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Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has stated that the British-Nigeria is ready to face Francis Ngannou on December 23.

The Cameroonian-French professional mixed martial artist made his professional boxing debut last Sunday, facing Tyson Fury in a heavyweight showdown in Saudi Arabia.

The ‘Gypsy King’ was spared what would have been one of the biggest upsets of all time after the night ended in a highly unconvincing split decision win over the 37-year-old former UFC heavyweight champion.

Ngannou’s third-round knockdown of Fury, who was lacklustre throughout, sent shock waves around the world.

Hearn disclosed to the BBC that he had been in touch with Ngannou’s representatives, saying “All of a sudden that fight between two giants, they’re carved out of stone, it becomes a massive fight. We’re definitely willing to consider it.”

Even though Ngannou wasn’t able to capitalise and came out on the wrong end of a close split decision, he has the moral victory and is now seen as a legitimate contender at the world level.

Joshua is still in a rebuilding phase of his career after back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022. That left Joshua without any of his belts and has come back with a steady points win over American Jermaine Franklyn in April followed by a seventh-round knockout victory over Robert Helenius in August.

Speaking to Boxing News on Friday, Hearn was asked about whether his former two-time world champion would face Ngannou.

Anthony Joshua

“We’d take that fight on December 23, no problem.”

He then explained Joshua is already looking to fight again before the end of the year.

“We’re looking at that date for Joshua anyway. Maybe I’ll reach out to them and say listen, if you’re looking for an opponent for Francis Ngannou, AJ’s ready, on December 23, no problem at all. I’d like more time promotionally to make that fight what it is, one of the biggest fights out there, but no problem.”

At this point, it would be a fight that generates plenty of interest as Joshua makes his way back into the world title contention.

In a recent conversation with ES News, the managers of Gervonta Davis and Teofimo Lopez entertained the idea of a potential title fight between ‘Tank’ and ‘The Takeover.’ As per them, it will be a wonderful and certainly one of the biggest events in the sport. While Clavin Ford, Davis’ manager-cum-trainer liked the suggestion of facing Lopez at 140 lbs, David McWater, the manager of ‘The Takeover’ hoped the fight would definitely happen one day.

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While none delivered a date, both parties kept the prospect of a fight alive. In this context, following their statements, a video of Lopez sparring with Davis emerged. From the video, a critic can tell that Davis is ahead of Lopez. Well, here is what happened.

Gervonta Davis drops the mouthpiece of Teofimo Lopez with a stunning uppercut

Gervonta-Davis

At the beginning of the video, a bare-bodied ‘Tank,’ is seen occupying the center of the ring. He then hits Lopez with a straight left hand followed by a left to the body and a right to the head. On the other hand, Lopez finds Davis against the ropes and hits the latter with a 1-2. The fact that Lopez can let his hands flow is on full display as he changes levels and rains combinations on Davis once he is cornered. However, one can also see that Davis protects himself well with his tall guard as ‘The Takeover’ barely lands his punches on ‘Tank.’

Meanwhile, Davis simultaneously demonstrates how effortlessly he pivots and closes in on the distance. Like his other fights we have seen, he makes an exhibition of explosiveness and accuracy. In addition, contrary to Lopez, ‘Tank’ actually lands a number of punches that he throws. Moreover, at one point, with a left uppercut ‘Tank’ drops the mouthpiece of Lopez. In this connection, amidst present talks about a potential fight at 140 lbs, let us take a close look at their physical attributes.

Physical attributes: Lopez vs. Davis

To make the fight happen at 140 lbs, Gervonta Davis will have to gain weight since he fights at 135 lbs. However, if the bout takes place, Lopez, who fights at 140 lbs, will have a reach advantage of 3cm. In addition, ‘The Takeover’ will be the bigger boxer in the ring. However, to what extent, he can use these advantages is a question. Given that sparring video, it seems Davis will overpower and outbox Teofimo.

Hopefully, Lopez will improve himself before facing ‘Tank.’ Likewise, ‘Tank’ will train accordingly to upset Lopez. Anyway, what do you think of the sparring match between the two? In your opinion, what will be the potential outcome of ‘The Takeover’ vs. ‘Tank’? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Oscar De La Hoyais no stranger to offering his insights, however, his recent perspective on the possible clash between Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford has raised eyebrows. The former boxing champion, now a prominent figure in promotion, holds reservations about the feasibility and significance of such a bout.

De La Hoya’s hesitation centers around the apparent lack of weight class alignment between the two contenders. According to his assessment, the proposed matchup seems to lack sporting merit, as it would require Crawford to ascend two divisions, gaining a considerable 14 pounds to meet Canelo in the ring. Despite his reservations, De La Hoya does not shy away from making a bold assertion: if this improbable bout were to materialize, he envisions a clear victor.

The boxing world has witnessed Crawford’s meteoric rise, underscored by his authoritative triumph over Errol Spence Jr. in the super welterweight division. Nicknamed “Bud,” Crawford’s dominance at 154 pounds has earned him widespread recognition as the division’s undisputed champion. This victory inevitably triggered speculation about his next opponent, inevitably leading to comparisons with the reigning monarch of the super middleweight category, Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez.

Terence Bud Crawford

Presently reigning supreme at 168 pounds, Canelo’s upcoming engagement against Jermell Charlo has only fueled the anticipation for potential matchups beyond. Speculation is rife about a future face-off between Canelo and Crawford, albeit complicated by the substantial weight difference between the two fighters.

An insightful analysis by De La Hoya

Drawing upon his intimate knowledge of both boxers, nurtured through his role as their promoter, De La Hoya paints a picture of improbable odds for this intriguing clash. Yet, his belief remains unshaken when it comes to predicting a winner. In a candid conversation with ESNews, De La Hoya emphasizes the underpinning truth of boxing: raw talent can often outshine sheer physicality.

De La Hoya’s analysis underscores Crawford’s multifaceted approach to the sport. Despite his size advantage, Crawford relies not on sheer power but on his impeccable boxing IQ. A shining example of his prowess was the masterful defeat he handed to Spence Jr., a feat that left the boxing world in awe. This strategic brilliance, according to De La Hoya, resonates with the legacy of Bruce Lee, implying that Crawford possesses a level of sophistication akin to the legendary martial artist

Tyson Fury has been told his trilogy with Deontay Wilder is to blame for his poor performance against Francis Ngannou.

Heavyweight champion Fury won a controversial split decision against Ngannou last weekend in Saudi Arabia. The Brit was backed to breeze past Ngannou, who was making his boxing debut, to set up an undisputed world title fight against Oleksandr Usyk on December 23, but Fury was put down and had to pick himself up off the canvas to secure the win.

Wilder’s coach Malik Scott believes Fury’s previous fights against the American have zapped the best years out of him. Fury fought to a split draw against Wilder in 2018, but knocked him out in their rematch two years later and trilogy fight in October 2021. “Even Fury believes the Deontay Wilde fights changed him,” Scott told FightHype.

Wilder’s coach Malik Scott believes Fury’s previous fights against the American have zapped the best years out of him. Fury fought to a split draw against Wilder in 2018, but knocked him out in their rematch two years later and trilogy fight in October 2021. “Even Fury believes the Deontay Wilde fights changed him,” Scott told FightHype.

“He’s 35 years young but to me Fury has put a lot of wear and tear on his body. Not just the Deontay fights, early on in his career he took damage in the first [Derek] Chisora fight, he was knocked down with [Steve] Cunningham. The gym, he’s always had high-quality sparring. He’s 35 but father time is undefeated.”

Fury was left with a black eye and grazed forehead after fighting Ngannou, with his unexpected battle scars delaying his undisputed fight against Usyk. The Ukrainian insisted he would be ready to fight in December but the fight has now been pushed back until Februrary.

 

Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury have signed to fight in the first undisputed heavyweight championship contest since the days of Lennox Lewis.

The shine of the historic fight was dulled slightly when Fury – a betting favourite – went the distance against Francis Ngannou, being dropped on the way by the man who was making his professional boxing debut.

Despite the underwhelming performance, Usyk, who had been watching at ringside, entered the ring post-fight to hype up what was next. Neither man seemed to be in the mood for marketing – a stark difference from Fury’s usually entertaining fight talk.

tyson fury and oleksandr usyk

Speaking on TNT Sports, Usyk addressed the feeble face-off.

It appears to be advice followed, as it was announced shortly after the fight that the previously-discussed December 23 date was off the table in favour of Fury recovering from the tense ten rounds.

The fight is instead targeted for February, and will have a contractual rematch clause likely to see it played out twice, although not for all four belts the second time around.

Ngannou then will have to wait for any rematch with Fury. He says it’s the one fight he wants above all others after contesting the split decision loss and the credibility of the three judges.

 

Francis Ngannou’s showing against Tyson Fury has opened the door to a number of high-profile matchups within boxing’s heavyweight division, including Anthony Joshua.

‘AJ’ has been one of Britain’s brightest stars over the past decade. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, has called for a matchup with Ngannou in the wake of his clash with Fury.

The former UFC champion made his professional debut against ‘The Gypsy King’ in Saudi Arabia last weekend, and many, including Hearn, dismissed the matchup prior to fight night.

Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou

Francis Ngannou was given little chance of causing an incredible upset. But, ‘The Predator’ was able to provide Tyson Fury with what he described as “his toughest fight in 10 years.”

Fury was awarded a split-decision win, much to the dismay of fans, who have shared their frustration with the result.

During a recent interview with Boxing Social, Eddie Hearn shared an update on a potential Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou clash and said:During a recent interview with Boxing Social, Eddie Hearn shared an update on a potential Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou clash

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez refutes claims that Gervonta Davis is the new face of boxing with just one fight under his belt. Canelo emphasized that a fighter needs to do more than that to earn the title of boxing’s face. In a virtual press conference, Canelo stated: “You need to do a lot of things. There are a lot of good fighters coming up, and one of them is Gervonta.” However, he reiterated that it takes more than one fight against Ryan Garcia to achieve that status.

Canelo explained what it takes to be the new face of boxing: “Fighting the best, over and over again, moving up and down divisions, being undisputed, doing what I’ve been doing my whole career.”

Alvarez added that he considers himself the best pound-for-pound fighter, citing his accomplishments in unifying all the belts in 11 months and fighting four times in 11 months.

Canelo expressed his liking for Gervonta Davis and his potential: “I like Gervonta Davis a lot.” However, he made it clear that Gervonta still has a long way to go before he can earn the title of boxing’s face. Canelo emphasized the importance of continuously fighting the best, and Gervonta needs to do more before he can achieve that status.

Gervonta Davis

One fight doesn’t make Tank Davis the new face of boxing

Canelo dismissed the notion that one fight is enough to make someone the new face of boxing. He argued that one needs to do a lot more than that to earn that title. Canelo cited his accomplishments in moving up and down weight classes, unifying all the belts, and fighting the best in the business as the criteria to become boxing’s new face.

Canelo made it clear that he still considers himself the best pound-for-pound fighter, citing his impressive record of accomplishments. He added that no one has been doing what he has been doing and that he still feels he is number one.

The legendary Manny Pacquiao dropped a bombshell while quietly observing the electrifying showdown between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou last week.

According to Marca, the 44-year-old boxing icon disclosed his intent to step into the ring once again against the enigmatic Floyd Mayweather Jr.

While nothing has been set in stone just yet, this potential spectacle promises to be an unforgettable exhibition of pugilistic prowess.

Pacquiao, ever the tireless warrior, affirmed his unwavering commitment to his craft in an interview with Fight Hub TV.

“I am still active. I am an active guy. I am actively training. I have an exhibition match this coming December in Japan. We are working on it, the opponent. We’re working with Mayweather. Yes, a Mayweather fight,” he said.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER AND MANNY PACQUIAO

Should Mayweather’s elusive signature remain out of reach, the Filipino dynamo has a contingency plan up his sleeve.

Pacquiao, who seems utterly fearless in his pursuit of the extraordinary, is poised to seek out another adversary.

He called out Gervonta Davis, affectionately known as “Tank.”

In an interview, Pacquiao spoke of the prospect of facing the rising star, saying, “Davis is a good fighter, a good fighter. If he wants to and comes up to 147, then we can fight. 145, maybe. It’s not a problem for me; I am an experienced fighter.”

Pacquiao is actively working to represent the Philippines at the 2024 Olympics, provided the committee eliminates the age limit.

When Errol Spence Jr. squared off against Terence Crawford in July this year, ‘Bud’ completely dismantled ‘The Truth’. In addition to being more active, Crawford landed some significant and accurate shots on Errol that found the latter in a fix. Eventually, with his ruthless power and technical intelligence, ‘Bud’ wobbled and stopped Spence Jr. in the ring.

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Despite being shockingly outboxed, as per the latest updates, Errol Spence Jr. exercised his contractual right and asked for a rematch at 154lbs. At this, although several entities lauded Spence Jr.’s warrior spirit, they hoped he would consider retirement given the magnitude of the injuries he sustained in life. In this context, while the boxing world contemplated the potential outcome of Spence Jr. vs. ‘Bud,’ recently an X user accused Crawford of cheating against ‘The Truth.’

Terence Crawford

Fans frustrated as a random user states Terence Crawford wrapped his hands illegally against Errol Spence Jr.

According to a random user, Terence Crawford put tape directly on the skin. In their opinion, it is an illegal method of intensifying his punching power. At this, while the user accused Crawford of cheating, several fans objected to the shared brief clip. Here is what they are saying:

According to one, since it has been four months, people should move on. In this context, they added, “Spence got washed“.

Manny Pacquiao quietly revealed last week while in attendance for Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou that he’s going to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. next month, if all goes well, of course. The would-be rematch is going to be an exhibition, but nothing is official as of now.

Pacquiao, 44, told Fight Hub TV he is still training and eager to get back inside the ring. The fight against Mayweather would happen in Japan with Japanese fight promotion RIZIN.

“I’m still active, I’m an active guy, I’m actively training. I have an exhibition match this coming December in Japan,” Pacquiao revealed. “We’re working on it, the opponent. We’re working with Mayweather. Yes [a Mayweather fight].”

If Mayweather does not agree to fight Pacquiao, who would even unretire in hopes of marring Money’s undefeated record, the Philipino fighter is likely going to have a backup opponent.

Floyd Mayweather

Manny Pacquiao calls out Gervonta Davis

Pacquiao is also working on representing The Philippines at the 2024 Olympics if the committee removes the age limit.

He also called out Gervonta Davis. Pacquiao would fight “Tank” if it happens at welterweight.

“Davis is a good fighter, a good fighter,” Pacquiao said. “If he wants [to] and comes up to 147, then we can fight. 145, maybe. It’s not a problem for me, I’m an experienced fighter.”