In-Depth Analysis: Reality or Fiction in the World of Boxing?
In the exciting world of boxing, expectations and speculations are always the order of the day. We analyze the latest news and debunk some rumors, separating truth from fiction.
Oleksandr Usyk: Heading Towards a Mandatory Fight?
Oleksandr Usyk, after his impressive KO victory in the fifth round against Daniel Dubois on July 19, unifying the heavyweight titles, faces a crossroads. The WBO has ordered Usyk to face his mandatory challenger, Joseph Parker.
Usyk is expected to face Tyson Fury in a trilogy next year, but if he declines to fight Parker first, he will have to relinquish his WBO belt, losing his undisputed champion status. What decision will Usyk make?
With financial support from Riyadh seemingly ruled out for the Usyk vs. Parker organization, Usyk will have to accept a salary reduction or wait for Fury’s return in 2026.
The possibility of the fight taking place in Germany, near the Ukrainian population, is high. Parker, the strongest challenger for Usyk, could be his next rival. It would not be surprising if the fight took place at the end of this year in Germany or Poland.
Is Nick Ball the Number One in Featherweight?
Nick Ball is preparing for his third defense of the WBA featherweight title on August 16 against Sam Goodman. Although Ball is the longest-reigning champion in the division, will a victory against Goodman cement him as the best at 126 pounds?While Ball’s victory over Goodman is likely, even a KO wouldn’t guarantee that he’d be considered number one in the division. To achieve that status, he’ll need to face and defeat other champions.
WBO champion Rafael Espinoza or WBC title holder Stephen Fulton could be considered superior to Ball. Ball needs to prove more to be recognized as the best.
Anthony Joshua: Next Rival, Tony Yoka?
Anthony Joshua, former unified heavyweight champion, seems to have Tony Yoka as his next opponent, instead of Jake Paul or Tyson Fury.Joshua, recovering from elbow surgery, has suggested that 2026 will be his last year in boxing, with the goal of securing fights against Fury and Paul.
A showdown against Yoka, an Olympic gold medalist, could be the boost Joshua needs to prepare for future fights.
Manny Pacquiao: A New Chapter in His Career?
Manny Pacquiao returned to the ring on July 19th after four years of retirement, achieving a draw against Mario Barrios. Will Pacquiao be able to win another title?With the right matchmaking, Pacquiao could avoid the most dangerous rivals and face an opponent he can beat. The opportunity could arise if Jaron “Boots” Ennis vacates his title.
A showdown against the winner of the IBF vacant title fight between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan could be his best chance to become champion again.
Teofimo López: Title Unification against Richardson Hitchins?
Teofimo López, WBO super lightweight champion, could face Richardson Hitchins, IBF champion. Will López be able to unify the titles?If Lopez maintains the form shown in his last fight and follows the correct strategy, he could beat Hitchins. Lopez must remain disciplined and avoid provocation.
The key for Lopez will be to combine his movement and boxing, as well as his fast combinations to secure the victory by decision.
