Anthony Joshua's resolute declaration that he's never dodged a fight is a testament to his warrior ethos, particularly spotlighted by his eagerness to face giants like Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury. Despite the setbacks and the frustrating collapse of these high-profile bouts, Joshua's readiness to square off against boxing's elite cements his status as a fearless competitor in the heavyweight division. The narrative of missed opportunities against Wilder and Fury adds a layer of intrigue to Joshua's career, marking uncharted territory that fans and pundits alike yearn to explore. Joshua's assertion that deals were in place for these monumental fights, only to be scuttled by circumstances beyond his control, highlights the unpredictable nature of boxing negotiations. The Wilder fight, in particular, seemed a done deal, stirring excitement among the boxing community for a clash that promised fireworks. Joshua's frustration with the collapse of this fight underscores the complexities of boxing politics but also his unwavering commitment to taking on the best. The question now looms: Can these fights still be made? The landscape of boxing is ever-evolving, and while past negotiations have faltered, the door to these blockbuster matchups may not be entirely closed. The desire for these fights remains high among fans, and with Joshua's track record of facing top-tier opponents, there's hope yet that negotiations could be revived. The potential for a Joshua-Wilder or Joshua-Fury fight still carries significant weight in the boxing world, offering a tantalizing prospect for fans and fighters alike. Joshua's upcoming bout with Francis Ngannou serves as another chapter in his pursuit of greatness, a testament to his readiness to face any challenge. His approach to fighting—never underestimating an opponent—will be crucial as he prepares for Ngannou, a formidable adversary in his own right. This fight not only offers Joshua a chance to prove his mettle once again but also to gauge his standing in the heavyweight division, especially after his previous setbacks against Oleksandr Usyk. As Joshua looks ahead, his ambition within the sport remains undiminished. The possibility of fighting back in the UK after his bout with Ngannou excites not just Joshua but his legion of fans, eager to see their champion in action on home soil. His dedication to pushing himself, to exploring the limits of his ability, speaks to a fighter who is far from content with his achievements. Joshua's hunger for new challenges, for further glory, keeps him at the forefront of the heavyweight division, always in pursuit of the next great battle. The potential for fights against Wilder and Fury to be resurrected remains a beacon of hope for boxing enthusiasts. These bouts represent not just significant financial windfalls but legacy-defining moments for all involved. As the boxing world watches Joshua's next moves, the anticipation for what could still be—an epic showdown with either Wilder or Fury—continues to simmer. For now, Joshua's focus is on Ngannou, but the future holds endless possibilities, and in the world of boxing, never say never. What are your thoughts on the potential revival of Joshua's fights against Wilder and Fury? Do you believe these blockbuster matchups can still come to fruition? Share your insights and predictions below. Let's dive into the debate!

As UFC 300 loomed on the horizon, fans anticipated a monumental main event, with speculation swirling around potential matchups. Among the contenders was a showdown between reigning middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and Israel Adesanya, a bout that could have headlined the historic event. However, Adesanya recently disclosed that despite being summoned for the occasion, the fight did not materialize as du Plessis and his team declined the opportunity. In an interview on Theo Von's podcast, Adesanya shed light on the missed opportunity, stating, "They summoned me for [UFC] 300 and I was like ‘yep, let’s roll.’ But their side didn’t want it." Israel Adesanya punctuates the significance of Adesanya's revelation, emphasizing the intrigue surrounding the potential matchup and its implications for the UFC 300 main event. Adesanya speculated that du Plessis' recent bout with Sean Strickland at UFC 297, which resulted in a grueling five-round war, may have contributed to the declined offer. Despite Adesanya's willingness to compete despite injuries, du Plessis' potential injuries likely hindered his readiness for a quick turnaround in April. This missed opportunity echoes a similar circumstance in du Plessis' career, where a foot injury prevented him from facing Adesanya after securing a knockout victory over Robert Whittaker. Adesanya's subsequent loss to Strickland further complicates the middleweight title picture, setting the stage for future clashes between the top contenders. As Adesanya and du Plessis continue their respective journeys, the possibility of a showdown in Africa looms large, with both fighters expressing interest in competing on the continent. While UFC 300 may have missed out on this anticipated matchup, fans can expect the rivalry between Adesanya and du Plessis to persist, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster event in the future.

Oscar De La Hoya has expressed doubts about the likelihood of a boxing showdown between Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Jaime Munguia happening in May, citing complexities in the negotiation process. De La Hoya, who was recently in New York City to promote a fight between WBC junior welterweight champion Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia, shared his skepticism in an interview with The MMA Hour. Despite Munguia being his fighter and Alvarez's recent split with Premier Boxing Champions (PBC), De La Hoya acknowledged that Alvarez holds significant leverage in the decision-making process. “Canelo holds all the cards here – that is the problem,” De La Hoya said. “It is creating all this mess that we are living now.” The relationship between Alvarez, 33, and De La Hoya, his former longtime promoter, adds another layer of complexity. De La Hoya admitted to not having been in contact with Alvarez since the fighter left Golden Boy Promotions in 2020, highlighting the challenges in securing a matchup between Alvarez and Munguia for May 4, traditionally a date for a Cinco de Mayo fight. “Everybody wants him on their platform, whether it is DAZN or whether it is Amazon, that PBC has,” De La Hoya said. “Somehow I have to get to Canelo. I don’t know how I am going to do it – but I am going to do it.” Munguia (43-0, 34 KOs) has shown promise, most recently defeating John Ryder in January. However, his lack of experience against top-tier competition may be a factor in negotiations. De La Hoya emphasized the unpredictability of boxing negotiations, cautioning against taking anything for granted until deals are finalized. “In my 22 years of being in business, being around boxing forever, you just cannot believe anything you read, anything you see,” he said. “Until you see it on paper and it is signed and sealed, you just cannot believe it.” Follow FIGHT.TV for more interesting articles like this.

Eddie Hearn, a prominent figure in combat sports promotion, advocates for the UFC to spare no expense in bringing Conor McGregor back into the octagon, emphasizing McGregor's unparalleled ability to elevate the sport's excitement and business prospects. In a recent interview on The MMA Hour, Hearn stressed the significance of McGregor's potential return, citing the Irish superstar's undeniable impact on UFC's viewership, pay-per-view sales, and overall business vitality. Conor McGregor and UFC underscore the central focus of Hearn's message, highlighting the magnitude of McGregor's influence in the realm of mixed martial arts. While UFC CEO Dana White has expressed skepticism regarding McGregor's comeback, suggesting that McGregor is content with his financial standing, Hearn remains convinced of McGregor's desire to compete. Drawing from his extensive experience in sports promotion, Hearn emphasizes the importance of prioritizing McGregor's return, even if it means making financial concessions to secure his participation. Acknowledging McGregor's reputation as a shrewd negotiator and his status as one of the sport's biggest draws, Hearn emphasizes the intangible benefits of McGregor's presence in UFC events. Despite the challenges inherent in negotiating with McGregor, Hearn remains steadfast in his belief that McGregor's return would be a boon for the sport and the UFC brand. Ultimately, Hearn sees McGregor's potential comeback as a strategic investment in UFC's future success, echoing the sentiment that the rewards far outweigh the costs. As discussions surrounding McGregor's return continue to unfold, Hearn's advocacy serves as a reminder of the transformative impact McGregor has had on the sport and the excitement his return would generate among fans worldwide.

Naoya Inoue, the undisputed super bantamweight champion, could be heading to Australia for his next fight if he successfully defends his titles against Luis Nery. No Limit Boxing, based in Australia, is planning to extend an offer to Inoue to defend his titles against Sam Goodman, the mandatory challenger from the IBF and WBO, should he emerge victorious against Nery. Inoue's reputation as one of the world's best fighters was solidified by his stoppage victory over Stephen Fulton Jr in July 2023. George Rose, the chief executive of No Limit Boxing, believes that securing a fight with Inoue would be a significant achievement for Australian boxing and sports in general. Rose compared Inoue to Manny Pacquiao in terms of global appeal, highlighting Inoue's ability to draw large crowds and global attention to his fights. He emphasized the unique challenge that Goodman poses to Inoue, describing him as a fighter who is difficult to hit and confident in his abilities. The potential fight between Inoue and Goodman would add to the growing list of high-profile boxing events taking place in Australia, including Devin Haney's victories over George Kambosos Jr in 2022 and Vasyl Lomachenko's upcoming fight against Kambosos Jr in Perth on May 12. With Tim Tszyu set to headline against Keith Thurman on March 30 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Australian boxing is experiencing a resurgence, reminiscent of the era of Kostya Tszyu's dominance in the sport.

In what reads like a script straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster, the sports world was left agog with the revelation that Wayne Rooney, the Manchester United legend and ex-England captain, seemingly threw down the gauntlet for a boxing match against YouTube sensation KSI. This unusual challenge, emerging from the shadows of a late-night text, adds a spicy layer to the already eclectic world of celebrity boxing. Imagine the scene: It's the wee hours of the morning, and KSI's phone buzzes with a message that would make even the most seasoned of fighters raise an eyebrow. Wayne Rooney, out of work after parting ways with Birmingham City, floats the idea of stepping into the squared circle for a one-off bout against KSI. "Hi mate, what you think on me and you having a boxing fight. I think we could generate a lot of money. You up for it." The message, devoid of a question mark, adds a touch of Rooney's trademark determination, signaling he's not just asking; he's proposing a blockbuster event. The thought of Wayne Rooney trading the football pitch for a boxing ring to face KSI, a figure synonymous with the rise of influencer boxing, is nothing short of tantalizing. KSI, having already tasted victory and the adrenaline of combat in the ring, finds himself at the center of what could be a monumental clash. Rooney's message, revealed on the Sidemen podcast, hints at the potential to "sell out stadium with right support and both make good money," showcasing the crossover appeal that such a fight could have. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of speculation and excitement, Rooney's subsequent appearance on The Overlap podcast brought a dose of reality. While acknowledging the buzz around a potential boxing switch, Rooney reaffirmed his primary ambition to return to football management. His flirtation with the boxing world, facilitated by talks with KSI's influencer boxing promotion Misfits, adds a compelling chapter to his storied career but leaves fans wondering what could have been. The Rooney-KSI saga is a testament to the ever-blurring lines between sports, entertainment, and the power of social media. While the prospect of these two giants facing off in the ring remains in the realm of speculation, it underscores the limitless possibilities when worlds collide in today's digital age. What's your take on this tantalizing tease? Could a Rooney-KSI fight have rewritten the rules of celebrity boxing, or is it best left in the imagination? Dive into the comments and share your thoughts on this clash of titans!

Paulo Costa isn't mincing words when it comes to his frustrations with Khamzat Chimaev's fighting choices. The anticipated middleweight clash between the two fighters was derailed last October due to Costa's withdrawal, but now, Costa is calling out Chimaev, accusing him of avoiding challenging opponents and lacking courage. In a scathing interview with Submission Radio, Costa didn't hold back, asserting, "He needs to stop running. He needs to have balls to face me." Paulo Costa seamlessly integrates into Costa's bold statement, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry between the two fighters. Despite Chimaev's decision to face former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294, Costa remains adamant in his pursuit of a showdown with his rival. Reflecting on his recent loss to Robert Whittaker at UFC 298, Costa acknowledges that revisiting the Chimaev fight now makes sense, especially as he aims to bounce back from defeat. Looking ahead, Costa sets his sights on a potential matchup with Usman, recognizing the opportunity to redeem himself and regain momentum. Emphasizing Usman's skill set and potential move to middleweight, Costa sees the bout as a pivotal step towards reclaiming his status among the division's elite. With tensions running high and both fighters hungry for redemption, a showdown between Costa and Usman promises to deliver fireworks in the octagon. As the MMA world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in these fighters' journeys, the stage is set for a thrilling clash of titans. In the competitive landscape of mixed martial arts, where rivalries fuel excitement and determination drive success, Paulo Costa's bold callout of Khamzat Chimaev marks a pivotal moment in the middleweight division. As the countdown to their potential showdown begins, fans can expect nothing short of electrifying action inside the cage.

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones expressed confidence in a future matchup with PFL star Francis Ngannou during a recent appearance at PFL vs. Bellator in Saudi Arabia. Despite being sidelined with a torn pec sustained while preparing for a fight with Stipe Miocic last fall, Jones remains optimistic about facing Ngannou. The anticipated bout between Jones and Ngannou was initially planned for last year before Ngannou's departure from the UFC in late January to sign with the PFL, partly to pursue a career in boxing. Although both fighters are now with different promotions, there have been discussions and teases about a potential cross-promotion fight. PFL's Donn Davis has expressed interest in a cross-promoted card featuring Jones vs. Ngannou, but UFC President Dana White has dismissed the idea. Despite the challenges, Jones believes the fight will happen eventually. During the PFL vs. Bellator broadcast, Jones expressed confidence in defeating Ngannou, Miocic, and Tom Aspinall. "I feel like there’s a lot of fights that the world wants right now," Jones said. "There’s the Tom Aspinall fight that’s really massive. There’s Francis Ngannou and I, that would be really massive. Stipe, to the hardcore fans, that’s still a respectable opponent." Ngannou, who was also at the event, responded to Jones' comments, shouting, "In your dreams. You’re f*cking fat!" While Jones is recovering from injury, Ngannou is preparing for his second boxing match against Anthony Joshua on March 8th in Saudi Arabia.

In a fiery exchange that sent shockwaves through the boxing world, Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia clashed in a heated faceoff during Tuesday's press conference at the Palladium in Times Square, setting the stage for their eagerly anticipated title bout. Haney, the reigning WBC super lightweight champion and No. 7 pound-for-pound boxer according to Ring Magazine, will put his title on the line against Garcia on April 20 at the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. As tensions reached a boiling point, Garcia's fiery demeanor took center stage, with expletives flying and emotions running high. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the two fighters engaged in a war of words, each determined to assert their dominance and claim victory in the upcoming showdown. While Garcia's animated outbursts captured the spotlight, Haney remained composed, offering measured responses amidst the chaos. Despite the intense exchange, both fighters displayed unwavering confidence and determination, fueling anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying battle in the ring. Witnessing the explosive confrontation between Haney and Garcia only served to heighten anticipation for their highly anticipated clash. As the countdown to April 20 begins, fans are bracing for a showdown of epic proportions, where skill, grit, and raw emotion will collide in a spectacle worthy of the boxing world's attention. In the fast-paced world of professional boxing, where rivalries are forged and legends are born, Haney and Garcia's showdown represents a pivotal moment in their careers. With the boxing community buzzing with excitement, all eyes will be on the Barclay's Center as these two warriors step into the ring to settle the score once and for all.

Former UFC fighter Jorge Masvidal has announced his intention to end his retirement and return to professional mixed martial arts. Masvidal made the decision to retire last April after suffering a defeat to Gilbert Burns, marking his fourth consecutive loss and bringing his overall record to 35-17. Despite his mixed results in the cage, Masvidal has always been known for his ability to make an impact, both with his fighting skills and his charismatic personality. Since his retirement, Masvidal has been focused on running his own promotion. However, recent speculation has suggested that he may be considering a return to competition. In a recent interview with FanSided, Masvidal confirmed these rumors, stating, “I never just text to talk. Everything I do I back it up, 100 percent go for it. I’m definitely unretired. I’m definitely gonna hurt some people. I’m definitely gonna box this year and s—t, I just want to get in the best shape possible. Get in that cage again and give it all I got." Masvidal expressed a desire to end his career on a high note, stating, “I can’t go out on a f—king L. The more I think about it, it f—king haunts me and hurts me. So, I’m definitely coming back just to f—king rearrange somebody’s face, or faces.” Masvidal's return to the octagon is sure to generate significant interest, given his reputation as one of the sport's biggest stars. Fans will be eagerly awaiting news of his comeback fight, with speculation suggesting that an announcement could be imminent.

In the high-stakes world of boxing, where every punch can either set you on the path to glory or send you tumbling down the ranks, staying active isn't just a part of the game; it's the lifeline that keeps a fighter's career afloat. Yet, for Terence "Bud" Crawford and Gervonta "Tank" Davis, the allure of resting on their laurels after bagging hefty paychecks seems to have put a damper on their fighting spirits. Matchroom's Eddie Hearn has thrown a spotlight on this emerging trend of inactivity among boxing's elite, particularly pointing fingers at Crawford and Davis for not stepping into the ring as often as they should. As unified welterweight champion and WBA 'regular' lightweight titleholder, respectively, Crawford and Davis have shown a penchant for picking fights sparingly, much to the chagrin of fans and promoters alike. Their once voracious appetite for battle appears to be waning, with both champions now fighting just once a year. Hearn's critique comes with a heavy dose of reality, emphasizing the dangers lurking behind these strategic career pauses. Hearn's advice is straightforward yet profound: "You've got to stay active." This mantra, however, seems to have fallen on deaf ears for Crawford, who risks slipping into oblivion with his prolonged absences from the ring. The promoter's concern is not just about staying relevant but also about building a legacy that transcends the confines of time and the sport itself. Crawford's dream of a blockbuster payday fight against Canelo Alvarez hangs in the balance, undermined by his inactivity. It's a classic case of out of sight, out of mind, where the less Crawford fights, the less appealing he becomes to both fans and potential opponents. Hearn's hypothetical infusion of John D. Rockefeller's ambition into Crawford is a poignant reminder of what's at stake: not just money, but the chance to etch his name into the annals of boxing history. Gervonta Davis finds himself in a similar conundrum. Despite his undeniable talent and star power, Tank's reluctance to fight more frequently and against top-tier opponents casts a long shadow over his career. At 29, time is still on his side, but the clock is ticking, and with each passing day, the opportunity to truly capitalize on his prime years fades a little more. The message from Hearn is clear: the path to greatness is paved with persistence, not just talent. For Crawford and Davis, the time to heed this advice is now. As fans, we can only hope that they reignite their passion for the sport, stepping back into the ring with the frequency and fervor that once made them the talk of the boxing world. What do you think? Can Crawford and Davis shake off their ring rust and return to their active, dominating selves, or has the allure of easy money dulled their fighting edge? Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Eddie Hearn's latest attempt to add a blockbuster fight to the boxing calendar has hit a snag, with Gervonta Davis publicly rejecting an offer to fight Conor Benn. The crux of the matter seems to lie in the financial details, with Davis airing his grievances on X (formerly Twitter), labeling Hearn's $10 million offer, plus PPV and gate receipt upsides, as inadequate and accusing the promoter of attempting to shortchange him. Hearn's offer, laid out in what he hoped would be the start of fruitful negotiations, has instead led to a very public spat. Davis' response, sharp and unyielding, suggests a deep mistrust in the financial fairness of the proposed deal. Hearn, for his part, seems baffled by Davis' outright rejection and lack of willingness to even discuss the offer further, hinting at a possible misunderstanding or miscommunication about the potential earnings from PPV and gate receipts. This standoff isn't just about numbers; it's a glimpse into the intricate dance of boxing negotiations, where ego, reputation, and financial interests often clash. Hearn's insistence on the reasonableness of the offer and his call for a sit-down conversation points to a desire to bridge the gap. However, Davis' public dismissal of the offer as an attempt to "cheat" him out of his rightful earnings indicates a hard road ahead for any potential agreement. What's your take on the Hearn-Davis standoff? Is Davis right to be wary of the financial terms, or should he take Hearn up on his offer to discuss the deal further? Could this public negotiation tactic affect the potential for future fights? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.