The beginning of a new boxing year is always filled with a blend of optimism, anticipation, and various lists. Over the next twelve months, boxing will face both praise and critique, analyzed and occasionally mocked. Yet, despite the challenges, enthusiasts keep coming back for more.
The bouts themselves, however, often deliver excitement. January is kicking off with a thrilling match-up between Teofimo Lopez and Shakur Stevenson. While this time of year typically hosts quieter moments and algorithm-driven distractions, there’s a lot more to keep boxing fans engaged beyond the first few weeks.
So, what can we expect as January comes to an end? At Boxing News, we’ve reviewed the divisions and identified five matchups we not only wish to see but also believe are essential for the sport’s future. We begin our exploration in one of boxing’s most vibrant regions: Japan.
Naoya Inoue vs Junto Nakatani – Undisputed Super-Bantamweight Title
The anticipation created on December 27, 2025, was significant, as two bouts paved the way for an all-Japanese super-fight long awaited by fans. Inoue showcased his dominance against David Picasso, while Nakatani narrowly preserved his unbeaten streak against Sebastian Hernandez.
The aftermath of these fights has highlighted perceived disparities. Inoue appears to be the complete fighter, while Nakatani is still adjusting to the super-bantamweight scene, making him seem more like the challenger. However, this only heightens the excitement. A May showdown at the Tokyo Dome, possibly in front of 50,000 fans, would be a monumental event—a battle between a reigning champion and a challenger striving for greatness.
Jaron “Boots” Ennis vs Vergil Ortiz – Super-Welterweight
Boxing has reached a stage where taking risks is no longer frowned upon, and unbeaten records are becoming less sacred. Thanks to Riyadh Season, this shift in mindset is apparent. Nonetheless, this match must take place. Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya need to work together to deliver this pivotal contest at 154 lbs.
The matchup of Ennis’ speed and precision against Ortiz’s unyielding pressure and power is worthy of the division’s esteemed history. The winner would elevate themselves to a pinnacle that every elite fighter aspires to reach. Mixed signals have been sent; it’s imperative that this does not become another chance lost for boxing.
Dmitry Bivol vs Artur Beterbiev III – Light-Heavyweight Unification
This tied rivalry calls for closure, especially with both fighters remaining at peak performance. Bivol and Beterbiev, over two bouts, demonstrated that year-end classics can maintain tension and technical prowess without devolving into reckless brawls.
It has been nearly a year since Bivol’s memorable comeback, and while he has been sidelined by surgery, Beterbiev hopes his rest has fully recuperated him. Despite David Benavidez’s ambitions, Bivol and Beterbiev are still regarded as the top light-heavyweights, and boxing urgently requires their third encounter.
Hamzah Sheeraz vs Christian Mbilli – WBC Super-Middleweight Title
The super-middleweight division is in a state of flux following Terence Crawford’s retirement, creating an opportunity for new leadership. While Canelo Alvarez still holds that title, contenders like Sheeraz and Mbilli have a chance to establish themselves by securing their first world title.
The WBC has mandated this contest for good reason. Sheeraz boasts size, reach, and increasing authority, while Mbilli provides relentless effort and consistent pressure. Sheeraz impressed against Edgar Berlanga, while Mbilli managed to salvage a draw against Lester Martinez. Their contrasting styles promise an intense encounter with shifting dynamics.
Anthony Olascuaga vs Masamichi Yabuki – Flyweight Unification
Japanese boxing had a stellar year in 2025, with Olascuaga and Yabuki playing crucial roles in its success. Both fighters have thrived on opportunities and activity, rising to become two of the division’s most formidable punchers.
With their aggressive, fan-friendly approaches, their styles are perfectly matched. Olascuaga’s star continues to ascend, while Yabuki has revived his career since his 2022 setback against Kenshiro. The timing for this bout is impeccable, making it a strong contender for Fight of the Year.
