As the final bell rings on 2025, the world of boxing looks back on a year filled with electrifying performances, historic achievements, and unforgettable moments that captivated fans worldwide. From undisputed champions solidifying their legacies to explosive knockouts that left audiences in awe, this year has undoubtedly delivered a compelling narrative for the sport.
Terence Crawford emerged as a standout, capping off his illustrious career with a masterful performance against Canelo Alvarez in September. This victory not only saw him ascend in weight classes but also secured his status as the era’s only three-weight undisputed champion, a monumental feat that preceded his retirement. His move up in weight, while retaining his signature fluid movement and strategic control, cemented his place among the greatest of his generation.
However, the conversation for fighter of the year also features Naoya Inoue, whose relentless activity has kept him at the pinnacle of the sport. The undisputed super-bantamweight king, with a perfect 3-0 record in 2025 and a busy schedule, demonstrates an unmatched level of consistent performance. Despite a brief moment of vulnerability, his dominance and ambition continue to impress, even as he faces challenging opponents.
The year also showcased thrilling domestic rivalries, none more heated than the pair of grudge matches between Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn. The first bout delivered on its intense hype, setting the stage for Benn’s revenge in the second, a testament to the enduring bitterness and personal animosity between the two fighters.
Boxing’s appeal extended beyond traditional matchups, with crossover events continuing to draw significant attention. While not featured in this year’s top awards, bouts involving figures like Anthony Joshua against Jake Paul and Andrew Tate highlighted the sport’s evolving landscape and its ability to attract diverse audiences, sometimes to the chagrin of purists.
Among the year’s most memorable contests was the brutal twelve-round war between Joshua Buatsi and Callum Smith. The underdog Smith’s points victory was hard-fought, with the sixth round standing out for its relentless body work and momentum shifts. This bout showcased Buatsi’s skills and resilience, while Smith’s performance positions him for a potential world-title shot.
Another contender for fight of the year was the tactical masterclass of Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2. This rematch was a display of finely tuned skills and strategic brilliance, with Bivol executing a near-perfect game plan to overcome Beterbiev’s formidable power and claim victory. Bivol’s measured pacing and ability to control the ebb and flow of the fight were key to his success.
The knockout of the year honors went to Brian Norman Jr for his devastating finish of Jin Sasaki. Norman’s powerful left hooks, particularly the one that ended the fight, demonstrated his opportunistic power and left a lasting impression. The bout also highlighted Sasaki’s resilience before the decisive blow.
Fabio Wardley’s dramatic one-hitter quitter against Justis Huni also earned significant recognition. Trailing badly in his homecoming fight, Wardley produced an unexpected, explosive overhand right that ended Huni’s night and secured a crucial victory, propelling Wardley towards a potential world title shot.
The Eubank Jr vs Benn 1 event was a standout for its raw emotion and personal animosity, transcending mere matchmaking. Despite criticism of the size difference, the fight delivered twelve rounds of savagery, with both fighters showing immense heart. The dramatic entrance of Eubank Sr in the rematch added another layer of unforgettable spectacle.
Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2 also headlined a stacked card that provided exceptional value, featuring multiple fight-of-the-year candidates, knockout contenders, and intriguing matchups involving top-tier talent. This event underscored the growing influence of Saudi Arabian investment in boxing.
Looking ahead to 2026, a bold prediction suggests the long-awaited showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury could finally materialize. Driven by strategic rivalries and a desire to solidify their influence, Saudi Arabia may leverage this all-British clash as a significant counter-move in the boxing landscape.
Another potential domestic blockbuster for 2026 is a clash between rising stars Adam Azim and Dalton Smith. While Smith has pursued other opportunities, the anticipation for this fight remains high, with the possibility of a WBC super-lightweight title adding further intrigue to a contest that could define the next generation of British boxing.
