Gervonta “Tank” Davis is considered one of the top pound-for-pound boxers globally, but his ongoing legal issues are causing uncertainty around his career. Will this three-division champion ever step into the ring again?
Ryan Garcia possesses remarkable speed and knockout power, yet his notable victory against Devin Haney was annulled due to a positive test for a banned substance. Can Garcia finally realize his potential and win his first significant world title against Mario Barrios on February 21?
Andreas Hale, Nick Parkinson, and James Regan discuss these topics alongside Nick Ball, Claressa Shields, Tyson Fury, and the rematch between Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington, distinguishing fact from fiction.
Fact or Fiction: Gervonta Davis Will Never Fight Again
Fiction. Although Davis has hinted at retirement and his waning interest in boxing, it seems unlikely he will retire after his latest legal troubles. In fact, these challenges could increase the likelihood of his return, especially because of the financial rewards he garners from fights. Davis was scheduled for a lucrative exhibition against Jake Paul in November, but the fight was canceled due to serious legal accusations. At just 31 and physically in his prime, Davis’s return would likely generate significant income that could be hard to resist.
Fact or Fiction: Tyson Fury Will Struggle Against Arslanbek Makhmudov
Fiction. Fury may not be at peak performance after a long hiatus, which could make his return challenging, but he is still favored to defeat an opponent who has faced recent setbacks in the ring. Despite Makhmudov’s recent decision victory, his history, including being knocked out twice in four fights, raises concerns. Though Fury has had his own struggles in interim fights, he should secure a win, even if it goes the distance.
Fact or Fiction: Ryan Garcia Will Capture a World Title in 2026
Fact. Despite a rocky couple of years, Garcia remains a highly gifted boxer. His impending title match against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios is likely his best shot to claim a world title. Garcia’s talent significantly surpasses that of Barrios, but preparation will be crucial. If focused, Garcia’s speed and power should be sufficient to earn him the victory that fans have been anticipating.
Fact or Fiction: Nick Ball Will Knock Out Brandon Figueroa to Retain His WBA Featherweight Title
Fiction. While Ball has a reputation for knocking out tough opponents, Figueroa poses a unique challenge as he has never been stopped in a fight. Ball has enjoyed relative success in his recent defenses, but Figueroa’s experience and resilience could present a significant hurdle. Although the matchup is set for Liverpool, expecting a KO might be too ambitious against such a durable opponent.
Fact or Fiction: Franchon Crews-Dezurn Will Upset Claressa Shields for the Undisputed Heavyweight Championship
Fiction. Despite the accomplishments of both fighters, Shields is still young and entering her prime. Their first encounter nearly a decade ago saw Shields emerging victorious. While Crews-Dezurn has grown as a boxer, Shields has also evolved and remains a dominant contender. The challenge of facing Shields, recognized as the best female pound-for-pound fighter, will be a significant obstacle for Crews-Dezurn.
Fact or Fiction: Leigh Wood Will Retire Josh Warrington
Fact. Wood appears to have the upper hand going into this rematch. Their previous bout ended with Wood knocking out Warrington, and both fighters now find themselves at a crossroads in their careers. With Warrington’s recent struggles and uncertainty about his future, this fight could determine the end for either contender.
