As we transition into 2026 following an eventful 2025 filled with significant boxing moments, it’s a good time to consider what exciting matchups lie ahead in the coming year. Several important fights are already scheduled, but what are the essential bouts that boxing fans hope to see in 2026?
Heavyweight: Oleksandr Usyk vs. Fabio Wardley
This could be Usyk’s final year in professional boxing, and it seems likely he’ll first face Deontay Wilder. Our top heavyweight, Wardley, who holds the WBO title, deserves a shot at the remaining belts following his impressive win against Joseph Parker. Knowing Usyk’s ambition to retire as an undisputed champion, a clash with Wardley seems inevitable.
Heavyweight: Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua
No dream fight list is complete without Fury vs. Joshua, but several obstacles may hinder its realization. Fury remains retired, although he’s hinted at a comeback and has been training. However, he hasn’t fought in over a year. Additionally, Joshua’s recent tragic car accident, which claimed the lives of friends, complicates his return to the ring.
Cruiserweight: Jai Opetaia vs. Gilberto Ramirez
This is the top matchup at 200 pounds. Opetaia, The Ring champion and IBF belt holder, is seeking a unification bout with WBA and WBO champion Ramirez. Their clash is a must-see that could unify the division, and while Ramirez has been linked to a fight with David Benavidez, Opetaia should be the priority for 2026.
Light heavyweight: Dmitry Bivol vs. David Benavidez
It’s been ten months since Bivol became the undisputed light heavyweight champion by edging out Artur Beterbiev. With no trilogy fight in sight, boxing fans are eager to see Bivol, the Ring, IBF, WBA, and WBO champion, face WBC titleholder Benavidez. Benavidez recently achieved a knockout victory against Anthony Yarde, cementing his place as a top contender for Bivol.
Super middleweight: Hamzah Sheeraz vs. Diego Pacheco
With Terence Crawford’s retirement, the super middleweight division is wide open, and Sheeraz and Pacheco are seen as potential future stars. They’ve been ordered to fight for the vacant WBO title, promising an exciting matchup between two powerful boxer-punchers. This is a fight fans eagerly want to see unfold.
Junior middleweight: Jaron Ennis vs. Vergil Ortiz
Arguably among the best possible matchups right now, this showdown would not even involve a title. Ennis recently moved to 154 pounds, and Ortiz is looking to solidify his standing after an impressive 2025. Their fight could provide a thrilling spectacle, so fingers crossed that the promotional rivals can work together to make this happen.
Welterweight: Conor Benn vs. Ryan Garcia
In the ongoing saga between Matchroom and Golden Boy, a non-title welterweight clash between these two stars could generate tremendous interest. Benn’s recent victory over Chris Eubank Jr. has elevated his profile, while Garcia looks to bounce back from a surprising defeat. This matchup promises excitement and could set the stage for a future title shot.
