The Most Anticipated Fights of 2024
The year 2024 is shaping up to be an electrifying one for combat sports enthusiasts, with a lineup of highly anticipated fights across various disciplines and weight classes. From boxing showdowns to mixed martial arts (MMA) clashes, the calendar is packed with events that promise to deliver high drama, intense action, and potentially historic outcomes. Let's dive into the details of these eagerly awaited battles.
July 20: Tokyo, Japan
The summer kicks off with a trio of world title fights in Tokyo, Japan, on July 20. This event showcases some of the finest talents in the lower weight divisions, highlighting the global appeal of boxing.
Junto Nakatani vs Vincent Astrolabio (WBC Bantamweight World Title)
Junto Nakatani, known for his impeccable technique and power, faces off against Vincent Astrolabio for the WBC Bantamweight World Title. Nakatani, a rising star from Japan, has garnered attention with his undefeated record and impressive knockout ratio. Astrolabio, a formidable contender from the Philippines, brings his own blend of speed and resilience to the ring. This fight is expected to be a tactical battle, with both fighters vying for supremacy in the bantamweight division.
Kosei Tanaka vs Jonathan Rodriguez (WBO Super-Flyweight World Title)
Kosei Tanaka, a three-division world champion, continues his quest for greatness as he takes on Jonathan Rodriguez for the WBO Super-Flyweight World Title. Tanaka's speed, skill, and relentless pressure have made him a fan favorite, while Rodriguez's toughness and determination pose a significant challenge. This bout promises to be an action-packed encounter with the potential for high drama.
Riku Kano vs Anthony Olascuaga (WBO Flyweight World Title)
Riku Kano, another Japanese prospect, battles Anthony Olascuaga for the WBO Flyweight World Title. Kano's slick boxing style and defensive prowess will be tested against Olascuaga's aggressive approach and power. This fight is a clash of styles that could produce a captivating spectacle for boxing aficionados.
July 20: Florida, USA: Jake Paul vs Mike Perry (Cruiserweight)
On the same night, across the Pacific in Florida, USA, an unconventional yet intriguing matchup takes place. YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul steps into the ring with former UFC fighter Mike Perry. This cruiserweight bout is more than just a spectacle; it's a testament to the growing trend of crossover fights in combat sports. Paul's polarizing persona and undefeated record in boxing will be challenged by Perry's experience and striking skills from his MMA background. This fight is expected to draw significant attention and viewership, blending entertainment with genuine competition.
July 27: London, UK: Joe Joyce vs Derek Chisora (Heavyweight)
Joe Joyce, the Juggernaut, takes on the battle-hardened Derek Chisora. Joyce's unbeaten record and knockout power make him a formidable opponent, while Chisora's rugged style and experience provide a stern test. This heavyweight bout is anticipated to be a slugfest, with both fighters known for their willingness to trade punches and go toe-to-toe.
July 27: Detroit, USA: Claressa Shields vs Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse (WBO Light-Heavyweight and WBC Heavyweight World Titles)
Claressa Shields, a trailblazer in women's boxing, defends her titles against Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse. Shields, who holds championships in multiple weight classes, is regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound female boxers. Lepage-Joanisse, an emerging contender, will look to dethrone Shields and make a name for herself. This fight is significant not only for the titles at stake but also for its impact on women's boxing.
UFC 304: July 27, Manchester, UK
Mixed martial arts fans are treated to a blockbuster event with UFC 304 in Manchester.
Edwards vs Muhammad 2
The main event features a rematch between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad. Edwards, a top welterweight contender, seeks to solidify his claim for a title shot, while Muhammad looks to avenge their previous no-contest result. This fight is crucial for the welterweight division, with high stakes and intense rivalry.
Aspinall vs Blaydes
The co-main event sees heavyweights Tom Aspinall and Curtis Blaydes face off for the second time. Aspinall, a rising star in the heavyweight division, aims to continue his ascent, while Blaydes seeks redemption and a return to title contention. Their first encounter ended abruptly due to an injury, adding more intrigue to this rematch.
August 3: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, USA
Early August brings another night of high-stakes boxing.
Terence Crawford vs Israil Madrimov (WBA Super-Welterweight World Title)
Terence Crawford, one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, takes on Israil Madrimov for the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title. Crawford's switch-hitting ability and tactical brilliance will be tested against Madrimov's unorthodox style and power. This fight has all the ingredients for a classic encounter, with Crawford aiming to cement his legacy and Madrimov looking to make a significant impact.
Isaac Cruz vs Jose Valenzuela (WBA Super-Lightweight World Title)
Isaac Cruz, known for his aggressive fighting style, challenges Jose Valenzuela for the WBA Super-Lightweight World Title. Cruz's relentless pressure and power make him a fan favorite, while Valenzuela's technical skills and movement pose a strategic challenge. This bout is expected to be a high-paced, action-packed affair.
David Morrell vs Radivoje Kalajdzic (WBA 'Regular' Light-Heavyweight Title)
David Morrell, a rising star in the light-heavyweight division, defends his WBA 'Regular' title against Radivoje Kalajdzic. Morrell's speed and athleticism will be put to the test against Kalajdzic's experience and power. This fight could be a stepping stone for Morrell towards bigger opportunities in the division.
August 31: 3Arena, Dublin, Ireland
In a unique and unconventional event, KSI takes on a double challenge.
KSI vs Slim Albaher and Anthony Taylor (2 vs 1 Unofficial Fight)
After his humiliating loss to Tommy Fury, YouTube star KSI steps into the ring for a 2 vs 1 unofficial fight against Slim Albaher and Anthony Taylor. This event is more of an exhibition than a traditional boxing match, aimed at entertainment and spectacle. KSI, known for his previous boxing bouts and massive online following, will look to showcase his skills in this unconventional format.
September 21: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Late September sees a blockbuster night of boxing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois (IBF Heavyweight World Title)
Anthony Joshua, a former unified heavyweight champion, faces Daniel Dubois for the IBF Heavyweight World Title. Joshua, known for his power and athleticism, seeks to reclaim his status as a top heavyweight, while Dubois, a young and hungry contender, aims to make his mark. This fight is crucial for the heavyweight landscape, with significant implications for the future of the division.
Anthony Cacace vs Josh Warrington (IBF Super-Featherweight World Title)
Anthony Cacace takes on Josh Warrington for the IBF Super-Featherweight World Title. Cacace's technical skills and defensive prowess will be challenged by Warrington's relentless pressure and volume punching. This bout promises to be a clash of styles with high stakes.
Joshua Buatsi vs Willy Hutchinson (WBO 'Interim' Light-Heavyweight Title)
Joshua Buatsi, a highly touted prospect, faces Willy Hutchinson for the WBO 'Interim' Light-Heavyweight Title. Buatsi's combination of power and technique makes him a formidable opponent, while Hutchinson's speed and agility add an element of unpredictability. This fight is a stepping stone for both fighters towards world title contention.
Tyler Denny vs Hamzah Sheeraz (European Middleweight Title)
Tyler Denny defends his European Middleweight Title against Hamzah Sheeraz. Denny's rugged style and durability will be tested against Sheeraz's youth and power. This bout is significant for the European middleweight scene and could lead to bigger opportunities for the winner.
Josh Kelly vs Liam Smith (Middleweight)
Josh Kelly and Liam Smith square off in a middleweight clash. Kelly's flashy style and speed will be put to the test against Smith's experience and toughness. This fight is expected to be an intriguing matchup with both fighters looking to make a statement in the division.
October 21: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh hosts another major event in October, featuring a light-heavyweight unification bout.
Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol (WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO Light-Heavyweight World Titles)
Artur Beterbiev, known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, faces Dmitry Bivol, a master technician, in a unification bout for the light-heavyweight titles. This fight is highly anticipated, with both fighters holding undefeated records and bringing contrasting styles to the ring. Beterbiev's power against Bivol's precision makes this a potential fight of the year candidate.
November 15: Texas, USA
November brings a night of high-profile boxing in Texas.
Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson (Heavyweight)
In an unprecedented matchup, social media star Jake Paul takes on boxing legend Mike Tyson. Paul, who has gained attention with his boxing endeavors, faces the challenge of a lifetime against Tyson, one of the most feared heavyweights in history. While this fight is more of an exhibition, it has generated massive interest due to the names involved.
Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 2 (WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO Super-Lightweight World Titles)
Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano meet again in a rematch for the super-lightweight world titles. Their first fight was an instant classic, and the rematch is expected to be just as thrilling. Taylor's skill and determination will be tested once more against Serrano's power and aggression. This fight is significant for women's boxing, showcasing two of the best in the sport.
The lineup of fights in 2024 promises a thrilling year for combat sports fans. From world title clashes to high-profile exhibitions, each event brings its own unique excitement and drama. As these fighters step into the ring or octagon, they carry not only their own aspirations but also the hopes of fans around the world, making each bout a potential moment of history in the making.
