The relationship between heavyweight boxing legends and champions is often as intriguing as the fights, especially in the case of Lennox Lewis, the last undisputed heavyweight champion, and Anthony Joshua, a two-time unified world heavyweight champion, who have a complicated relationship and history. Lewis, known for his tactical skills and legendary status in boxing, has criticised and supported Joshua. His recent comments about Joshua's March 8 fight with Francis Ngannou as a'spectacle,' have fueled debates. Lewis argued that Joshua's win over Otto Wallin and his subsequent fight with crossover MMA star Ngannou are not enough to challenge for the heavyweight titles again. Lewis believes boxing's traditional paths to championship glory are sacred. The conversation became personal when a fan accused Lewis of hating Joshua for not signing a promotional deal. Lewis denied this by citing his past praise for Joshua, distancing himself from any perceived animosity. He replied, "Yeah... so much hate." Stop believing Eddie Hearn and look around. "I only became a 'hater' after I criticised them for not making the Wilder fight for UNDISPUTED when they had the chance," shows his dedication to the sport. Lewis also highlighted Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter since his Olympic success. Hearn believes Joshua's fight against Ngannou will help him reclaim all four heavyweight titles. Lewis considered the winner of the Joshua-Ngannou co-main event, Zhilei Zhang-Joseph Parker, more deserving of a title shot. This view emphasises Lewis's preference for merit-based opportunities over spectacular matches. Lewis and Joshua represent boxing's complex relationship of respect, competition, and legacy. Lewis has been critical but fair of Joshua's career, but his comments highlight the high standards and expectations set by sports' elite. Legends like Lennox Lewis will shape perceptions and guide the next generation of heavyweight champions as the division evolves. But do you think Lewis is just a hater, or does he have reason? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

In the ever-evolving landscape of mixed martial arts, the battle for supremacy extends beyond the octagon. PFL and Donn Davis are reveling in a victorious week, marked by the announcement of a groundbreaking PFL vs. Bellator supercard set for Feb. 24 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The news rippled through the MMA community just a day after reports emerged about the UFC's planned debut event in Saudi Arabia facing a postponement to June. The cause? Alleged discontent from Saudi officials over the card's perceived lack of quality fights. Donn Davis, the man behind PFL's strategic moves, didn't hesitate to throw a punch. Speaking candidly on Ariel Helwani's The MMA Hour, Davis suggested a connection between the UFC's canceled March 2 event and PFL's blockbuster announcement: “I don’t think it’s any coincidence that the UFC March 2 card was canceled the day before our fight [announcement]. Those who know MMA said, ‘That is not a mega-event. That is not worthy of being hosted in Saudi Arabia. That is a poor fight-quality card the UFC put forth on March 2.’” Davis clarified that he isn't questioning the UFC's ability to assemble a stellar card but implies that PFL's focus on delivering top-tier events sets them apart: “Could UFC load up a card and have a mega-card? They could! Do they do it that often? They don’t. We’re going to do it every time we do it.” With 2024 poised as a transformative year for PFL following the acquisition of Bellator, the PFL vs. Bellator supercard signals the promotion's intent to claim a "co-leader" role in MMA. Davis expressed his delight at the enthusiastic fan reception, emphasizing PFL's commitment to offering something distinct in the MMA universe. “All we’re trying to tell fans is, MMA is big. There are 650 million fans out there. UFC puts on a great product. We put on a different and unique, great product. Check it out. It’s not either-or. This ain’t Coke or Pepsi. PFL is doing a whole different thing for fans and fighters, and I think yesterday, people started to get that vibe,” Davis remarked. In this ever-shifting MMA landscape, PFL, under the strategic guidance of Donn Davis, is making waves, challenging the status quo, and promising fight enthusiasts a Supercard spectacle that transcends expectations.

In the dynamic world of combat sports, where boundaries are constantly pushed, Cris Cyborg is setting the stage for a grand finale to her illustrious career. The former Bellator featherweight champion is not merely seeking fights; she's in pursuit of the biggest, most iconic showdowns possible. And at the top of her list is none other than boxing sensation Claressa Shields. As Cyborg gears up for a six-round, 154-pound boxing match against Kelsey Wickstrum at Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, California, the prospect of facing Shields, who recently named her as a dream MMA opponent, adds an extra layer of intrigue to her final chapter. In a recent interview with MMA Junkie Radio, Cyborg expressed her openness to the idea of a multi-faceted showdown with Shields. "I think it can be good. We can do one boxing and one MMA," Cyborg shared. "I think it'll be nice. I think the fans would like it. With much respect, Claressa is the GOAT in boxing. She's the best in boxing, but for me, it's nice." The convergence of PFL and Bellator under the same umbrella opens up new possibilities, making cross-promotional fights like these a reality. Shields, with her return to the cage against Kelsey DeSantis at the inaugural PFL vs. Bellator event on Feb. 24 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stands as a prime candidate for a historic matchup with Cyborg. Cyborg, who has etched her name in the history books with titles in major MMA organizations, is focused on fights that will captivate fans' imaginations. Whether it's against Shields, Kayla Harrison, or Larissa Pacheco, Cyborg is driven by the desire to create moments that will live on in combat sports lore. "For me, I want to complete 20 years fighting," Cyborg stated. "I'm going to be 19 now, and I want to be doing the biggest fights. If it's going to be in boxing or MMA, but I want to do the biggest fights in both." As the clock ticks towards Cyborg's 20-year milestone, the prospect of a clash with Shields in both boxing and MMA adds an exciting twist to the narrative of two formidable athletes willing to test their skills in multiple realms.

In the ever-unpredictable world of mixed martial arts, UFC Fight Night 236 has hit a snag, leaving fans and fighters alike eagerly awaiting a replacement for a marquee featherweight clash. Lerone Murphy's anticipated bout against Dan Ige at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on Feb. 10 has been derailed due to an undisclosed injury, confirmed by a source after a report from Violent Money TV. The matchup between the No. 13-ranked Ige (17-7) and the undefeated No. 14-ranked Murphy (13-0-1) promised fireworks, making it a highly anticipated showdown. The two fighters, realizing the nature of their sport, exchanged well wishes on social media, acknowledging the unpredictable twists that come with the fight game. As the news broke, Ige took to Instagram Stories with a simple yet profound question: "Who's it gonna be?" The 32-year-old featherweight, aiming for a triumphant return after a unanimous decision loss to Bryce Mitchell in September, is determined to keep his February fight date intact, especially with the impending arrival of his child in March. While Murphy mends and recalibrates, fight enthusiasts are left wondering who will step up to face the resilient Ige. With his eyes set on redemption after a challenging 2023, where he secured wins over Damon Jackson and Nate Landwehr but faced a setback against Mitchell, Ige is eager for an opponent who will keep the momentum alive. For Murphy, who had hoped to kickstart 2024 with a bang after decision victories in 2023, this delay becomes an unexpected hurdle. As the UFC featherweight division witnesses this sudden twist of fate, fight fans are left in suspense, eagerly anticipating the announcement of Ige's new adversary and the revival of the thrilling featherweight clash originally scheduled for UFC Fight Night 236.

In recent years, there has been a surge in interest in boxing as a form of fitness training. Whether you're an aspiring boxer or simply looking for a challenging workout, boxing training offers a unique blend of cardio, strength, and agility training. But can you do boxing training at home? The answer is yes, with the right equipment and guidance, you can create an effective boxing workout routine in the comfort of your own home. Here's how: Space and Equipment: The first thing you'll need is enough space to move around comfortably. Clear out a designated area in your home, such as a garage or spare room, where you can move freely without obstacles. As for equipment, you'll need a few essential items: Boxing Gloves: Invest in a pair of quality boxing gloves that provide adequate wrist support and padding. Hand Wraps: These are essential for protecting your hands and wrists during training sessions. Heavy Bag or Punching Bag: A heavy bag is ideal for practicing your punches and building strength. If space is limited, a freestanding punching bag can be a good alternative. Skipping Rope: A skipping rope is excellent for improving footwork and cardiovascular endurance. Basic Techniques: Before you start throwing punches, it's essential to learn the basic boxing techniques: Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your non-dominant foot in front. Jab: This is a quick, straight punch thrown with your lead hand. Cross: A powerful punch thrown with your rear hand, using your body's rotation for added force. Hooks and Uppercuts: These are curved punches thrown from the side (hooks) or underneath (uppercuts) to target the opponent's body or head. Warm-Up and Cool Down: Like any workout, a proper warm-up and cool down are essential to prevent injuries and improve performance. Start with a few minutes of light cardio, such as jumping jacks or jogging in place, to raise your heart rate. After your workout, take some time to stretch your muscles and cool down gradually. Training Drills: Once you have the basics down, you can incorporate various training drills into your routine: Shadow Boxing: Practice your punches and footwork in front of a mirror, focusing on form and technique. Bag Work: Use the heavy bag to practice combinations and power punches. Pad Work: If you have a training partner or coach, pad work drills can simulate sparring and improve your accuracy and timing. Conditioning Exercises: Include exercises like burpees, planks, and squat jumps to improve your overall fitness and endurance. Safety Considerations: While boxing training at home can be a great way to stay fit, safety should always be a priority. Ensure that your training area is free from hazards, and always use proper protective gear, especially when hitting the heavy bag. If you're new to boxing, consider seeking guidance from a certified boxing coach to learn proper technique and avoid injuries. Boxing training at home is not only possible but can also be an effective way to improve your fitness and learn valuable self-defense skills. With the right equipment, space, and guidance, you can create a challenging and rewarding boxing workout routine in the comfort of your own home. Remember to start slowly, focus on proper technique, and always prioritize safety.

Surprisingly, "KingRy" Ryan Garcia has once again sparked controversy in the boxing world by declining a fight with Jose Ramirez, the former unified lightweight champion. The decision, which was made public via Garcia's social media accounts, has left both matchmakers and fans feeling shocked and frustrated. Just one day earlier, famed promoter Oscar De La Hoya hinted to supporters that this highly anticipated fight might happen, implying that a deal was nearly finalised. Garcia's flat rejection, though, has now crushed these dreams. This rejection comes after Rolando "Rolly" Romero, the 140-pound WBA champion, was fired by Garcia because, according to De La Hoya, Romero "priced himself out" of a match against Garcia. Ryan Garcia's most recent rejection seems to fit into a larger pattern of avoidance. Notably, De La Hoya was keen to set up a rematch between Garcia and WBC light welterweight champion Devin Haney, but Garcia declined it. There are concerns about Garcia's willingness to interact with elite opponents in light of these persistent rejections. De La Hoya appears to run into opposition whenever he tries to further Garcia's career. Garcia's selectiveness is interpreted by some as a calculated career move and by others as a fear of taking on strong opponents. Garcia's reluctance is especially puzzling given his $30 million payday from his previous fight against Gervonta Davis, which catapulted him to stardom and appeared to pave the way for more elite bouts. The Future Is Still Uncertain. Now that Haney and Ramirez are out of the picture, curiosity about Garcia's potential opponent for the future is growing. Floyd Mayweather Jr. was the one who first raised the possibility of a fight between Ryan Garcia and Rolando "Rolly" Romero. However, even this matchup seems unlikely given that Romero reportedly has excessive financial demands. Garcia may have felt that declining a matchup with Jose Ramirez was the right decision. Former WBO and WBC 140-pound champion Ramirez poses a serious threat. He may be too advanced for Garcia at this point in his career, but he is generally considered as one of the best in the division. Garcia's performance against Oscar Duarte in December of last year revealed weaknesses that a more experienced fighter like Ramirez would probably take advantage of. Ryan Garcia's professional path is still erratic and contentious. His propensity to turn down elite opponents annoys supporters and casts doubt on his ability to compete in the sport in the future. The boxing world is excitedly awaiting KingRy's next move, but it remains to be seen who he will face next in the ring and whether the match will ultimately live up to his and the community's expectations. Ryan Garcia's recent decisions regarding potential fights have sparked a fierce debate within the boxing community. His refusal to face Devin Haney, followed by claims that Rolando 'Rolly' Romero priced himself out, and now a straightforward no to Jose Ramirez, has led many to label him as one of the biggest 'duckers' in boxing history. This section examines these claims and the surrounding controversy. Garcia's decision to bypass a fight with Haney, despite its potential significance, suggests a strategic career move to some, but to others, it's a clear sign of avoidance. The question arises: was the Haney fight not lucrative or prestigious enough for Garcia? Or did it pose a risk he was unwilling to take? The claim that Romero priced himself out of a fight with Garcia is another contentious point. Critics argue that Garcia, despite his social media fame and previous high-paying bouts, lacks the draw power to justify such a claim. They suggest that using financial demands as a reason to avoid fights is a weak excuse, especially when it becomes a recurrent theme. Garcia's outright rejection of a fight with Ramirez has added fuel to the fire. Critics point out that if Garcia's previous decisions could be given the benefit of the doubt, this latest refusal seems less justifiable. Ramirez, with his impressive record, would have been a significant challenge for Garcia, and avoiding this fight adds to the narrative of him being a 'serial ducker.' Garcia's decisions have not only impacted his standing among boxing aficionados but also influenced the online discourse. Numerous supporters defend his choices, often clashing with those who accuse him of harming the sport's integrity. This polarization has led to a toxic environment in some online communities, with accusations of trolling and unwarranted defense of Garcia's actions. Some argue that Garcia's narrative of opponents pricing themselves out doesn't hold up under scrutiny. They question his marketability and draw power, suggesting that he is not in a position to make such claims credibly. This line of criticism paints Garcia as a boxer more focused on safe matches and financial gain than on proving his prowess against top-tier opponents. Ryan Garcia's career is at a crossroads, with his choices heavily scrutinized and his credibility in the ring questioned. The pattern of avoiding fights with high-profile boxers like Haney, Romero, and Ramirez paints a picture of a boxer who may be more cautious about his career trajectory than previously thought. Whether this is a result of strategic decision-making or an indication of a deeper reluctance to face challenging opponents remains a hotly debated topic. As the boxing world watches, the pressure mounts on Garcia to make a move that will either redeem his reputation or confirm the criticisms of his detractors. But let us know what you think in the comments below!

Former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov has officially relinquished his title as he transitions to the heavyweight division, confirmed by a Bellator official. The decision to move up in weight was not taken lightly by Nemkov, who cited the increasing difficulty of cutting weight as he gets older. In an interview back in August, Nemkov expressed his comfort at a higher weight, stating, "I feel less strong and dangerous at 103kg. It’s not the same as I am at 106-108kg." He sees the move as a new challenge and an opportunity to pursue another title. Despite his departure from the light heavyweight division, Nemkov's legacy remains strong. He was widely regarded as one of the top light heavyweights outside the UFC and boasts an impressive 12-fight winning streak. Nemkov's next challenge will be on February 24 at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champions pay-per-view event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he is set to face off against Bruno Cappelozza, the 2021 PFL heavyweight champion.

Alalshikh's recent proclamation signifies a pivotal change for Saudi boxing, highlighting a renewed focus on its origins and genuine skill. Despite personal adversities, his unwavering commitment to this endeavor reveals his ambition to not only enhance boxing but also to commemorate its authentic spirit within Saudi Arabia. Under Alalshikh's guidance, Saudi Arabia has risen as a formidable force in boxing, staging events like Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou and uniting heavyweights Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder. The country's investment in the sport is both bold and calculated, with plans to host bouts such as Fury vs. Usyk and Joshua vs. Ngannou. In an interview with DAZN, Alalshikh articulated his vision for boxing in Saudi Arabia: "No YouTuber fights again. I want fighters. This is what I support. In my heart, I want fighters." His statement clearly prioritizes authentic boxing talent over internet sensations. This perspective has implications for influencer boxers, especially in light of KSI's rescinded promotional license and the investigation into Paul's promotion company. Alalshikh has delineated an array of dream matches for 2024, underscoring his commitment to elite boxing. Among these are anticipated fights between Jai Opetaia and the victor of Dimitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbeiv, and a bout featuring Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney. These events, set to occur in Saudi Arabia, underscore the nation's emergence as a boxing powerhouse. His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Authority for Entertainment, has imposed a ban on influencer boxing in Saudi Arabia, affirming the nation's allegiance to conventional boxing. This shift in the boxing entertainment landscape is rooted in a profound respect for the sport's storied history and its true professionals. Alalshikh's announcement arrives at a time when influencer boxing, propelled by social media influencers like Jake Paul and KSI, has seen a surge in popularity and pay-per-view revenue. However, Alalshikh favors seasoned fighters over YouTube personalities. Alalshikh's devotion to boxing is both a professional and personal matter. Despite facing health challenges, his determination to fulfill his mission is driven by deep respect for his monarch and homeland, as well as a personal aspiration to see his dreams come to fruition. His efforts have garnered him admiration in the boxing world from key industry figures. Saudi Arabia's recent involvement in boxing, spearheaded by Alalshikh, transcends the mere organization of high-profile matches. It represents a vision that merges national pride with a profound appreciation for the sport. Alalshikh attributes the success of this ambitious endeavor to the support of the King and Crown Prince. Alalshikh's vision for Saudi boxing is a tribute to the sport's timeless spirit, not just for entertainment value. Despite facing personal health challenges, his dedication to boxing shows a deep commitment to the sport's global enrichment as well as its growth in Saudi Arabia. This strategy speaks to a deeper ethos that goes beyond the transient appeal of contemporary celebrity, reflecting a respect for tradition and a quest of excellence. Under Alalshikh's leadership, Saudi Arabia is positioned to become a global hub for boxing fans with a focus on elite contests and smart investments. His efforts stand for more than just the planning of big-name bouts; they also stand for the revitalization of the fundamental principles of the sport. Saudi Arabia's continued hosting of major boxing events is evidence of Alalshikh's vision of a world in which boxing's heritage and integrity are honoured, and a new generation of boxing enthusiasts and athletes alike hold the sport in high regard for its beautiful science. Is the a good step in the right direction for boxing or can the influencer world benefit the traditional? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

UFC champion Sean Strickland has once again made waves with his controversial comments, this time expressing his reservations about women's mixed martial arts. Known for his outspoken nature, Strickland's latest remarks have stirred up debate as he gears up for UFC 297. In a recent media appearance leading up to his upcoming fight, Strickland didn't hold back when discussing various topics. “Here’s the thing guys – WNBA, let’s just be honest. I’m not gonna be offensive when I say this. WNBA, NBA. Who watches what? Who makes more money? Women’s MMA, sure, have women’s MMA, have it a f***ing thing. I don’t like to watch it. I don’t think most people like to watch it. If the females in MMA were to separate from male MMA, no-one is gonna watch this s***. No-one wants to watch this s***. It is what it is, man. I don’t know what to f***ing tell you, dude. “Do you want to watch a f***ing sports car race a f***ing Honda Civic? No, you wanna watch a f***ing sports car. There is a vast difference between men and women. If you take this weak little f***ing Canadian sitting next to you, he could probably beat up f***ing Raquel Pennington. Any one of you f***s could probably beat our co-main event in a fight. I’m not saying you can’t sit there and f***ing enjoy it, but I don’t wanna go see two little f***ing cats fight. I wanna see lions fight.” Notably, he addressed a journalist with a passionate rant and also shared his thoughts on women's MMA in response to a question about sharing the card with Raquel Pennington, who had previously picked against him in a bout. Strickland's comments have once again placed him in the spotlight, showcasing his willingness to speak his mind regardless of the potential controversy. As the anticipation builds for UFC 297, all eyes will be on Strickland both inside and outside the octagon.

Luis Ortiz, the Cuban heavyweight boxer, returned to the ring in a low-profile match. Ortiz returned to boxing at 44, defeating Francisco Cordero in Colombia. This win, his first since losing to Andy Ruiz Jr. in September 2022, raises the question: Should Luis Ortiz keep boxing? Ortiz's win over Cordero, a 37-year-old journeyman with three straight losses, may not seem impressive. It's significant for Ortiz, whose career seemed to be fading after recent losses. This fight, his first since 2022, raises the question: Does Luis Ortiz have more to offer boxing, or should he gracefully retire? Ortiz's dilemma goes beyond age. At this stage of his career, entering the ring is risky but rewarding. Not to mention the fact that Ortiz is a risky opponent for elite heavyweights. Losing to a 44-year-old veteran, who undoubtedly remains dangerous, could ruin their career. Age matters in heavyweight boxing. Ortiz, 44, faces a crossroads, haunted by his losses to Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz Jr. These career-defining losses overshadowed his recent win. They demonstrate the relentless march of time and its toll on even the strongest athletes. Ortiz remains competitive. As "King Kong," he has persevered and refused to quit. His recent win over a lesser-known opponent shows he still has the skills and determination to compete. The question remains: Will heavyweight greats face him? Will Ortiz be relegated to "secret fights," his talents showcased off-stage? The future is uncertain for Luis Ortiz. The boxing world wonders if the Cuban fighter will pursue glory in his twilight or retire, leaving behind a legacy of fierce battles and indomitable spirit. Life's toughest fights are often with oneself, like boxing. For Luis Ortiz, continuing is more than a choice; it's a reflection of a warrior's heart, still beating and desperate for the fight. But does he still have a place in boxing or is his time up? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Recently, Manny Pacquiao made headlines by announcing a potential rematch with Mayweather slated for 2024. However, unlike the fervor that surrounded their initial bout, the prospect of a rematch has failed to ignite the same level of excitement among fans. Even Oscar De La Hoya, a prominent figure in the boxing world, has expressed his skepticism, labeling the rematch as a "money grab." Despite De La Hoya acknowledging that the rematch could draw more attention to the sport, benefiting him as a promoter, he remains critical of the fight from a former fighter's perspective. De La Hoya, who faced both Mayweather and Pacquiao late in his career, lost to both fighters when he was in his mid-thirties. As of now, there is no official date for the potential rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao, and Mayweather himself has not confirmed the fight. The boxing community continues to watch and wait for any developments regarding this highly anticipated rematch. Follow FIGHT.TV for the latest news and updates.

Teofimo Lopez, known for his occasional enigmatic demeanor, is hailed as one of the boxing world's finest due to his exceptional skills. The 26-year-old is gearing up to defend his WBO and Ring Magazine titles against Jamaine Ortiz in less than a month. Renowned boxing figure Teddy Atlas, renowned for his extensive experience in the sport, has a keen eye for talent. According to Atlas, Lopez possesses the elusive "IT factors," including explosive skills and standout abilities that set him apart from the rest. “Teofimo has those IT factors,” Atlas said You either have them or you don’t have them.” Widely regarded as a pound-for-pound talent, Lopez has never shied away from the spotlight. Despite his bold claims early in his career, including his confidence in defeating Vasiliy Lomachenko, Lopez has proven himself by becoming an undisputed champion in the lightweight division before moving up to the super lightweight division. In his recent bout against Josh Taylor, another formidable opponent, Lopez once again defied the odds as an underdog, securing yet another impressive victory. When Lopez is at the top of his game both offensively and defensively, few can match his prowess in the ring. According to Atlas, if Lopez brings his A-game, it elevates him to a level beyond his peers, showcasing his exceptional talent and potential dominance in the sport.