Boxing fans, prepare for a thrilling weekend! ESPN presents a lineup of eight must-watch fights, each with its own unique story and potential for controversy. But which bout will reign supreme?
1. Teofimo Lopez Jr. vs. Shakur Stevenson
The highly anticipated showdown between Lopez and Stevenson takes center stage in New York. Lopez, known for his impressive performances against the likes of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor, must bring his A-game to defend his WBO junior welterweight title. But will he rise to the occasion or stumble as he did against George Kambosos Jr. and Jamaine Ortiz? Stevenson, a skilled southpaw, aims to frustrate Lopez with his defensive prowess and reliable jab. But can he avoid the brawling style that Lopez thrives in? This fight promises to be a tactical battle, with the winner claiming supremacy in the pound-for-pound rankings.
2. Keyshawn Davis vs. Jamaine Ortiz
Davis, the ruthless WBO lightweight champion, steps up to junior welterweight to face Ortiz. After a weight-missing fiasco, Davis seeks redemption and a statement win. Ortiz, a seasoned competitor, has faced elite opponents like Lomachenko and Lopez, and his versatility could spell trouble for Davis. Will Davis' speed be enough to secure victory, or will Ortiz pull off a stunning upset?
3. Bakhram Murtazaliev vs. Josh Kelly
Kelly, backed by his passionate home crowd in Newcastle, takes on the formidable Murtazaliev for the IBF junior middleweight title. Kelly must keep his emotions in check against the Russian powerhouse, who has knocked out the likes of Tim Tszyu and Jack Culcay. With Kelly's clever boxing skills and Murtazaliev's recent inactivity, this fight could go either way. Will it be a Murtazaliev knockout or a clever Kelly upset?
4. Carlos Adames vs. Austin Williams
Adames, the WBC middleweight world champion, seeks redemption after a split draw with Hamzah Sheeraz. He must bring his best against Williams, a southpaw with powerful counterattacks. Can Adames withstand the pressure and secure a convincing win, or will Williams' counterpunching prowess turn this into a close contest?
5. Xander Zayas vs. Abass Baraou
Zayas, the WBO junior middleweight champion, faces a familiar foe in Baraou, the WBA champion, in a unification bout. Zayas dominated Jorge Garcia to claim his first world title, showcasing his footwork and counterpunching skills. But Baraou, a forward-marching fighter, presents a different challenge. Will Zayas' strategy of boxing his way to victory pay off, or will Baraou's aggression prove too much?
6. Adam Azim vs. Gustavo Daniel Lemos
Azim, with a potential future fight against English rival Dalton Smith on the horizon, takes on Lemos. Azim's patient dismantling of Kurt Scoby showcased his measured approach. A win over Lemos could propel Azim into contention for the IBF title. But will he live up to the hype?
7. Bruce Carrington vs. Carlos Castro
Brooklyn's Carrington aims to capture his first world title in front of his hometown fans at Madison Square Garden. He's a heavy favorite, but Castro, an experienced fighter, could pose a threat. Castro's inactivity and past losses against quality opponents may hinder his chances. Will Carrington live up to the buzz, or will Castro spoil the party?
8. Dina Thorslund vs. Almudena Alvarez
Thorslund, a former two-division world champion, returns to the ring after a difficult 2025. She faces Alvarez for the WBC interim featherweight title, aiming to reclaim her dominance. With Thorslund's superior record and Alvarez's underdog status, this fight is expected to be a one-sided affair. But in the world of boxing, anything can happen.
Which of these fights has you on the edge of your seat? Do you agree with our rankings, or do you have a different take? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below, and let's get ready for an unforgettable weekend of boxing!
