As 2023 comes to an end, boxing saw “superfights” and upsets with standout performances by Errol Spence Jr., Naoya Inoue, and Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Notable upsets included Ezequiel Maderna beating Karol Itauma and Katie Taylor avenging her only defeat against Chantelle Cameron.
Looking to 2024, key matchups include Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk on February 17 in Riyadh and Canelo Alvarez vs. David Benavidez in the summer in the Super Middleweight division.
2024 is set to impress in professional boxing. Here are some standout confirmed and potential fights for the next twelve months.
Fury vs Usyk
Tyson Fury is set to clash with Oleksandr Usyk in a monumental showdown for the undisputed heavyweight championship on February 17, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Originally slated for December 23, 2023, the bout was rescheduled, attributing the delay to Fury’s formidable bout with Francis Ngannou.
This epic encounter is a highlight of the ongoing “Riyadh Season,” a grand celebration echoing throughout Saudi Arabia. While the odds for this titanic clash are yet to be unveiled, preliminary figures positioned Fury as the frontrunner at -170, with Usyk following closely at +130.
Canelo Alvarez vs David Benavidez
Switching focus to the potential blockbuster between Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez, the stage is set for a summer spectacle in 2024 on American soil. Stretched across 12 rounds in the Super Middleweight division, anticipation runs high, even though the odds for this riveting match remain undisclosed.
Canelo has expressed interest in fighting at Mexico’s Azteca Stadium before retiring. Controversy surrounds the match, with Juan Manuel Marquez urging the WBC to strip Canelo of his title if he avoids Benavidez, amid unconfirmed rumors of Canelo’s reluctance.
Bivol vs Beterbiev
One of my dream fights of 2024 has officially been confirmed, fans will finally see the clash between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. Bivol, known for his quick hands and agile footwork, is regarded as a technical fighter, steering clear of reckless brawling. Conversely, Beterbiev is acknowledged for his strength and durability, boasting knockouts in every bout.
Opinions vary, with some foreseeing Bivol’s movement and boxing skills leading to a decision victory, while others argue that Beterbiev’s power and subtle style could secure a late stoppage. Check out the latest Bivol vs Beterbiev odds and props for their upcoming fight.
In terms of betting odds, Bivol is the favored contender against Beterbiev. On;ine sportsbooks give Bivol the edge, though Beterbiev closely trails, signifying a closely contested matchup.
Devin Haney vs Ryan Garcia
As for the eagerly awaited showdown between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia, These Longtime rivals from their amateur days, Haney and Garcia, each claiming three wins in six meetings, anticipate an electrifying clash. Both active fighters, Haney more so recently, discussions for a 140-pound bout are underway.
Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 2
Originally set for May 20, 2024, in Dublin, Ireland, the rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, two top pound-for-pound fighters, was postponed due to an injury to Serrano.
Taylor vs Serrano 2 will have all four lightweight titles on the line, following their historic first encounter at Madison Square Garden.
Lomachenko vs Kambosos Jr.
Vasiliy Lomachenko and George Kambosos Jr. are in the final stages of negotiating a lightweight title bout, aiming for a showdown on April 14, 2024, in Australia. The focus of the match is the IBF belt, and both fighters are on the verge of sealing the deal for this highly awaited clash.
Lomachenko, a former three-division champion and a pound-for-pound contender, is regrouping after a narrow defeat to Devin Haney. Kambosos, the former undisputed lightweight champion, seeks redemption following a close win against Maxi Hughes.
Natasha Jonas vs Mikaela Mayer
Marking its place on the calendar, the Natasha Jonas vs. Mikaela Mayer clash is slated for January 20, 2024, at the illustrious M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, boasting a seating capacity of 11,000. Although the odds for this matchup are currently elusive, the stage is set for an unforgettable evening of pugilistic prowess.
Details are scant for the Ohara Davies vs. Ismael Barroso and Artur Beterbiev vs. Callum Smith matchups. However, aficionados can expect the odds to be unveiled as the fight dates draw near, urging them to stay tuned for updates.
Feel free to share your dream fight matchups for 2024! Whether it’s a long-awaited showdown or a potential clash between rising stars, the boxing world is full of exciting possibilities. Who do you hope to see step into the ring together this year?