Robert Garcia
The final stretch of the 2025 boxing schedule promises a series of high-stakes clashes, featuring established champions and rising stars vying for glory before the year concludes. From light heavyweight title defenses to intriguing heavyweight matchups, the remaining events offer a compelling mix of skill, power, and competitive intrigue.
One of the most unconventional and closely watched contests is slated for December 19 in Miami, as YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul steps into the ring with former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. This bout represents a significant leap in competition for Paul, who has primarily faced mixed martial artists and retired athletes in his nascent boxing career. Joshua, while looking to recapture his former dominance, is aiming to solidify his position as a top contender in the heavyweight division.
For Paul (10-1, 6 KOs), this fight is an opportunity to prove his legitimacy in the boxing world. His previous victories include wins over former UFC fighters Tyron Woodley and Anderson Silva, but critics have often dismissed his opponents as past their prime or not possessing the requisite boxing skills. A win against Joshua would undoubtedly silence many doubters and elevate his status within the sport.
Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs), on the other hand, is looking to continue his resurgence following consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022. After those setbacks, the British star bounced back with wins over Jermaine Franklin, Robert Helenius, and Otto Wallin. While those wins were expected, they demonstrated his commitment to returning to the top of the heavyweight ranks. A victory over Paul, while not as significant as a title fight, would serve as another step in rebuilding his confidence and momentum.
"I’m taking this fight very seriously," Joshua stated in a recent interview. "Jake Paul is a determined fighter, and I won’t underestimate him. I’m focused on delivering a dominant performance and showing the world that I’m still a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division."
The risk for Joshua is substantial. A loss to a relatively inexperienced boxer like Paul would be a major setback, potentially damaging his reputation and future prospects in the division. However, a convincing win would reaffirm his status as a top contender and pave the way for more significant matchups in 2026.
Before the Joshua-Paul spectacle, the boxing world turns its attention to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 22, where David Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs) defends his WBC light heavyweight title against British challenger Anthony Yarde (24-3, 23 KOs). Benavidez, known for his relentless pressure and high volume of punches, is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the division. Yarde, with his aggressive style and knockout power, promises to make this a compelling clash.
Benavidez captured the interim WBC light heavyweight title with a dominant performance against Oleksandr Gvozdyk in June 2024. His aggressive style and relentless pressure make him a formidable opponent for any fighter in the division.
Yarde, who previously challenged for the WBO light heavyweight title against Artur Beterbiev, is determined to seize his opportunity. While he came up short against Beterbiev, he showcased his toughness and power, pushing the champion to his limits before eventually succumbing to a knockout.
"I’ve learned a lot from my previous experiences," Yarde said. "I’m more focused and determined than ever. Benavidez is a great fighter, but I believe I have the power and skill to beat him and bring the title back to the UK."
The November 22 card in Riyadh also features a highly anticipated unification bout between Jesse "Bam" Rodriguez (19-0, 12 KOs), the WBO and WBC junior bantamweight champion, and Fernando Martinez (16-0, 9 KOs). Rodriguez, a rising star in the sport, is known for his exceptional boxing skills and versatility. Martinez, a tough and experienced fighter, is looking to add more titles to his collection.
Also on the card, Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) defends his WBO welterweight title against Devin Haney (31-1, 15 KOs). Norman, a relatively unknown fighter, will be looking to upset Haney, who is a former undisputed lightweight champion.
December 6 features a pair of interesting fights. In San Antonio, Lamont Roach Jr. (24-1-1, 9 KOs) faces Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) in a junior welterweight showdown. Roach, a skilled boxer with a high ring IQ, will look to outbox the hard-hitting Cruz. Cruz, known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, will try to overwhelm Roach with his aggression. Also on December 6, Jai Opetaia (24-0, 19 KOs) defends his IBF cruiserweight title against Huseyin Cinkara (19-0, 15 KOs) in Broadbeach, Australia. Opetaia, a skilled boxer with a high ring IQ, will look to outbox the hard-hitting Cinkara. Cinkara, known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, will try to overwhelm Opetaia with his aggression.
On December 12, Kubrat Pulev (30-4, 14 KOs) faces Murat Gassiev (31-2, 21 KOs) in a heavyweight fight in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Pulev, a seasoned veteran, is looking to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Gassiev, a former cruiserweight champion, is looking to make a name for himself in the heavyweight division.
The following night, December 13, Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) defends his WBC cruiserweight title against Norair Mikaeljan (27-2, 12 KOs) in Los Angeles. Jack, a veteran of the sport, is looking to add another title to his collection. Mikaeljan, a relatively unknown fighter, will be looking to upset Jack.
The year’s boxing schedule culminates on December 27 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with Naoya Inoue (27-0, 24 KOs), the undisputed junior featherweight champion, putting his four world titles on the line against Alan Picasso (26-0, 15 KOs), a talented and undefeated Mexican challenger. Inoue, widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, is known for his exceptional power, speed, and precision. Picasso, while relatively unknown on the international stage, has a strong amateur background and a growing reputation as a dangerous contender.
Inoue’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, capturing world titles in multiple weight divisions and dominating his opponents with a combination of skill and power. His victories over Nonito Donaire, Paul Butler, and Stephen Fulton have solidified his status as a true superstar in the sport.
Picasso represents a fresh challenge for Inoue, bringing a combination of youth, speed, and determination to the ring. While he lacks the experience of Inoue’s previous opponents, his undefeated record and growing confidence make him a dangerous opponent.
"I’m excited to face Alan Picasso," Inoue said. "He’s a young and hungry fighter, and I know he’ll bring his best. I’m preparing for a tough fight, and I’m determined to defend my titles and end the year on a high note."
The Inoue-Picasso fight is expected to be a fitting end to a year of exciting boxing action, showcasing the sport’s blend of skill, power, and drama. As the year draws to a close, boxing fans can look forward to these compelling matchups, which promise to deliver memorable moments and shape the landscape of the sport in 2026.
Please note that the boxing schedule is subject to change, and this report will be updated as new information becomes available.
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