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The heavyweight division in boxing is currently in a messy state. It is widely acknowledged that the division has the potential to be the leading division in the sport, with the best fighters facing off and creating compelling drama. However, the recent match-ups announced, such as Anthony Joshua rematching Dillian Whyte and Oleksandr Usyk fighting Daniel Dubois, have left fans unsatisfied. Additionally, Tyson Fury is rumored to be announcing a crossover fight with MMA star Francis Ngannou, which further adds to the frustration. SportingNews.com places the blame solely on Fury for holding up the division and preventing exciting fights from being made.
While it is true that Fury’s actions have caused problems in making significant fights, it would be unfair and shortsighted to solely blame him. For example, in the case of the potential Fury-Ngannou fight, Fury is being offered a significant sum of money to fight someone he could easily defeat, without any consequences on his boxing record if he were to lose. It would be hard to fault Fury for accepting such an offer, as it is a dream scenario for a prizefighter. Ultimately, the blame should be placed on those funding the Fury-Ngannou fight.
Another match-up that has drawn criticism is Joshua-Whyte, primarily due to its pay-per-view price. Eddie Hearn, the fight’s promoter, defended the price tag by stating that pay-per-view prices have been consistently high in the past, and it is a reflection of the rising costs of everything. However, many fans find the cost to be excessive.
All in all, the issues with the heavyweight division are not solely the fault of one person but are a result of multiple failings within the boxing industry.
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There has been tension between Ryan Garcia and Golden Boy Promotions, his representation, particularly with Oscar De La Hoya. Since Garcia’s loss to Gervonta Davis, the nature of their working relationship has been unclear. Garcia has expressed his disappointment in how he has been treated by Golden Boy, while De La Hoya has publicly stated that discussions for Garcia’s next fight are going well. Bernard Hopkins, a long-time member of Golden Boy, further complicates the situation by mocking and belittling Garcia in the media. This raises questions about why Garcia would continue working with individuals who do not respect him, and how other fighters within Golden Boy must feel about how one of their most marketable stars is being portrayed.
Boxing on the Box
July 15
Josh Kelly-Gabriel Alberto Corzo
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Coverage begins at 7pm
July 16
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DAZN
Coverage begins at 1am