Boxing Fighter of the Year Candidates: Analysis and Perspectives
As we delve into the final four months of the 2025 boxing calendar, the race for the coveted “Fighter of the Year” title remains open. Although we have already witnessed notable performances, such as Oleksandr Usyk’s resounding victory over Daniel Dubois and Dmitry Bivol’s rematch against Artur Beterbiev, none have managed to stand out enough to separate themselves from the rest.
However, the calendar still has important fights scheduled that could change the landscape and consolidate a fighter as the best of the year. The clash between Terence Crawford and Canelo Álvarez for the undisputed super middleweight championship is one of the most anticipated. In addition, other boxers have the opportunity to close the year strong and strengthen their position.
Below, we analyze some of the already announced fights and the boxers who could compete again before the end of the year. What will they have to achieve to secure their place as Alofoke Deportes’ “Fighter of the Year”?
Terence Crawford
If Crawford manages to defeat Canelo Álvarez, his only fight of the year could be enough. Moving up two weight classes to defeat Canelo, a pound-for-pound reference, and becoming undisputed champion in three divisions, would have a higher value than any other boxer with two or three fights.
Beating a great like Canelo, who has never lost at 168 pounds, would be a transcendental achievement for Crawford, who turns 38 in September and is almost three years older than his opponent.
Rolando “Rolly” Romero
Although knockout losses to Gervonta “Tank” Davis in 2022 and Isaac Cruz in 2024 relegated him to a supporting role, Romero surprised by defeating Ryan Garcia by unanimous decision in May. In addition, he is on the list of potential opponents for Manny Pacquiao for his next fight.
If Romero manages to beat Pacquiao, he could have a strong candidacy for the award.
Katie Taylor
After defeating Amanda Serrano by clear decision in July, Taylor could seek a third fight against Chantelle Cameron, the only boxer who has defeated her in her professional career.
If Taylor gets a convincing victory, it would be difficult to ignore her in the conversation for the fighter of the year award.
Naoya Inoue
Inoue, known as “The Monster,” has had a dominant year with knockouts over Ye Joon Kim and Ramón Cardenas. He will face Akhmadaliev on September 14. A victory over “MJ” would not guarantee the prize, but a fourth fight in 2025 would strongly position him.
If Inoue achieves a 4-0 record with four knockouts this year, he could be deserving of the award.
Moses Itauma
At 20 years old, Itauma has gone from prospect to contender in the blink of an eye. His first-round knockout victory against Dillian Whyte on August 16th demonstrated his potential. With less than six minutes of fight time in 2025, he is likely to return before the end of the year.
If Itauma gets a fight and defeats a top 10 heavyweight boxer, it would be difficult to exclude him from the conversation.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez
Rodriguez added another title to his collection in 2025 by defeating Phumelele Cafu in the tenth round in July and becoming WBO super flyweight champion. Currently, he holds the WBC title. He will face Martinez in November at The Ring IV event.
If Rodriguez manages to defeat Fernando Martinez, he could get closer to becoming the undisputed champion at 115 pounds.
Shakur Stevenson
Stevenson, with a 2-0 record in 2025, has achieved victories over Josh Padley and William Zepeda. Although he has sought fights with Gervonta Davis and Teofimo López, his options for a big fight at the end of 2025 are limited.
Stevenson could also face Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield or seek a unification fight against IBF champion Raymond Muratalla.
