Boxing Predictions for 2026 by FIGHT.TV Boxing Predictions for 2026: The Biggest Fights of the Year Not gimmicks. Not manufactured beef. Real fights that feel like events. If 2025 was the reset, 2026 is lining up to be the payoff. The calendar is shaping into something boxing fans have been demanding for years: clarity at the top, legacy driven matchups, and fights that actually answer questions. Here are the bouts that could define boxing in 2026 and why they matter. Oleksandr Usyk vs Deontay Wilder Precision vs Oblivion This fight is chaos theory in boxing form. Oleksandr Usyk  represents control, intelligence, and tactical suffocation. Deontay Wilder  represents one thing and one thing only: erasing consciousness with a single right hand. Stylistically, it’s fascinating. Usyk would likely dominate rounds with movement, angles, and volume. Wilder would lose rounds badly... until he doesn’t. This fight answers a timeless heavyweight question. Can perfect boxing beat nuclear power if the threat never goes away? Prediction: Usyk is favored, but Wilder’s danger never expires. This is the kind of fight where one mistake rewrites everything. Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather II Closure or Chaos Nobody asked for it. Everyone will watch it. A Pacquiao Mayweather rematch in 2026 is less about belts and more about unfinished business. The first fight left fans unsatisfied stylistically, emotionally, and historically. Manny Pacquiao  would enter as the aging warrior, still chasing moments. Floyd Mayweather  would enter as the technician guarding perfection. The stakes are legacy optics. Not records. Prediction: The fight is more competitive than the first due to age slowing defense, but Mayweather’s fundamentals likely still control the outcome. The real win is closure for fans who have debated this for over a decade. Dmitry Bivol vs Michael Eifert The Champion vs the Unknown Problem This is the fight hardcore fans are watching closely. Dmitry Bivol  has quietly become one of boxing’s most respected technicians. Calm. Disciplined. Almost impossible to hit clean. Michael Eifert  represents the kind of opponent champions hate. Less famous. Less predictable. Nothing to lose. Prediction: Bivol’s composure and consistency likely carry him, but this is the kind of matchup where momentum shifts matter. If Eifert forces exchanges, the fight becomes interesting fast. Claressa Shields vs Franchón Crews-Dezurn The Best vs the Toughest Women’s boxing doesn’t get enough credit for delivering clarity. This fight would. Claressa Shields  is about dominance, confidence, and résumé. Franchón Crews-Dezurn  is about grit, experience, and refusing to be overlooked. This matchup is not about hype. It’s about who actually controls elite women’s boxing. Prediction: Shields’ speed, output, and athleticism make her the favorite, but Crews-Dezurn’s toughness ensures this is earned, not gifted. The Return of Tyson Fury The Division Holds Its Breath The biggest wildcard of 2026 is not a fight. It’s a decision. If Tyson Fury  returns, everything changes. The heavyweight division instantly reshuffles. Negotiations accelerate. Pressure increases. Narratives explode. Who he fights is secondary to the fact that he fights. Prediction: If Fury comes back, it’s not for tune ups. It’s for spectacle, money, and legacy control. Expect a massive matchup with possibly Fabio Wardley or a Usyk Trilogy. What This Says About Boxing in 2026 These fights share something important. They are not safe. They carry risk. They carry consequences. They answer questions instead of creating distractions. That’s what boxing has been missing. 👉 www.fight.tv ____________________________________________________________________________________________

RAF 05 Proved Real American Freestyle Is Legit! RAF 05 Proved Real American Freestyle Is More Than a Gimmick, It’s a Wrestling Powerhouse On January 10, 2026 , Real American Freestyle (RAF) returned with an explosion of elite grappling and athletic crossover in Sunrise, Florida. The Amerant Bank Arena was packed, the Fox Nation broadcast was live, and the wrestling mats were the stage for a stacked slate of competitive freestyle bouts that blurred the lines between folkstyle, elite wrestling, and combat sports star power. RAF 05 answered critics, delivered highlights, and established that freestyle wrestling in a professional entertainment format  can bring both legitimacy and spectacle. Here’s how the night went down and why this league might be one of combat sports’ most interesting experiments yet. Main Event: Colby Covington Dominates Luke Rockhold The headliner featured Colby Covington , the former UFC interim welterweight title challenger and NCAA Division I All-American, against UFC veteran Luke Rockhold . In pure freestyle wrestling, Covington’s pedigree showed early and often. He secured takedowns, controlled position, and didn’t cede an inch to Rockhold, earning a 12–0 technical fall victory  in dominant fashion. Following his decisive win and his first competitive outing after a long hiatus. Covington even used his post match spotlight to call out legendary names, hinting that his competitive fire is far from spent. Cruiserweight Title: Kyle Dake Retains in Thrilling Contest In a rematch viewers had been waiting for, Kyle Dake  successfully defended his cruiserweight title against Mahamedkhabib “Kadik” Kadzimahamedau. After a tactical opening period, Dake found his rhythm and began to pull away, ultimately holding on for a 10–7 victory . Their competitive back-and-forth was one of the strongest displays of seasoned wrestling on the card, and fans are already calling for a trilogy. Arman Tsarukyan Impresses in RAF Debut Lightweight standout Arman Tsarukyan  made his freestyle wrestling debut with authority, putting away seasoned competitor Lance Palmer  by technical fall (10–0) . Tsarukyan’s performance showed a fluid transition from MMA grappling to pure wrestling, reminding fans that high-level athletes can excel across disciplines when skill and preparation align. Bantamweight & Other Standouts The rest of the card was packed with decisive performances and emerging stars: Austin DeSanto  took home the RAF Bantamweight title with an 11–1 technical fall  over Nathan Tomasello. Jordan Oliver  edged Real Woods 3–3 on criteria to secure the featherweight championship after Woods missed weight. Stephen Buchanan  made a statement with a 10–0 tech fall  victory over Yoel Romero, positioning himself as a potential future contender. Bo Bassett  continued his momentum with a 14–4 win  over Cayden Henschell. Zahid Valencia  rebounded with a 4–0 victory  over Nate Jackson. Mostafa Elders  and Pat Lugo  also picked up solid decisions in competitive matchups. Georgio Poullas  dominated his openweight bout with an 11–1 tech fall . What RAF 05 Means for 2026 RAF 05: Covington vs. Rockhold  wasn’t a one off spectacle, it was a statement. Real American Freestyle is building something rare in combat sports: a competitive, recognizable freestyle wrestling product that feels like an event.  With stars crossing over from MMA and wrestling stalwarts alike, RAF 05 showed there’s a real appetite for unscripted elite grappling delivered in a sports-entertainment format. And it’s just getting started. RAF has more events on the horizon, including RAF 06: Cejudo vs. Faber  on February 28, 2026, poised to build on the momentum from Sunrise. If 2026 is the year fans get serious, competitive crossover entertainment outside the cage, RAF just showed that wrestling can run with the big dogs and maybe even pull ahead. 👉 www.fight.tv ________________________________________________

FIGHT.TV GUIDE 2026 FIGHT TV GUIDE: 2026 Combat Sports Programming 🟥 The Year of the Warrior FIGHT.TV is redefining the way fans experience combat sports. With a bold, cinematic approach and a global reach, the 2026 programming slate is packed with adrenaline, legacy, and raw intensity. The newly launched FIGHT TV GUIDE  offers a front-row seat to every punch, every roar, and every victory. 🥊 Upcoming Combat Sports Events FIGHT.TV ’s programming spans the full spectrum of combat disciplines: Bareknuckle Brawls : Unfiltered, primal, and brutally honest. MMA Showdowns : Cage wars featuring rising stars and seasoned champions. Boxing Main Cards : High-stakes bouts with title implications and legacy on the line. Global Fight Nights : International matchups showcasing diverse styles and warrior cultures. 🎬 Exclusive Access Behind the gloves and beyond the ring, FIGHT.TV delivers the rawest, realest combat content on the planet. From backstage interviews to training camp footage, fans get unprecedented access to the lives and legacies of the fighters. 🔥 Who’s Next? 2026 is the year of the warrior. FIGHT.TV invites viewers to tune in for: The rise of new legends The return of iconic champions The battles that will define a generation 📺 How to Watch FIGHT.TV is available across all major platforms, offering live broadcasts, replays, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content. The integrated QR code system allows fans to instantly access schedules, fighter profiles, and event updates. 💥 Hashtags to Follow #FightTVGuide #CombatSeason2026 #FIGHTTV #GlobalFightNights FIGHT.TV isn’t just a network — it’s a movement. The FIGHT TV GUIDE  is your passport to the most electrifying year in combat sports history.

Mike Tyson Was The Most Dangerous Boxer in History 🥊 Why Prime Mike Tyson Was The Most Dangerous Boxer in History When you talk about the most dangerous fighters to ever step into a ring, one name always ignites the debate - “Iron” Mike Tyson. Strip away the tabloid chaos, the post prison comeback, and the later life redemption arc. Focus on 1986 to 1989 in Tyson’s prime. That three year stretch wasn’t just dominance. It was a nightmare for the heavyweight division. Sports betting for Heavyweight title fights died because nobody dared to bet against a round 1 knockout from Tyson. It was truly the most ruthless domination in boxing history. ⚡ The Meteoric Rise At just 20 years old, Mike Tyson became the youngest Heavyweight Champion in boxing history (a record still held to this day) when he flattened Trevor Berbick in 1986. The knockout was violent and surgical with Berbick down from one punch. Under the legendary guidance of Cus D’Amato’s peek a boo system, Tyson became a physical paradox: 5’10”, but faster than most welterweights, stronger than any heavyweight alive, and ruthless in his precision. Every punch had intent. Every movement had menace. Tyson wasn’t fighting opponents as much as he was dismantling them. 🧠 The Anatomy of Fear What separated Tyson from his contemporaries wasn’t just speed or power, it was psychological warfare. He once said: "I want to break his will. I want to take his manhood. I want to rip out his heart and show it to him." His defensive head movement and exploding out of the peek a boo stance, made him nearly untouchable in his prime. Tyson would slip, weave, and counter with thunderous combinations that often ended fights in under two minutes. At his peak, he was the perfect combination of ferocity, discipline, and fearlessness. The kind of fighter that made even the most seasoned veterans hesitate. 🧩 The Stats Tell the Story From 1986 to 1989: Tyson went 37–0 , with 33 knockouts . 16 of those KOs came in the first round. He unified the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles , becoming the first undisputed Heavyweight Champion in over a decade. He knocked out Michael Spinks, who entered the ring 31–0, in just 91 seconds. A moment that encapsulated the Tyson phenomenon. The fight was over before most fans found their seats. ⚔️ The Perfect Storm Tyson wasn’t just fighting men because he was fighting the legacy of Ali, Dempsey, and Liston. For a blistering era, he surpassed them all in sheer dominance. He was a heavyweight built like a tank, moved like a middleweight, and punched like an artillery cannon. Every performance during that era looked less like sport and more like execution. His combination punching with the left hook to the body and right uppercut upstairs, was poetry in brutality. 🧠 Why “Prime Mike Tyson” Still Haunts Boxing Modern heavyweights from Fury to Joshua to Wilder, have power. Yet none combine intimidation, speed, explosiveness, and technical discipline the way Tyson did under D’Amato and Rooney’s guidance. Even Hall of Famers who fought during that time, like Larry Holmes later admitted they’d never seen anything like it. Holmes said after being stopped by Tyson: “He hit me with punches that made me wonder if I’d wake up tomorrow.” That’s the legacy of prime Mike Tyson. Not just the wins, but the aura. 🕊️ Legacy Beyond Chaos Tyson’s life unraveled in the 1990s with legal troubles, addictions, and managerial chaos all playing their part. But nothing can erase those years where he redefined what it meant to be dangerous. Prime Tyson was a force of nature, a fighter whose blend of technique and ferocity still defines the word intimidation in combat sports. To this day, boxing fans debate who was the greatest, but few argue who was the most feared. Because when Tyson was at his peak, the world didn’t ask if he’d win - they asked how long until the knockout? 👉 Read more iconic fight stories at www.fight.tv _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

UFC 322 Breakdown: What Islam Makhachev & Jack Della Maddalena Must Do to Win UFC 322 Breakdown: What Islam Makhachev & Jack Della Maddalena Must Do to Win UFC 322 delivers one of the most intriguing stylistic clashes in recent memory: Islam Makhachev , the pound-for-pound king and lightweight champion moving up to welterweight, versus Jack Della Maddalena , the Australian sharpshooter with elite boxing, patience, and lethal finishing instincts. This isn’t just a fight. This is a collision of MMA philosophies. FIGHT.TV breaks down what each man must do to secure victory  and walk away with the welterweight title. What Islam Makhachev Must Do to Win ✔️ 1. Blend His Striking and Wrestling Early Islam is at his most dangerous when his opponent cannot predict the next phase. He doesn't need to spam takedowns, he just needs to threaten  them. His striking has evolved enough that mixing jabs and level changes will freeze JDM’s forward pressure. Key Objective:  Keep Jack guessing, never let him settle into a boxing rhythm. ✔️ 2. Chain Wrestle, Don’t Single Shot JDM’s initial takedown defense is better than fans think, but his scramble awareness  is where Islam can take over. Islam’s hallmark isn’t the first shot, it’s shots two, three, and four  until he finds the back or a dominant ride. Key Objective:  Turn early grappling exchanges into long, suffocating sequences. ✔️ 3. Smother the Body and Drain the Gas Tank Jack’s power and timing dip significantly when he’s forced to work off the cage. If Islam can: wrist ride knee the thigh attack legs force mat returns Jack’s biggest weapon is clean pocket striking, Islam needs to avoid this. Key Objective:  Break rhythm, break posture, break cardio. ✔️ 4. Avoid Extended Kickboxing Exchanges Jack’s biggest advantage here is range control and boxing precision. Islam should strike only as a setup, not a battleground. Key Objective:  Use striking for disguise, not for war. What Jack Della Maddalena Must Do to Win ✔️ 1. Win the First Two Minutes - Dominate the Center Islam’s most dangerous rounds are Round 1 and 2, when he’s freshest. Jack must: push him backward dictate the pace use feints to shut down level changes take the center of the cage and keep it If Islam is backing up, JDM is winning. Key Objective:  Establish pressure early before grappling takes over. ✔️ 2. Target the Body and Legs, Not Just the Head Every boxer who fights a grappler makes the same mistake: headhunting. Jack’s body shots and calf kicks are his best anti wrestling tools . Beat the legs, slow the entries. Beat the body, gas the lungs. Key Objective:  Damage Islam’s movement, not just his chin. ✔️ 3. Create Chaos, Don’t Fight Clean Islam thrives in order. Jack thrives in chaos. If JDM can create unpredictable scrambles, high tempo striking moments, and force Islam into reactive fighting, he can steal rounds or land the shot that changes everything. Key Objective:  Turn this into a fight on the feet that shuts down time on the ground. ✔️ 4. Keep His Back Off the Fence at All Costs Islam is deadliest  when opponents let him lock hands against the cage. Jack must angle out immediately, even if it costs him a strike or two. No hanging out. No stalling. No straight line retreating. Key Objective:  Circle, pivot, escape and survive the squeeze. FIGHT.TV Final Take on UFC 322 Islam Makhachev comes in with the tools, experience, and championship pedigree to dominate anyone in two weight classes. His wrestling and control are unmatched, but Jack Della Maddalena is exactly the kind of striker who can punish even the smallest mistake with a wrestling base to match. This fight will come down to a single question: Can Islam force his world on Jack or can Jack keep the fight on the feet long enough to find the shot that no one sees coming? We see a razor thin matchup where either man can impose their will, and either man can be finished if they don’t. What do you think, fight fans? Let us know below. 👉 www.fight.tv _______________________________________________________

Fight Fixing, Betting Scandals & The Integrity of Combat Sports Fight Fixing, UFC Betting Scandals & The Integrity of Combat Sports Why This Problem Is Bigger Than MMA And Why Accountability Matters Now More Than Ever Fight fixing isn’t a new concept. It isn’t shocking. It isn’t something unique to modern MMA. It’s an uncomfortable truth that has existed in combat sports for over a century, from smoky backroom boxing matches to today’s massive global promotions. What is  new however, is the way modern technology especially sports betting has amplified the risks. The money and the scrutiny around it all. The UFC betting scandals sounds like a new problem, it's not. With recent headlines reporting investigations into suspicious betting line movements, referee oversight, and potential fighter manipulation. The integrity of combat sports is once again under the microscope. Let’s break down why this has always been a threat , who’s responsible , and why the UFC is not the villain  in this conversation. A History of Corruption: This Didn’t Start With MMA Fighters from past generations have openly stated they were approached, bribed, or pressured to throw fights. Some even accepted the deal and were later exposed. This goes back to: The mob-influenced boxing era of the 1940s–1960s The infamous Sonny Liston controversies Multiple boxing figures convicted of fixing outcomes Promoters banned for influencing judges Fighters admitting decades later they “took a dive” Combat sports grew out of gritty environments where big money met minimal regulation. The temptation was always there and sometimes, fighters facing desperate circumstances made devastating choices. So when modern fans act shocked about investigations? They shouldn’t be. The problem didn’t appear, it merely evolved. The Betting Boom: The New Wild West Sports betting is now a multibillion dollar industry, accessible to millions with a single tap on an app. That means: Larger betting swings More suspicious line changes More outsiders trying to exploit fighters More incentive for organized crime to attempt influence More need for oversight than ever before A single insider tip can move millions of dollars. A fighter with financial struggles can be targeted. A corrupt coach, manager, or referee can create chaos. It’s not paranoia. It’s the reality of modern sports economics. Regulatory Agencies Do  Crack Down & Hard Contrary to fan conspiracies, athletic commissions and sports integrity groups are extremely aggressive in identifying suspicious patterns. They look for: Sudden heavy bets on unusual props Odd line movements minutes before a fight Referees with questionable histories Fighters pulling out or changing strategy unexpectedly Coaches or cornermen betting on their own athletes Syndicates placing coordinated bets There is a reason fighters today have strict rules about: No betting on their own fights Mandatory reporting of injuries Scrutiny of training partners’ betting The system isn’t perfect but it is  active, and it does  catch people. The UFC Is Not the Villain Here And They’ve Cooperated Fully Despite online speculation, no evidence suggests the UFC participates in or encourages fight manipulation. In fact, they have repeatedly: Cooperated with regulatory bodies Instituted their own betting rules Suspended implicated fighters Supported investigations Updated policies to prevent insider betting The UFC’s entire business model depends on credibility. A compromised product destroys their brand, their fighters’ livelihoods, and the future of the sport. It’s not logical and not supported by facts to say the UFC benefits from fight fixing. If anything, they’ve been more proactive  than other promotions or sports in general in preventing it. The Real Responsibility Lies With the Combat Sports Community Promoters cannot police everything. Referees cannot see everything. Regulators cannot predict everything. This issue sits on the shoulders of all of us : Fighters Coaches Managers Fans Bettors Media Gyms Training partners Because fight fixing doesn’t begin with Dana White. It begins with someone in the shadows offering a desperate fighter $20,000 to take a fall. It begins with a betting syndicate trying to exploit inside information. It begins with fans pressuring fighters online about parlays. It begins with a culture that doesn’t understand how dangerous a compromised fight truly is. The entire community must demand honesty, transparency, and accountability. Without it, the future of the sport is at risk. FIGHT.TV Breaks It Down Combat sports are built on authenticity. Two individuals enter an arena to test skill, will, and heart. When corruption enters that equation, the entire foundation cracks. The answer isn’t fear mongering or blaming promotions. The answer is vigilance, integrity, and community accountability. Fight fixing is real. It’s dangerous. It’s been around longer than most fans have been alive. But combat sports has survived it before and will survive it again. 👉 Stay updated with the latest fight industry insights at www.fight.tv ________________________________________

UFC 323 Breakdown: What Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan Each Must To Do Win Stakes & Backstory Leading Up To UFC 323 At UFC 323 the world watches to see if Dvalishvili can do something history has never seen, defend a UFC title four times in one calendar year. Yan returns looking to avenge his loss, reestablish himself as a force in the UFC bantamweight division, and claim his throne. Their first fight ended in a decisive win for The Machine with a commanding display of wrestling, pressure, and control. This rematch will test whether Yan has learned from that defeat and whether Dvalishvili can keep grinding under the bright lights again. So what must each man do to get the W? What Merab Dvalishvili Must Do to Win Lean into nonstop pressure and wrestling dominance: Dvalishvili’s best path remains grinding the pace, mixing takedowns with top control and forcing Yan into uncomfortable territory. His success depends on turning this fight into a war of attrition. Solid wrestling and conditioning are key. Avoid striking brawls, don’t get drawn into heavy exchanges: Yan still carries dangerous hands and a sharp sense for counters. Dvalishvili should avoid trading bombs. Instead he needs to use movement, level changes, and clinch entries to avoid being knocked out or stunned. Maintain octagon control and mental pace making this a five round fight on his terms: If Dvalishvili controls the inside distance, timing, and where the fight happens (cage, mat, clinch) while keeping pressure high. He must force Yan to fight reactive, tired, and behind. Stick to fundamentals with grappling control, cardio, fight IQ: A well rounded MMA skill set with wrestling defense, ground control, clinch work, and stellar cardio remains Dvalishvili’s foundation. Any slip in fundamentals gives Yan an opening. What Petr Yan Must Do to Win Defend takedowns like his life depends on it: Yan must intelligently sprawl, use lateral movement, and avoid letting Dvalishvili dictate the fight’s geography. Reducing the number of takedowns he allows will be the game changer. Takedown defense, movement, and avoiding repeated wrestling gradients could swing the fight. Use striking intelligently with volume, body shots, and counters: If Yan can keep the fight on the feet, use his striking precision and variety (body shots, head kicks, counters), he can accumulate damage and perhaps discourage Dvalishvili’s grappling advances. He should also capitalize on moments when the champion drops levels or lunges for takedowns. Be smart about pacing to avoid burnout, evade pressure, pick his moments: Fighting Dvalishvili means dealing with constant pressure and pace. Yan needs to conserve energy, manage outside distance, and strike when Dvalishvili fatigues. A well timed striking burst or defensive scramble could sway rounds. Stay sharp mentally and don’t panic under pressure, remain composed: Under the storm of Dvalishvili’s pressure, many fighters fold. Yan needs mental resilience to defend takedowns calmly, weather scrambles, and avoid desperation. A clear mind and steady composure can turn moments into opportunities. Who Has the Edge Based on everything we know: Dvalishvili enters the fight as the clear favorite. His strengths on relentless pressure, wrestling, cardio, fight-IQ are what suit the championship rounds. His current win over Yan and consistency this year gives him momentum few champions carry. Yan wins if he changes the fight’s complexion and has studied his loss to Merab well. He needs to defend takedowns with body shots and knees, force stand up exchanges by staying on the outside, strike smart, and avoid the grind. His path to victory is narrower but not impossible especially if he fights with urgency and sharp game planning. FIGHT.TV Breaks It Down! At UFC 323 this is more than a rematch. This is era defining. Dvalishvili can cement his name among the all time greats if he defends the belt a fourth time in one year. Yan enters rematch hungry, smarter, and battle tested. If Dvalishvili enforces pace and control it will be another dominant performance. If Yan forces backpedaling striking and takedown defense with body shots or knees to the head, he might rewrite the story. This fight is a chess match. ______________________________________________________________

Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul: What Each Fighter Must Do to Win Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul: What Each Fighter Must Do to Win Their High Stakes Clash A Complete FIGHT.TV Breakdown Boxing purists never thought they’d see this matchup. YouTube sensation turned boxer Jake Paul  stepping into the ring against two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua ? Here we are and make no mistake, this fight is far more complex than “boxer vs. influencer.” Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul is going to be a phenomenal fight and the stakes couldn't be higher. Joshua wants to make a statement. Paul wants to prove he belongs. Both men have a lot on the line and the skill to win. Here’s your full breakdown of exactly what each fighter must do to secure a win. What Anthony Joshua Must Do to Win Anthony Joshua is the vastly more accomplished fighter. But a win isn’t automatic and he knows it. Paul has youth, awkward timing, and fearlessness on his side. Meaning AJ needs a disciplined and calculated approach. ✔️ 1. Establish the Jab Early and Often Joshua’s jab is his most important weapon. When AJ controls range, he controls the fight. If he pumps the jab and keeps Paul at the end of his punches, it becomes a long night for the Problem Child. Key Diagnostic:  If Joshua lands consistent jabs each round, Paul is in serious trouble. ✔️ 2. Don’t Underestimate Paul’s Power Jake Paul may not be a world class champion boxer, but he can punch hard and AJ has been caught before. Joshua cannot fight casual, lazy, or open chinned. Paul’s best chance is a timing based right hand. AJ has endured more damage fighting heavyweights his whole life and Jake will go into this being able to take more damage than Anthony will. AJ must avoid brawling with Paul. Key Defensive Note:  AJ must keep his chin tucked and avoid mid range pocket brawls. ✔️ 3. Invest in the Body Early Paul is powerful but not conditioned for true heavyweight pacing. Body shots remove snap from the right hand and severely slow footwork. Winning Condition:  If AJ commits to body shots, the fight likely goes in his favor. ✔️ 4. Force Paul Backward Jake Paul is a completely different fighter when backing up. His power disappears. His fundamentals break. His guard falls apart. Strategic Objective:  Keep Paul moving backward, never allow him to set his feet. Wear his cardio down. What Jake Paul Must Do to Win Jake Paul winning would be one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. Is it impossible? No. Is it Everest? Absolutely. But Paul does  have paths to victory and he just needs to execute flawlessly. ✔️ 1. Make It Ugly and Awkward Paul cannot box traditionally with Joshua. He must fight like a disruptive wildcard: feints, clinches, looping shots, unpredictability. Key Factor:  Disrupt AJ’s rhythm. Don’t let Joshua get comfortable. ✔️ 2. Focus on Counterpunching AJ’s Jab This is Jake’s best and maybe only real chance. Time Joshua’s jab, slip outside, and fire the overhand right. It’s the same blueprint Andy Ruiz used, except Jake must do it without Ruiz’s Heavyweight experience. Winning Moment:  If Paul lands a clean counter early, the energy in the arena will shift instantly. ✔️ 3. Stay Light, Stay Mobile If Paul sits still, Joshua bulldozes him. He must jab, circle, reset, and repeat while forcing AJ to chase laterally, not walk him down vertically. Key Footwork Rule:  Never get stuck moving backwards against AJ. ✔️ 4. Manage Energy Like a Veteran Paul has faded late in fights. Joshua is older, but his gas tank has improved. Jake must pace himself: No wild barrages in early rounds No unnecessary clinch boxing No reckless mid range combos Victory Condition:  If Paul reaches the late rounds in good form and maintains outside pressure, he becomes dangerous. If Paul can do this the entire fight, he will get opportunities to test Joshua's chin. Tactical Summary: Who Controls the Fight on Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul? Joshua controls the range → Joshua dominates. Paul controls the timing → Paul becomes dangerous. This fight will come down to discipline, not just skill. FIGHT.TV Final Prediction Anthony Joshua is the heavy favorite. If he fights smart, he should win comfortably. But Jake Paul is not entering this fight for a payday. He believes he can  win. Belief is a dangerous fuel for an underdog with knockout power. Joshua must avoid complacency. Paul must avoid tradition. Both must avoid mistakes. This matchup is far more intriguing than the boxing world wants to admit. 👉 For more fight breakdowns and combat sports analysis, visit www.fight.tv/fight-report ______________________________________________

Why Terence Crawford Was Stripped of His WBC Title Why Terence Crawford Was Stripped of His Super Middleweight WBC Title And How the Boxing World Is Split The sanctioning fee controversy shaking the 168 lb division When the WBC announced they were stripping Terence “Bud” Crawford  of his Super Middleweight world title for non payment of sanctioning fees , the combat sports world erupted. One of the greatest fighters of this era is a man who conquered multiple divisions, dethroned Canelo Álvarez, and remains undefeated at 168 yet suddenly found himself without one of his belts. FIGHT.TV explains why Terence Crawford was stripped of his WBC Title. Why did this happen And more importantly… was it justified? Let’s break down the full story, the fallout, and what’s next for Crawford and the division. Why Crawford Was Stripped: The Sanctioning Fee Battle Here are the confirmed key facts: The WBC stripped Crawford for failing to pay their sanctioning fees , which apply to championship bouts. These fees typically come out to 3% of a fighter’s purse, but for Crawford’s massive payday against Canelo (approx. $50M), the WBC reduced  the fee to just 0.6% , about $300,000 . According to WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, Crawford’s team: did not pay did not respond did not acknowledge any WBC communication As a result, the WBC declared his title vacant , scheduling a title fight between Christian Mbilli and Hamzah Sheeraz to crown a new champion. Crawford still holds the WBA, WBO, and IBF  belts but the green strap is now off his waist. Crawford’s Response: “You Can Take the F *ing Belt” Crawford did not stay quiet. His response was sharp, emotional, and blunt: He criticized the WBC for demanding fees from fighters who risk their lives. He argued that sanctioning bodies make millions off fighters while contributing little. He pointed out inconsistencies between what other organizations charge. He essentially rejected the legitimacy of the WBC fee structure  as a whole. And finally, he told the WBC publicly: “You can take the f---ing belt.” It was a line that shook boxing’s political system and has forced a larger conversation about whether sanctioning bodies are outdated, predatory, or simply mismatched with modern fighter economics. The Bigger Issue: Boxing’s Broken Sanctioning System This situation exposes long-standing problems: Sanctioning Fees Are Controversial They were created to support fighter pensions, medical protections, safety regulations, and organizational structure, but many argue the system has turned into a pay-to-play bureaucracy . Different Bodies Charge Different Fees The lack of standardization leads to: confusion frustration distrust resentment from fighters The Higher the Purse, the Higher the Fee For pound-for-pound stars like Crawford, sanctioning fees can be mid-six figures  for a single fight. Fighters increasingly question whether the value is worth the cost. Crawford’s Outburst Touched a Nerve Because he said out loud what many fighters whisper in private: Why are we, the ones risking brain damage, paying the organizations instead of the other way around? What Happens Next for the Super Middleweight Division? The WBC title will now move forward without Crawford. Here’s what fans can expect: 1. Mbilli vs. Sheeraz Will Crown the Next WBC Champion A new face may rise, but they will forever carry an asterisk: “You didn’t beat Crawford for the belt.” 2. A Potential Unification Fight Is Now More Complicated Without the WBC strap, the path to undisputed at 168 is fractured. 3. Crawford May Simply Move On He still holds three belts. He still has superstar drawing power. The WBC may need him  more than he needs them. 4. Crawford Could Be Done With Sanctioning Politics Entirely This may accelerate his exit from the boxing bureaucracy and influence other fighters to challenge the system. FIGHT.TV Breaks It Down At FIGHT.TV , we analyze facts first, but we also recognize patterns. And the truth is: We side with Terence Crawford on this one. Here’s why: Crawford gave fans everything : legacy fights, masterful performances, multi-division dominance. He risked brain cells for decades, something no sanctioning body employee has ever done. He already proved himself at 168 by beating Canelo, one of the greatest boxers of the modern era. His career does not hinge on one organization’s approval. The WBC followed its rules, but rules don’t always mean fairness  or logic . Crawford has reached a level where: ✔️ He’s already cemented as an all time great ✔️ He doesn’t need belts to validate his legacy ✔️ His name alone sells fights ✔️ He has nothing left to prove And maybe, just maybe it’s time to think about his next chapter. Is Coaching Crawford’s True Final Act? If Crawford walked away tomorrow and decided to become: a head coach a strategist the mentor of the next generational talent …would anyone doubt he’d excel? Crawford’s mind is elite. His discipline is elite. His skill is timeless. He might be the perfect architect for the next GOAT , not just the next champion. Fighters don’t fight forever. Icons evolve. Crawford might be entering the phase where he shapes new legends  instead of defending belts from old systems. 👉 Read more combat sports insights at www.fight.tv/fight-report ______________________________________________

Steven Asplund - Rising UFC Star Steven Asplund: From Massive Weight Loss to UFC Breakout Star Every once in a while, a fighter’s story cuts deeper than wins and losses. Steven Asplund  is one of those fighters. His journey to the UFC wasn’t built on hype, privilege, or shortcuts. It was built on discipline, reinvention, and an almost unbelievable personal transformation. One that started long before he ever stepped into the Octagon. At UFC Vegas 112 , Asplund didn’t just win his UFC debut. He announced himself as a problem in the heavyweight division and reminded fight fans why the sport still produces real, human stories worth paying attention to. A Life Completely Rewritten Before Steven Asplund was a rising UFC heavyweight, he was fighting a much different battle. Asplund underwent a dramatic weight loss transformation, shedding hundreds of pounds in a process that demanded consistency, self accountability, and mental toughness most people never experience. This wasn’t a cosmetic change, it was a complete lifestyle overhaul. Cutting from 500+ pounds to 260. That transformation laid the foundation for everything that came next. The discipline required to lose that weight would later translate directly into his approach to MMA: relentless effort, controlled aggression, and a refusal to quit when things get uncomfortable. Finding MMA and Thriving in Chaos Once Asplund turned his focus to mixed martial arts, it became clear that this wasn’t a novelty pursuit. He developed a style built on pressure, volume, and durability . Forcing opponents to fight at a pace they weren’t comfortable with. His performances on the regional circuit showed a fighter who didn’t just want to win, he wanted to break opponents mentally. Asplund began stacking finishes, building a reputation as someone who could maintain output deep into fights, especially unusual for a heavyweight. That combination of cardio, aggression, and confidence quickly caught the attention of UFC matchmakers. UFC Vegas 112: A Statement Debut When Asplund finally made his UFC debut at UFC Vegas 112 , the expectations were cautious. Heavyweight debuts can be volatile, and newcomers often struggle under the lights. Asplund didn’t. He delivered a violent, high paced performance , overwhelming his opponent and securing a second round TKO victory . The fight was action packed from the opening bell and earned Fight of the Night honors , along with a $50,000 bonus. More importantly, it showed that Asplund wasn’t just surviving at the UFC level. He was thriving. Why Steven Asplund Is Different What separates Asplund from many heavyweight prospects isn’t just power. He pushes a pace most heavyweights can’t sustain He throws volume without panicking He stays dangerous late into fights He doesn’t look for exits when exchanges get ugly That mindset is a direct extension of his personal journey. Someone who has already rebuilt their life from the ground up doesn’t fold easily inside a cage. A Rising Name in the Heavyweight Division With his debut win, Asplund improved his professional record and immediately placed himself on the radar as a heavyweight to watch moving forward. The division is always hungry for new blood with fighters who can entertain, finish, and bring real grit into the Octagon. Asplund checks all three boxes. Whether he climbs the rankings quickly or continues developing fight by fight, one thing is already clear: Steven Asplund belongs in the UFC . More Than a Fighter Steven Asplund’s story resonates beyond MMA. It’s a reminder that transformation is possible, that discipline compounds, and that the hardest battles often happen before anyone is watching. From massive weight loss to a Fight of the Night UFC debut, his rise is proof that persistence still matters in combat sports. Judging by his trajectory, this is only the beginning. ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Usyk vs Wilder could happen mid to late 2026 Usyk vs Wilder - Negotiations Underway for a Heavyweight Blockbuster: Here’s Everything We Know The heavyweight division may be on the verge of another seismic moment. According to both fighters’ camps, negotiations are officially underway  for a massive showdown between undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk  and former WBC champion Deontay Wilder . No date is set, no contracts are signed, and yet the fight world is buzzing. This is one of those matchups that combines boxing royalty , fan intrigue , and questions that only a fight can answer . Why the Usyk vs. Wilder Fight Is Suddenly Real Usyk Wants Wilder Next After conquering the heavyweight division and winning undisputed status, Oleksandr Usyk began looking for the type of matchup that challenges his legacy and draws global interest. Wilder became one of the first names he mentioned publicly. Usyk has called the potential fight “interesting,” noting Wilder’s size, power, and unpredictability. For Usyk, who has already defeated Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, Wilder offers a unique stylistic danger that fans would pay to see. Wilder Responded Immediately Deontay Wilder confirmed that talks are not hypothetical, they’re active. In a recent interview, Wilder said the ongoing negotiations “feel real” and that he’s excited by the direction the discussions are headed. The former WBC champ has had a turbulent few years, but his recent win sparked momentum and renewed confidence. Even with losses on his record, Wilder remains one of the most dangerous punchers in the history of the division. A fight with Usyk is the type of high stakes opportunity he’s been waiting for. Sanctioning Approval Helps Clear the Path The WBC reportedly granted approval for Usyk to make a voluntary title defense against Wilder. This means one of the biggest bureaucratic obstacles, sanctioning logistics is no longer a barrier. This approval signals that governing bodies recognize the commercial and competitive value of the matchup and are willing to accommodate it. Where Negotiations Stand Right Now Here’s the honest truth: the fight is not finalized , yet. Both sides are talking. Both want the fight. But until a contract is signed, the bout is still in the negotiation stage. Key details still being worked out include: Purse split Event site and venue Broadcast platform Timing (likely mid to late 2026) Training camp schedules and promotional obligations Wilder has publicly stated that he won’t lock into a training camp until everything is finalized, showing that while movement is real, the business phase is still underway . Why This Matchup Matters So Much A Collision of Opposites - Usyk vs Wilder Usyk represents the pinnacle of technical mastery. Wilder represents raw knockout devastation. Usyk : movement, accuracy, ring IQ Wilder : one-shot kill power from any moment Boxing thrives on matchups of contrast, and this fight delivers exactly that. A Legacy Fight for Both Men For Usyk, beating Wilder adds another elite name to a résumé already filled with achievements across two weight divisions. For Wilder, a chance to knock off the undisputed champion is both a redemption arc and a final stamp of relevance in the modern heavyweight era. A Commercially Massive Fight Both fighters have international fanbases. Both draw media attention. Both bring unique narratives. This is the type of heavyweight matchup that fans circle on the calendar and promoters salivate over. What Could Happen Next If the Fight Gets Signed Expect a global press tour, massive broadcast hype, and a heavyweight event comparable to Fury Wilder or Joshua Usyk in scale. The division instantly becomes the hottest topic in boxing. If Negotiations Fall Apart Usyk still has several pathways including top contenders and champions across sanctioning bodies. Wilder meanwhile, may pivot to another marquee fight, but none would carry the prestige or financial upside of facing Usyk. Both fighters have incentives to make the deal happen, which is why insiders are optimistic. FIGHT.TV Breaks It Down This is no longer fantasy matchmaking. Usyk vs Wilder is legitimately being negotiated , and all signs point to both camps wanting it. Sanctioning bodies are open to it. Fans want it. Broadcasters will pay for it. If finalized, it would be one of the most compelling heavyweight fights of the modern era. A battle between brilliance and brutality, finesse and firepower. For now, the world waits for signatures. Stay tuned, fight fans. FIGHT.TV will keep you updated the moment anything breaks. ______________________________________________

2026 - the influencer era is over in combat sports The Fight Omens Are Here. 2026 Is Lining Up to Be a Great Year for Combat Sports For years, fight fans have felt like real combat sports were being talked over instead of talked about. Algorithms beat rankings. Clout beat credentials. Personalities with microphones drowned out people who actually knew how to fight. Then something shifted. Not subtly. Not quietly. But decisively. A sequence of events unfolded that feels less like coincidence and more like correction. The kind of cosmic course adjustment that fight fans joke about but secretly hope for. The omens are here. If momentum means anything, 2026 could be one of the most honest years combat sports has had in a long time. The Influencer Bubble Took Some Clean Shots It started with Jake Paul  finally stepping into a fight where the advantages were gone. No massive size edge. No age gap. No narrative padding. Across from him stood Anthony Joshua , a two time heavyweight world champion who has lived at the highest level of the sport. The result was simple. Reality won. Jake Paul got knocked out and his jaw broke. For the first time in his boxing run, the loss did not feel manufactured or dismissible. It felt earned. Honest. Boxing reclaimed the moment. Around the same time, Andrew Tate  stepped back into the ring after nearly a decade away. Instead of a carefully selected showcase, he faced Chase DeMoor , a younger and active fighter with momentum. The outcome was not kind to Tate. He lost. Cleanly. No spin required. Then there was Jack Doherty , whose attempt to exist near real fighters ended predictably. A backstage confrontation with Andrei Arlovski  resulted in Doherty and his friends being physically reminded of the difference between content creation and combat. That chapter does not need a rematch. Or a sequel. Or a podcast response. Meanwhile. Real Fighters Started Winning Again While the noise was getting quieter, something else happened. Fighters started doing fighter things. Tony Ferguson , a name many had prematurely written off, started winning again. Not in viral clips. Not in gimmicks. In boxing we saw El Cucuy bounce back after having the longest losing streak in the UFC, leaving the promotion, and seeing him get wins this year in boxing has been great. It felt symbolic. The same industry that once chewed him up was now watching him rediscover rhythm and confidence. A reminder that fighters are not disposable characters. They are professionals and sometimes all they need is space to work. This Feels Like a Correction. Not a Trend What makes this moment interesting is not just who lost or who won. It is how it happened. Big names faced real opposition. Internet personalities stopped being insulated. Fighters stopped playing supporting roles in their own sport. For years, fans asked for this. Real tests. Real consequences. Real fights. Suddenly, it is all happening at once. Does This Mean 2026 Is About to Go Nuclear If the current trajectory holds, 2026 could be stacked. Not because of spectacle. But because of alignment. Promoters seem more willing to test stars. Fighters seem more willing to take risks. Audiences are rewarding authenticity over theatrics. The influencer era is not dead. But it might finally be shrinking back to where it belongs. Adjacent to the sport. Not on top of it. Give Credit Where It Is Due To be clear, credit is owed. Jake Paul deserves respect for stepping into the ring with a legitimate two time heavyweight champion. That is not easy. That is not safe. It is not something most internet stars would ever attempt. Andrew Tate also deserves acknowledgment for getting back into the ring after a long hiatus and facing a younger opponent in his prime. Many talk about fighting. Few actually do it. Jack Doherty does not need credit. He needs distance. Go outside. Go be a video game nerd or whatever it is you do. Stay away from real fighters. Final Bell Fight fans asked for accountability. They asked for merit. They asked for the sport to feel real again. Right now, it does. If these omens hold, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where combat sports stop apologizing for being combat sports. And that is exactly what the fans have been praying for. 👉 www.fight.tv ____________________________________________________________________________________________