Amir Khan has thrown his support behind former UFC world heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, predicting that Ngannou may fare better against Anthony Joshua than he did against Tyson Fury. Ngannou, making his professional boxing debut against WBC heavyweight champion Fury on October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, narrowly lost to Fury in a controversial split decision. However, Ngannou stunned the boxing world by knocking down Fury heavily with a long straight right hand, nearly causing a major upset in the sport. Following his performance against Fury, Ngannou received a top 10 rating by the WBC. Joshua, who has been rebuilding after consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk, is set to face Ngannou on March 8 in Saudi Arabia. The winner of this contest will be in a prime position to face the winner of the undisputed heavyweight title fight between Usyk and Tyson Fury on May 18. In an interview with the YouTube platform All Out Fighting, Khan supported his countryman to defeat Ngannou, but he believes Ngannou might find Joshua an easier target than Fury. Khan praised Joshua as a smart fighter but emphasized Ngannou's confidence and belief that he can knock out Joshua. Khan stressed the unpredictability of the heavyweight division, where one punch can change the outcome of a fight. While acknowledging Joshua as a great fighter, Khan suggested that Joshua might be easier to hit than Fury, who is known for his defensive skills. However, Khan encouraged Joshua to restore boxing's reputation following Ngannou's performance against Fury, stating that the public perception towards boxing took a hit after their fight. Khan believes Joshua has the opportunity to demonstrate that boxers are not weaker but better and stronger than MMA fighters.

Despite their rivalry in competing promotions, Jon Jones is backing Francis Ngannou in his upcoming boxing match against Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia on March 8. Ngannou, the current UFC heavyweight champion, stunned the world with his boxing debut against Tyson Fury, and he aims to continue his success against Joshua. "I'm rooting for Francis to win only because of his story, how far he’s coming in life, him being a fellow mixed martial artist," Jones expressed during the PFL vs. Bellator card. "How could you not root for Francis? Francis is a wonderful, stand-up person. I’m rooting for Francis." Jones, while supporting Ngannou, acknowledges the challenge ahead, respecting Joshua's accomplishments in the boxing world. Despite not picking Ngannou as the victor, Jones sees potential matchups in his future, including fights against interim UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. "I feel like there’s a lot of fights that the world wants right now," Jones remarked. "The Tom Aspinall fight, that’s really massive. Francis Ngannou and I would be really massive, and Stipe [Miocic] to the hardcore fans, it’s still a respectable opponent. I don’t know how the cards are going to fall." “Anthony Joshua, he’s been doing this since he’s a young boy, and I’m the type of guy that just gives respect where it’s due,” Jones said. “If I had to personally put my money on it, not that I gamble, I would put it on Anthony Joshua, but I am rooting for Francis Ngannou. Sorry, Francis.” Jones, the current UFC heavyweight champion, won the title in a dominant performance against Ciryl Gane. He remains focused on his recovery from a torn pectoral muscle and is optimistic about future fights, including a potential rematch with Miocic. While Jones gives credit to Joshua for his boxing career, he stands by his prediction of victories over Miocic, Aspinall, and Ngannou. As for Ngannou, despite not betting on him, Jones is firmly in his corner for the upcoming bout against Joshua.

Eddie Hearn's recent declarations have set the super middleweight division abuzz with the prospect of an electrifying showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga. This matchup, seemingly inevitable in Hearn's view, promises to be more than just a fight; it could very well redefine the contours of the boxing landscape. Berlanga's striking victory via a sixth-round knockout against Padraig McCrory, although commendable, has ignited discussions and debates, especially regarding the selection of McCrory as an opponent. Critics and boxing aficionados alike are questioning whether McCrory, criticized for his lack of skill comparable to the division's elite, was the right stepping stone for Berlanga on his path to a title shot. The underlying skepticism regarding McCrory's role as a gatekeeper to Berlanga highlights broader concerns about the matchmaking process in contemporary boxing. Critics argue that facing a more formidable opponent, such as WBA 'regular' super middleweight champion David Morrell Jr., would have offered a truer test of Berlanga's readiness to take on a titan like Canelo. Morrell Jr.'s openness to the fight accentuates a missed opportunity to bolster Berlanga's claim through a battle with a more universally acclaimed adversary. Despite this, Hearn's commendation of Berlanga's performance and his assurance of a future clash with Canelo—be it sooner or later—underscores the significant promotional support behind Berlanga. Hearn's depiction of Berlanga as a fearless contender ready to face Canelo showcases the promising nature of this potential matchup. As the boxing world awaits further developments, the conversation about Berlanga's qualifications and the sport's matchmaking mechanisms persists. While opinions on Berlanga's victory over McCrory and its sufficiency for a title shot against Canelo vary, Hearn's determination to realize this fight signals a robust promotional effort to stage what could be a landmark event. The anticipated bout between Canelo and Berlanga introduces an exciting chapter to the narrative of the super middleweight division. This story, interwoven with themes of legacy, skill, and promotional strategy, keeps fans and pundits on the edge of their seats, keen to see if Berlanga's journey leads to a historic encounter with Canelo Alvarez.

Brian Ortega faced adversity from the outset at UFC Mexico City, but his resilience and determination ultimately led to a remarkable comeback victory over Yair Rodriguez in the co-main event. Ortega, seeking redemption after a previous bout with Rodriguez ended in a freak shoulder injury, encountered another setback when he rolled his ankle during his introduction. Despite Rodriguez's early dominance with strikes, including a left hook that dropped Ortega, the resilient fighter weathered the storm and turned the tide with his grappling prowess. After surviving Rodriguez's onslaught, Ortega capitalized on a grappling exchange, ultimately securing an arm-triangle choke in the third round, forcing Rodriguez to tap out. The victory marked Ortega's return to the octagon after nearly two years, instantly propelling him back into the featherweight title conversation. Reflecting on his victory, Ortega attributed his success to his dedication and training regimen. "I've been training super hard. I got my life together. I'm not being an idiot anymore. This is what we did. We trained non-stop for three months," Ortega stated. The fight showcased Ortega's unwavering determination and evolution as a fighter, earning him a well-deserved victory and placing him back among the elite in the featherweight division. As for his future plans, Ortega remained cryptic, stating, "We'll see. I see the boss Dana [White] right there. We'll talk later." Ortega's triumph at UFC Mexico City serves as a testament to his perseverance and skill, solidifying his status as one of the top contenders in the featherweight division and setting the stage for compelling future matchups in the UFC.

In the high-stakes world of boxing, where legends loom large and egos even larger, a new chapter unfolds in the ongoing saga of "The Best Ever" (TBE). This time, the narrative takes a twist as Mike Tyson, the once undisputed heavyweight champion, audaciously claims Floyd Mayweather's long-held moniker for himself. With a new jacket emblazoned with "The Best Ever" on his back, Tyson has thrown down the gauntlet in a battle of legacies that transcends the confines of the ring. Floyd Mayweather, a pugilist par excellence whose career is unparalleled in modern boxing, has for over a decade proclaimed himself as TBE. A claim backed by an immaculate record, Mayweather's assertion is not without merit. Yet, in a move that's equal parts audacity and homage, Tyson's appropriation of the slogan adds a compelling layer to the debate on boxing's greatest. Mayweather, ever the competitor, is unlikely to view Tyson's sartorial statement lightly. The timing is particularly poignant, coinciding with Mayweather's recent reassertion of his status above legends such as Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, and Sugar Ray Leonard. In a sport that venerates its history as much as it does its champions, these comparisons are not made lightly. Speaking on The Pivot Podcast, Mayweather underscored his unique place in boxing history, not just as a fighter but as a phenomenon. "They’re boxers, I’m a box office," Mayweather stated, emphasizing his unparalleled ability to generate revenue, captivate audiences, and redefine the economics of the sport. Yet, Tyson has never shied away from challenging Mayweather's TBE claim. Citing the legendary careers of fighters like Sugar Ray Robinson, who had a staggering 78-fight winning streak after his 40th bout, and Julio Cesar Chavez, who was 87-0 before his first loss, Tyson underscores a broader perspective on greatness—one that encompasses more than just a flawless record. The heart of this debate lies in the criteria for greatness. Is it the undefeated record and financial prowess that define Mayweather's career, or is it the pioneering spirit and raw dominance of fighters like Tyson and Chavez that set the standard? Tyson's role in popularizing Pay Per View, paving the way for the lucrative spectacles that Mayweather would later headline, adds another dimension to this discourse. As the boxing world deliberates on the true meaning of "The Best Ever," this rivalry between Tyson and Mayweather transcends personal achievement, inviting fans and historians alike to reflect on the metrics of greatness in the sport. Whether through financial success, in-ring achievements, or cultural impact, the quest for TBE status is a reminder of boxing's rich tapestry of stories, personalities, and unparalleled athletic feats.

Andy Cruz showcased his talents in just his third professional fight, going the distance over 10 rounds against Brayan Zamarripa and securing a dominant victory. Cruz, a former Olympic champion who triumphed over Keyshawn Davis in the Tokyo Games final, hinted at a potential future clash with Davis, emphasizing that the decision rests with Davis to prove himself as one of the best. "Whether we face each other completely depends upon Keyshawn Davis," Cruz stated through a translator. "I'm progressing. I'm doing well. I'm doing what I can to do best but he has to go on and show he's one of the best so it completely depends on him as to whether we will face each other in the future." The Cuban southpaw delivered a masterful performance against Zamarripa, earning a unanimous 100-90 victory on all scorecards. Cruz expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting Zamarripa's survival-focused approach. "I'm very happy," Cruz said. "Because we achieved the overall objective, which was to win. I noticed from the start it was a question of time and I also noted from the beginning that he was there to survive." Looking ahead, Cruz is eager to continue his rapid progression in the professional ranks. With his sights set on the April 20 Brooklyn card headlined by Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia, Cruz aims to make a statement and move quickly towards a world title shot. "I want to take gigantic steps, with respect to other boxers," Cruz emphasized. "I want to move very quickly given the experience I've had in the amateurs so what I want to do is progress as quickly as possible, to show I'm ready for big things in the professional game." Cruz's defensive prowess also caught the attention of WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson, who praised Cruz's elite defense during the fight. Cruz welcomed the recognition, expressing his desire to become a legend in the sport and prove his versatility and skill in the professional arena. "I wanted to come into the professional game and show I can box at any distance," Cruz asserted. "I'm very versatile and I wanted to show the doubters I can go on and do good things in my professional career." As Cruz continues his journey in the professional ranks, boxing fans eagerly anticipate his future matchups and potential showdowns with the sport's elite, including a possible clash with Keyshawn Davis that could further solidify Cruz's status as a rising star in boxing.

The world of heavyweight boxing stands at a precipice, with the much-anticipated bout between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk teetering on the brink of becoming one of the sport's greatest what-ifs. Having already been postponed twice, the potential third cancellation of this fight has fans on edge, questioning the legacies of both fighters and the integrity of the sport's matchmaking. Tyson Fury, known as much for his larger-than-life personality as for his pugilistic prowess, finds himself in a peculiar position. After withdrawing from the scheduled fight on February 17 due to a significant cut sustained in sparring, the WBC Heavyweight Champion's commitment to facing Usyk has been put under the microscope. The previous cancellation in December, following a bruising encounter with Francis Ngannou, has only compounded fan frustration and skepticism. In a recent development, Turki AlalShikh, a significant figure in the boxing world, has laid down the gauntlet, imposing a $10 million fine on either fighter if they fail to meet for their next scheduled bout. This move has added a new layer of pressure and expectation, ensuring that the stakes for Fury and Usyk are higher than ever. John Fury, Tyson's father, has been quick to dispel any rumors of another withdrawal, asserting that his son will indeed step into the ring with Usyk. "People want to see Tyson vs Usyk, and Tyson will not be pulling out. I’ll tell you that now," he stated confidently. Despite these assurances, the shadow of doubt lingers, not least from Usyk's camp. The Ukrainian's former coach, James Ali Bashir, has voiced concerns over Fury's preparation habits and the risk of the Briton's cut reopening, suggesting that a further delay to the fight might be prudent. Fury's history of withdrawing from fights, including a failed rematch with Wladimir Klitschko and a hiatus from the sport due to mental health issues, has not helped his cause. The severity of his recent injury has created a race against time for recovery, with the specter of previous in-ring cuts haunting the preparations. For Usyk, the situation is equally fraught. With a clause in his contract allowing him to face Filip Hrgovic should Fury withdraw, the Ukrainian faces a dilemma of waiting for Fury or moving on to ensure his own career progression doesn't stall. The Fury vs. Usyk saga is more than just a series of unfortunate events; it's a litmus test for the integrity of heavyweight boxing. Fans, already weary of the politics and machinations that too often mar the sport, are clamoring for clarity, action, and, most importantly, the fight itself. As both camps navigate the treacherous waters of boxing promotion, injuries, and contractual obligations, the legacy of both fighters hangs in the balance. A third cancellation would not only disappoint fans but could also cast a long shadow over Fury's reputation and the potential for what could have been one of boxing's modern classics. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Fury and Usyk can finally settle their score in the ring or if this matchup will join the annals of boxing's greatest unrealized bouts. For now, fans, promoters, and the fighters themselves wait with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that brings closure to this saga and delivers the blockbuster fight the boxing world has been eagerly anticipating.

Edgar Berlanga has broken his knockout dry spell, securing a sixth-round stoppage victory over Padraig McCrory. This marks Berlanga's first knockout win in five fights and over three years, reigniting talks of a potential showdown with boxing elites like David Benavidez, Jaime Munguia, or Jermall Charlo in the highly coveted Canelo Alvarez sweepstakes. Berlanga's career has been a rollercoaster ride, starting with an impressive 16-fight knockout streak followed by five consecutive distance wins. The Puerto Rican fighter knew that a decision victory over McCrory would likely dim his chances of facing Alvarez. However, Berlanga displayed a calculated approach from the outset, showcasing patience and defensive skills in the early rounds. "I wanted to see what I’m receiving," Berlanga explained post-fight. "I didn’t just want to be an offensive fighter. I want to work on my defensive side first." Despite McCrory's resilience and fighting spirit, especially praised by Berlanga, the Irish fighter struggled to keep up with Berlanga's pace and power. Berlanga's strategic elbow strikes and body shots further hindered McCrory's efforts, eventually leading to the decisive sixth round. The climax came when Berlanga unleashed a flurry of punches, driving McCrory to the ropes. A devastating right cross landed flush on McCrory's jaw, sending him to the canvas. Though McCrory managed to rise to his knees by the count of seven, his corner threw in the towel, conceding defeat to Berlanga. "It feels amazing," Berlanga expressed, emphasizing the importance of adding another knockout to his record. When asked about a potential matchup with Alvarez in May, Berlanga responded confidently, "1000 percent." Promoter Eddie Hearn echoed Berlanga's sentiments, hinting at a possible Berlanga-Alvarez showdown later this year. "Maybe there is one more [fight for Berlanga in the interim], but if the call came, he wouldn’t back down. I believe you’ll see Canelo against Berlanga this year, in May or September." With Berlanga's return to knockout form, the boxing world eagerly anticipates whether he will indeed be the next challenger to face the legendary Canelo Alvarez.

With Ryan Bader laid low in 21 seconds, Renan Ferreira issues a thunderous challenge to Francis Ngannou, setting the stage for a colossal showdown. In a seismic shift of power at the pinnacle of heavyweight combat, Renan Ferreira etched his name in the annals of MMA history with a breathtaking victory over Ryan Bader in the main event of PFL vs. Bellator, leaving spectators in awe of his sheer dominance. The reigning PFL heavyweight champion wasted no time in asserting his authority, unleashing a ferocious onslaught that culminated in a devastating right hand, dispatching Bader in a mere 21 seconds. It was a display of raw power and precision that underscored Ferreira's status as a force to be reckoned with in the unforgiving realm of the heavyweight division. With Bader left sprawled on the canvas, Ferreira seized the moment, unleashing a relentless barrage of punches that left the referee with no choice but to halt the contest, signaling the dawn of a new era in the heavyweight landscape. Ferreira's thunderous victory reverberated throughout the arena as he turned his gaze towards the future, issuing a resounding challenge to none other than Francis Ngannou, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion. With eyes set on the ultimate prize, Ferreira proclaimed, "I am the real problem out here. I am the record breaker. I am the record-setter. Francis, where you at? I'm waiting for you. Let's go, let's do this." Standing tall at 6-foot-8-inches with a colossal wingspan at his disposal, Ferreira's imposing stature is matched only by his unwavering determination to conquer all who stand in his path. As the MMA world braces itself for the impending collision between two titans, Ferreira's challenge to Ngannou serves as a clarion call for a showdown of epic proportions. With the stage set for a clash of heavyweight titans, Ferreira stands poised at the precipice of greatness, ready to etch his name alongside the legends of the sport.

Surviving the storm, Johnny Eblen secures a razor-close split decision victory over Impa Kasanganay in a thrilling co-main event clash. In a heart-pounding showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Johnny Eblen showcased his resilience and determination, emerging victorious in a hard-fought battle against Impa Kasanganay at the PFL vs. Bellator event. From the outset, Eblen faced adversity as Kasanganay unleashed a relentless barrage of strikes, culminating in a precarious knockdown in the second round that put Eblen's undefeated record in jeopardy. Yet, true to his champion's spirit, Eblen weathered the storm, summoning his inner strength to weather the onslaught and mount a comeback. Despite the setback, Eblen's unwavering resolve shone through as he refused to succumb to defeat, relentlessly pursuing his opponent with a relentless onslaught of pressure, wrestling, and grappling prowess. With each passing round, Eblen's dominance became increasingly apparent, his indomitable spirit driving him forward in the face of adversity. In the end, the judges' scorecards reflected the grueling nature of the contest, with two out of three ruling in favor of Eblen, securing his 15th consecutive victory and preserving his unblemished record. Reflecting on the arduous battle, Eblen acknowledged the challenge he faced, remarking, "It was a close fight. Second round, he caught me. I had to f***** show up and be a champion. Honestly, I was just surviving for a little bit. He caught me pretty good." As Eblen sets his sights on future endeavors, his triumph serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering determination to overcome adversity in pursuit of greatness.

In a mesmerizing display of skill and tenacity, Jason Jackson left a trail of destruction in his wake at the recent PFL vs. Bellator event, firmly asserting Bellator's dominance over its rival promotion. The reigning Bellator welterweight champion showcased his unrivaled prowess as he dismantled Ray Cooper III in a feature catchweight bout that left spectators in awe. From the opening bell, Jackson, aptly nicknamed "The Ass-Kicking Machine," unleashed a relentless assault on Cooper, targeting his opponent's legs with a barrage of punishing kicks. With each strike, Cooper's defenses crumbled, unable to withstand the ferocity of Jackson's onslaught. It was a masterclass in precision and power, as Jackson systematically broke down his adversary with surgical precision. As the bout progressed into the second round, Jackson's dominance reached its zenith, culminating in a TKO stoppage that solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division. The victory not only extended Jackson's remarkable winning streak to eight consecutive triumphs but also served as a resounding testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. However, amidst the euphoria of victory, Jackson wasted no time in issuing a challenge to his next potential opponent. With eyes set on Cedric Doumbe, the rising star of PFL, Jackson boldly proclaimed his desire for a showdown, igniting the flames of anticipation for what promises to be a clash of titans. Doumbe, poised to face Baysangur Chamsoudinov at PFL Europe in March, now finds himself in Jackson's crosshairs, as the stage is set for a showdown of epic proportions. As Jackson sets his sights on the next chapter of his storied career, the welterweight division braces itself for a seismic shift in the landscape of combat sports.

In a colossal collision of titans at the PFL vs. Bellator showdown, Vadim Nemkov resurfaced in the heavyweight realm with an emphatic statement of supremacy. The Russian juggernaut, making a triumphant return after nearly a decade, showcased his prowess against none other than the 2021 PFL heavyweight titleholder, Bruno Cappelozza, in a spectacle that left spectators awe-inspired. Saturday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, witnessed Nemkov's seamless transition as he seamlessly maneuvered through weight classes, reclaiming his spot in the heavyweight division after relinquishing his Bellator light heavyweight crown. The anticipation was palpable, and Nemkov didn't disappoint, delivering a performance that etched his name in the annals of combat sports history. Despite the weight shift, Nemkov's agility remained unparalleled, evading Cappelozza's advances with lightning speed while seamlessly integrating his grappling finesse. The Brazilian powerhouse found himself ensnared in Nemkov's web, unable to decipher the Russian's calculated onslaught. As the bout progressed into the second round, Nemkov's tenacity soared to new heights, culminating in a decisive takedown followed by a relentless pursuit for submission. With precision akin to a maestro, Nemkov orchestrated a symphony of domination, seamlessly transitioning from mount to side control, locking in an inescapable arm-triangle choke. Cappelozza, trapped in Nemkov's vice-like grip, found himself teetering on the precipice of consciousness, succumbing to the inevitable embrace of slumber. The aftermath saw Nemkov ascend to a staggering record of 17-2 (1 NC), his triumphant cry reverberating through the arena as he laid claim to the coveted "Super Belt." Yet, amidst the jubilation, Nemkov's hunger for glory remained unquenched as he set his sights on the ultimate prize, a title shot that would solidify his reign atop the heavyweight hierarchy. In the wake of Nemkov's masterclass, the echoes of his victory resound far and wide, a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering pursuit of greatness.