Candidates for Fighter of the Year 2025: Analysis by Alofoke Deportes
With four months left in the 2025 boxing calendar, the race for Fighter of the Year remains open. Although we have witnessed notable performances, none have managed to stand out enough to separate themselves from the rest. From Oleksandr Usyk’s dominant victory over Daniel Dubois to Dmitry Bivol’s rematch against Artur Beterbiev, the year has offered great moments. However, the fight that defines the best is yet to come.
Below, on Alofoke Deportes, we analyze the most anticipated fights and the boxers with chances of closing the year with a flourish, consolidating their candidacy for the prestigious award.
Terence Crawford: A Historic Triumph?
The fight that is capturing all eyes is Terence Crawford’s challenge to Canelo Álvarez for the undisputed super middleweight championship. If Crawford manages to beat Canelo, moving up two weight classes and defeating a figure like Canelo, it could be the most valuable performance of the year. Let’s not forget that Crawford will turn 38 in September, almost three years older than Canelo.
A Crawford victory would not only consecrate him as the Fighter of the Year, but would also position him as one of the best boxers of all time.
Rolando “Rolly” Romero: Will he surprise everyone?
Following knockout defeats to Gervonta “Tank” Davis in 2022 and Isaac Cruz in 2024, Romero seemed relegated to the background. However, his unanimous decision victory over Ryan Garcia in May has put him in Manny Pacquiao’s sights as a possible opponent for his next fight.
If Romero managed to beat Pacquiao, he could claim the Fighter of the Year award.
Katie Taylor: Decisive Rematch?
After closing the trilogy with Amanda Serrano with a clear victory in July, Taylor could face Chantelle Cameron in a third fight. Cameron is the only boxer who has defeated Taylor in her professional career.
If Taylor achieves a convincing victory, she would be a strong candidate for the award.
Naoya Inoue: Continuous Domination?
Inoue, known as “The Monster”, has had a smashing year. His fight against Akhmadaliev on September 14th and a possible fourth fight in 2025 could establish him as the Fighter of the Year.
If Inoue achieves a 4-0 record with four knockouts this year, he could win the award.
Moses Itauma: Meteoric Rise?
With only 20 years old, Itauma has gone from promise to contender in the blink of an eye. His first-round knockout victory over Dillian Whyte on August 16th demonstrated his potential. Itauma is expected to return to the ring before the end of the year.
If Itauma achieves a victory against a top 10 heavyweight boxer, he will be a strong contender for the award.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: Consolidation in the ring?
Rodriguez added titles to his collection with an impressive victory over Phumelele Cafu in July, becoming the WBO super flyweight world champion. His next fight will be against IBF champion Martinez in November.
If Rodriguez continues to impress and defeats Martinez, he could be considered for the award.
Shakur Stevenson: New challenges?
Stevenson has had a successful year with victories over Josh Padley and William Zepeda. His options to close the year with a big fight are limited.
If Stevenson delivers another outstanding performance, he could enter the conversation for the award.
