ratings. What this will likely be at least on paper is an encounter between two boxer/punchers where the perception is likely that the champion has an advantage when it comes to punching power. It will be up to the Argentine Martinez to show that this will not merely be regarded as a chapter in the story of a potential future Hall of Fame career of Rodriguez. How the challenger can accomplish that remains to be seen, but seeing as Rodriguez is coming off two straight knockout wins, the approach could be to try and dictate the tempo of combat where the intent is to try and keep the champion from finding a consistent rhythm. Rodriguez has quick hands and tends to throw punches in combination so it is a difficult task for Martinez to attempt to tackle, but Martinez has shown previously to be a very capable boxer, so it is a task he is likely looking forward to.

Ultimately, Ring IV like the previous three events held under the Ring Magazine banner and the upcoming Ring V event in December offers a little of everything for just about any Boxing fan. What fight or fights end up standing out when all is said and done remains to be seen.

“And That's The Boxing Truth.”

Ring IV takes place on Saturday, November 22nd at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The entire card can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN as either a standalone pay-per-view offering for $59.99 or included with the recently introduced DAZN Ultimate subscription plan for $44.99 per month or $449 per year. The card will begin at 3PM ET/12PM PT.(*North American Prices and Start Times Only*)

(*Card and Start Times Subject To Change.*)

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times and pricing in your area, to order this event or to learn about the DAZN Ultimate subscription plan please visit: www.DAZN.com.

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BKB And Bally's Announce Launch Of BKB Bally's Fight Night Series

2025-11-20T11:31:20.917-08:00

Credit: BKB Bareknuckle Boxing

Press Release: November 20, 2025 By BKB Bareknuckle Boxing - Miami, FL, 19th November 2025 – Bally’s Corporation and BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing today (November 18th) unveiled Bally’s Fightnight by BKB, a fully integrated 360 partnership that unites Bally’s proprietary sensor technology, Bally’s owned casino venues, and exclusive broadcast distribution into a single, seamless combat entertainment ecosystem. The franchise debuts Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, where advanced sensors embedded in fighter wrist wraps will capture punch volume, punch type, and force of impact in real time, delivering a gamified experience to fans both inside the arena and across Bally’s digital platforms, including the Bally Sports Live apps and Stadium free ad-supported TV (FAST) channel.

The concept originated in 2021 through a pilot led by BKB CEO David Tetreault and Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim under Oscar De La Hoya’s KO Entertainment. Now realized as a complete 360 activation, the partnership leverages bare knuckle boxing’s glove-free format - the cleanest and most measurable striking discipline in combat sports - as the ideal proving ground for Bally’s proprietary sensor system. Every punch becomes quantifiable data, instantly transforming elite bouts into interactive, data-driven spectacles.

David Tetreault, CEO of BKB Bare Knuckle, said: “Four years ago Soo Kim and I dreamed of building the most data-backed combat sport on earth. Today, with Bally’s, that dream becomes Bally’s Fightnight by BKB. Bare knuckles give us the cleanest data possible; Bally’s gives us the platform to make that data entertaining, interactive, and profitable for fans everywhere.”

The sensor platform powers an enhanced storytelling experience with data-enriched broadcast graphics and immersive second-screen experience accessible via the Bally Sports Live mobile apps and Stadium FAST channel. Fans will receive live punch metrics including volume, velocity, and impact force; real-time leaderboards; predictive betting; fantasy-style scoring; heat maps; punch-type breakdowns; and fighter power rankings. The same data stream enhances the in-venue atmosphere through integrated arena displays, creating a unified experience from ringside to remote viewing.

Soo Kim, Chairman of Bally’s, said: “Bally’s has always been about creating experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Combining Bare Knuckle Boxing’s raw intensity with proprietary sensor technology and then scaling it globally, including our newly acquired properties in the UK and Australia, is exactly why we’ve built the Bally’s ecosystem the way we have.”

Jon Lin, SVP and GM of Bally’s Media, said: “For the first time ever, fans in our venues and watching at home will share the exact same live data feed; punch speed, force, volume, everything. It’s like having a second screen built into the fight itself. This is the most immersive combat sports broadcast we’ve ever produced.”

The partnership launches with a multi-event schedule staged exclusively inside Bally’s-owned properties, beginning with Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi and expanding to additional Bally’s destinations nationwide. All production, distribution, and fan engagement flow through Bally’s integrated digital ecosystem, ensuring seamless access for in-venue and remote audiences alike.

The debut card, Bally’s Fightnight by BKB: Biloxi, takes place on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Biloxi, Mississippi, with doors opening at 6:00 PM CT and first bell at 7:00 PM CT. The event will be broadcast exclusively on the Bally Sports Live app and Stadium channel. Tickets are available now at bkbtickets.com/ballysbiloxi. Fighter lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.

About Bally’s Corporation

Bally’s (NYSE: BALY) is a fast-growing national brand with 20 casinos internationally including 1 retail casino in Newcastle, UK, 11 states across the US, along with a golf course in New York and a horse racetrack in Colorado and holds OSB licenses in 13 jurisdictions in North America. It also owns Bally Bet, a first-in-class sports betting platform, Bally Casino, a growing iCasino platform, Bally International Interactive division (formerly Gamesys Group), a leading global interactive gaming operator, and a significant economic stake in Intralot S.A. (ATSE: INLOT), a global lottery management and services business. As a global, entertainment-focused, omni-channel leader in retail and online gaming, Bally’s serves over 11 million domestic and 20 million international customers through its loyalty programs.

With 11,500 employees, its casino operations include approximately 17,700 slot machines, 630 table games, and 3,950 hotel rooms. Bally’s also has rights to developable land in Las Vegas at the site of the former Tropicana Las Vegas.

About BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing

Material and Photo Courtesy of:BKB Bareknuckle Boxing Used with permission.

ThunderDome 52 Card Preview:

2025-11-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Press Release: November 18, 2025 By Lewis Moss -

Credit:Mike O'Hara/Dragon Fire Boxing

On November 28, Dragonfire Boxing makes its return to Metro City Night Club for their final event of the year.

The main event features a highly anticipated rematch between Bilal Seidu and Lewis Clarke for the Interim WA State Cruiserweight Title.

The undercard also features a whopping fifteen fights, including a mix of exciting matchups and rising prospects from the Perth regional scene.

Bilal Seidu vs Lewis Clarke

Thunderdome 52 will be headlined by the rematch between Bilal Seidu and Lewis Clarke.

Going into their first encounter in August, Clarke was a former heavyweight who dropped to cruiserweight to chase a second state championship. Seidu, looked to get himself back into contention after losing a state title fight earlier in the year.

Despite many thinking that Seidu had done enough to earn the victory, it was Clarke who was awarded the controversial split decision, sparking calls for a second meeting.

With current WA State Cruiserweight Champion Billy Quinncroft unavailable, Promoter Tony Tolj announced that the rematch will be for the interim title, adding significant stakes.

Fans can expect an intense showdown as the pair settle the score once and for all.

Binny Folan vs Sherwyn Watkins

In the co-main event, Binny Folan looks to continue his undefeated streak as he faces the returning Sherwyn Watkins for the WA NITRO Super Middleweight Title.

After six years out of the ring, Ireland’s Folan made his comeback in 2025, scoring two victories over Rusty Oates. For his third fight back, he sets his sights on championship gold against Watkins.

Watkins, who holds a 6-3-1 record, returns for the first time in seven years as he aims to halt Folan’s momentum.

With both men seeking to re-establish themselves in the Perth boxing scene, the stakes are very high.

Holly McMath vs Sarah Higginson II

The card also features a rematch between Holly McMath and Sarah Higginson for the ANBF Australasian Flyweight Title.

Earlier this year, the pair met for the first time at the RAC Arena in an action packed contest.

The fight was cut short after an accidental head clash left Higginson unable to continue, resulting in a technical decision win for McMath.

On November 28, they meet again in hopes of scoring a decisive victory and settling unfinished business.

Joel Lewis vs Sonny Manakane

Joel Lewis aims to extend his impressive winning streak when he faces international opponent Sonny Manakane.

Lewis has been on fire since suffering his first defeat overseas in June 2024, racking up three consecutive stoppage victories.

His latest win was an emphatic finish against Fano Kori, as he dominated the veteran before closing the show in the dying seconds of the fight.

Standing in the Perth fighter’s way this time is Yong Shuai Liuan, an international opponent who looks to stop the momentum of the Aussie.

Lewis’ fight against Liuan will be his second since relocating to the Gold Coast to train under Angelo Hyder, an experienced coach who has multiple world champions to his name including Danny Green and the Moloney brothers.

Sam Rennie vs Sunardi Gamboa

The Isle of Man’s Sam Rennie takes on Sunardi Gamboa in another intriguing matchup.

Rennie is coming off his first fight outside Australia, where he scored a lopsided decision win in Phuket over Pyae Thein Oo back in October.

The WBC Silver Australasian Champion now returns to Perth to face Sunardi Gamboa, a seasoned competitor who has shared the ring with former WBA Featherweight world title challenger Sam Goodman.

The fight looks to be a step up in competition for Rennie as he continues his journey up the boxing ladder.

Owen Corrigan vs Liang Wang II

Owen Corrigan makes his return to the ring in a rematch with Liang Wang.

Since 2024, Ireland’s ‘Bomber’ has made a statement as a rising force holding an undefeated 3-0 record. Liang Wang however, remains the only opponent he hasn’t been able to stop inside the distance.

In their first fight, Corrigan dominated throughout, but Wang showed tremendous resilience to hear the final bell.

This time, The Irishman hopes to secure the knockout he narrowly missed.

Damien Johnson vs Michael Bazley

Damien Johnson and Michael Bazley will fight each other for the fifth annual Alan Pond Cup.

Bazley will be making his professional debut against Johnson, who is stepping in on two weeks notice to replace the injured Ryan Willams.

Full Fight Card Line Up

Bilal Seidu vs Lewis Clarke

5 rounds - Interim WA State Cruiserweight Title

Binny Folan vs Sherwyn Watkins

5 × 2 rounds - WA NITRO Super Middleweight Title

Holly McMath vs Sarah Higginson

6 × 2 rounds - ANBF Australasian Flyweight Title (vacant)

Joel Lewis vs Yong Shuai Liuan

6 rounds

Owen Corrigan vs Liang Wang

4 rounds

Sam Rennie vs Sunardi Gamboa

4 rounds

Jaidyn Chin vs Rigor Angeles

4 rounds

Joel Hogan vs Tanaka Saburi

4 rounds

Damien Johnson vs Michael Bazley (Debut)

4 rounds - Alan Pond Cup 2025

Alan Amin (Debut) vs Alex Muster

4 rounds

Gareth Hilton vs Faturochman

4 rounds

Tyrone Lacey (Debut) vs Mitchell Arnold

4 rounds

Youseff Radawan vs Joel Pinci

4 rounds

Harigan Sutton vs Sherwyn Watkins Jr

4 rounds

Harrison Kruenert vs Gerrie Camama

4 rounds

Material Courtesy of Lewis Moss/Photo Courtesy of: Mike O'Hara/Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.