In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, boxing enthusiasts are gearing up for what is being hailed as the most sensational fight card the sport has ever witnessed. The upcoming event at the Kingdom Arena promises a lineup of seven exhilarating bouts that have captured the attention of fans worldwide.
Boxing promoters are renowned for their extravagant claims and event marketing tactics. However, the matchups slated for this event are truly exceptional, each possessing the caliber to headline a sold-out arena in its own right. The main highlight of the evening is the highly anticipated rematch for the undisputed light heavyweight title between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, both esteemed pound-for-pound boxers on the global stage. But the excitement extends beyond the main event, with a lineup that is set to make this one of the most significant nights in boxing for 2025.
With four world titles and three interim titles up for grabs, the stage is set for a night of fierce competition. ESPN has painstakingly ranked the fights, offering insights into the best matchups, the reasons to tune in, and predictions on the probable winners.
1. Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol
The rematch for the undisputed light heavyweight championship between Beterbiev and Bivol promises a showdown of epic proportions. Having recently turned 40, Beterbiev displayed remarkable skill and resilience in his previous encounter with Bivol, edging out a victory via majority decision. However, the close nature of their first bout leaves room for fierce competition in the rematch. Bivol, driven by a sense of injustice, is primed to bring his A-game and potentially sway the outcome in his favor. With contrasting styles and strategies, both fighters possess the tools to emerge victorious, setting the stage for a potential trilogy if the fight remains closely contested once again.
2. Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker
In a battle for the IBF heavyweight title, the matchup between Dubois and Parker holds immense significance. Fresh off a stunning victory over former champion Anthony Joshua, Dubois faces a tough challenge in Parker, who is backed by boxing pundits and peers alike to upset the odds. Parker’s strategic prowess against formidable opponents sets the stage for a riveting clash with Dubois, whose power punches pose a significant threat. As the fight unfolds, the dynamics between the two fighters will determine the outcome, making this matchup a must-watch for boxing enthusiasts.
3. Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Ismail Madrimov
A clash for the vacant WBC junior middleweight interim title, the bout between Ortiz Jr. and Madrimov promises fireworks. Ortiz Jr., fresh off a thrilling victory against Serhii Bohachuk, faces off against the formidable Madrimov, known for his impressive performance against elite fighters like Terence Crawford. With both fighters showcasing their skills and resilience, the fight is expected to be a high-octane battle from the opening bell, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
4. Joshua Buatsi vs. Callum Smith
The fight for the WBO light heavyweight interim title pits Buatsi against Smith in a contest of experience and tenacity. Smith, a former WBC super middleweight champion, brings a wealth of experience to the ring, while Buatsi’s recent victories underscore his rising star status in the boxing world. As the two English contenders vie for a shot at the main event winner, their clash is poised to be a defining moment in their careers, with the outcome shaping their future in the sport.
5. Carlos Adames vs. Hamzah Sheeraz
The showdown for the WBC middleweight title between Adames and Sheeraz promises a battle of unbeaten streaks. Sheeraz’s impressive knockout record and recent dominant performances set the stage for a thrilling encounter with Adames, who aims to thwart his opponent’s relentless momentum. As both fighters bring their A-game to the ring, the clash is expected to showcase skill, power, and determination, captivating audiences with each passing round.
6. Agit Kabayel vs. Zhilei Zhang
The heavyweight bout between Kabayel and Zhang kicks off the main card with a promise of excitement and intrigue. Kabayel’s relentless work rate contrasts with Zhang’s deceptive southpaw power, setting the stage for a battle of contrasting styles. With the WBC interim title at stake, both fighters are primed to deliver a thrilling showdown that could potentially pave the way for a shot at the heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk.
7. Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield
Stevenson’s title defense against Schofield offers a glimpse into the technical prowess and counter-punching skills of the reigning champion. Schofield’s aggressive style plays into Stevenson’s strengths, setting the stage for a masterclass in boxing finesse. As Stevenson looks to maintain his unbeaten record, the fight against Schofield serves as a stepping stone towards potential future challenges, including a coveted matchup against Gervonta “Tank” Davis.
In conclusion, the upcoming boxing extravaganza in Riyadh promises a night of unforgettable matchups, fierce competition, and high-stakes battles that are set to captivate fans worldwide. With a lineup of talented fighters, intriguing storylines, and championship titles on the line, the event is poised to make a significant mark on the boxing world in 2025. So mark your calendars, tune in, and witness history in the making as these elite fighters step into the ring for a night of adrenaline-pumping action and sportsmanship at its finest.