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DAVE COLDWELL knows what it’s like to go up against Joseph Parker and laid out what kind of problems Daniel Dubois will have when he fights the New Zealander on February 22.

Dubois, 22-2 (21 KOs), defends his IBF heavyweight title in Riyadh against the former WBO champion on a bumper card.

The British fighter is in red-hot form, having beaten Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic and Anthony Joshua since his knockout defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in 2023. Dubois is brimming with confidence and is eyeing a rematch against the unified champion should he get past Parker.

Coldwell, who trained Derek Chisora for his rematch against Parker in December 2021, explained what the 33-year-old challenger possesses and the problems Dubois will have to overcome.

“It’s a completely different challenge,” he said.

“In terms of all-round boxing ability I think he’ll be the best fighter he’s [Dubois] been in with. Parker can box on the back foot, he can come at you, he can rough it up a bit, good body puncher. With AJ he knew what he was gonna get, he’s a bit more upright whereas Parker can change the levels a bit easier.”

READ MORE;‘Had his day!’ – Daniel Dubois expecting victory over Joseph Parker in Riyadh

Parker, 35-3 (23 KOs), has embarked on an impressive winning run with trainer Andy Lee that has included triumphs against Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang, making him a major player once again in the heavyweight division.

“With Parker the key ingredient for me is Andy Lee,” Coldwell said.

“When Derek was in with Parker, Parker was winning the fight but looked like he could unravel at any moment. When he went back to the corner he’d come out the next round like Superman. Andy has been a huge factor in the reincarnation of Joseph Parker. If Parker was to beat Dubois I wouldn’t be shocked.”

“Dubois is strong, he’s going to be marauding, coming forward and he’s got a beautiful jab – we know all that,” he added.

“I wonder if Parker does frustrate him early doors and if that starts having an effect. I understand, though, Dubois being favourite on the back of the spectacular win over Joshua.”

 

Former undisputed welterweight champion Terence Crawford may have won every fight in the ring thus far. However, there was a time early in his career when a life-threatening incident nearly derailed his journey—and robbed the boxing world of a future legend. For Crawford, the memory of that ordeal remains deeply personal and sensitive.

Yet, a recent exchange with a fan appears to have resurfaced those painful memories, opening old wounds in the process. Rolling back time to 2008, when Crawford was a mere prospect with a professional record of 4-0. Times were humbler back then, away from the glitz and glamor associated with being a two-weight undisputed champion.

Surrounded by a handful of friends, ‘Bud’ was shooting dice under the glow of streetlights. A few rounds in, he had made some money and was satisfied with his winnings. Deciding to call it a night, he headed back to his 1986 Pontiac Cutlass Supreme. Instead of driving off, he lingered in the car, counting his profits—a decision he would come to regret.

Suddenly, a loud bang shattered the quiet night. A nine-millimeter bullet pierced through the rear window of his car, striking Crawford just behind the ear. Blood began to pour from the wound, but Crawford managed to drive himself to the hospital. There, he endured an agonizing wait of over five hours before finally receiving stitches.

READ MORE;Anthony Joshua Called Out For Shock Trilogy Showdown After Tyson Fury’s Retirement

Harrowing as it is, Crawford had lived through it! However, after a clip of ‘Bud’ wrestling someone during the Steven Nelson vs Diego Pacecho event in Las Vegas surfaced on X, one fan reopened Crawford’s wounds. The user commented on the clip, “Every day I understand more & more why this n***a got shot in the head.”

The unnecessary reminder of his past surrounded by gangs and violence didn’t sit well with Crawford, who retorted, “Every day I understand that you n***as is internet thugs.” The user came back with a response, suggesting he meant it as a complement to highlight people “can’t fight you fair cuz you’re Super***a.”

However, Crawford didn’t see it that way, writing, “Idk how you see a person getting shot is giving a compliment yall my people gotta do better.” Regardless, today, Crawford has bigger things to worry about—his potential blockbuster fight against Canelo Alvarez.

‘Bo Mac’ on rehydration clause for the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford fight

Terence Crawford’s trainer, Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, has dismissed the need for a rehydration clause in the potential super middleweight clash against Canelo Alvarez. Despite the significant size disparity—Canelo being a natural 168-pounder and Crawford recently moving up to 154 pounds—BoMac is confident in his fighter’s skills.

“We don’t give a damn about that, you can only get so big,” McIntyre told Ring Magazine. “If you get too big, then that is on him. I love Terence’s chances.” Rehydration clauses often limit how much weight a fighter can regain after the weigh-in, but Crawford’s team isn’t interested in such restrictions.

“That’s some bulls****, that is some weak s****,” BoMac added. “You accepted the fight, let’s fight as men.” This decision underscores Crawford’s confidence, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown without excuses, as both fighters prepare to meet on even terms.

That said, the user on social media definitely was prying at a wound Terence Crawford didn’t want to think about anymore. The exchange between the two just goes to show there are always some lines fans should avoid crossing. What did you think about their exchange?

ERNESTO MERCADO made some noise in more ways than one during his Matchroom debut in Las Vegas last night.

The 23-year-old super lightweight extended his unbeaten record to 17-0 (16 KOs) with a fourth-round stoppage victory over former two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza, 29-7-1 (14 KOs. Those brace of world titles, however, did come at super-featherweight and lightweight back in 2015 and 2018.

Nonetheless, Mercado knew he had to impress against the 35-year-old veteran and did so particularly at range. Pedraza may be nicknamed ‘Sniper’ but it was Mercado who picked off his target from distance targeting the body of his opponent throughout.

In his 37th contest Pedraza could do little but follow the unbeaten prospect around the ring. Mercado continued to look good, though, and in round three threw a wicked three-punch combination then forced Pedraza with another thudding shot downstairs to rubber stamp his superiority.

The Mercado jab was effective, too, but not utilised as often as it should have been but it mattered little because in round four ‘Tito’ picked off Pedraza with a counter-left which staggered Pedraza before a punch behind the ear sent the Puerto Rico down. Referee Robert Hoyle gave the count and Pedraza to his credit got back up but the unsteadiness of it was enough for Hoyle to wave the fight off.

“When I saw the perfect shot I took him out,” Mercado told DAZN’s Chris Mannix afterwards.

“He was scared. He was scared to get countered with a good shot like these other fighters that have got no power like Keyshawn [Davis], like Shakur [Stevenson].”

Stevenson and Davis both campaign one division below at lightweight but when asked what he wanted in 2025 Mercado made it clear by pointing to Stevenson, the current WBC 135lb champ, who was sat ringside.

“I want that punk right there sitting down in that blue sweatsuit,” Mercado said.

READ MORE;‘Like a fart in the wind’ – Wladimir Klitschko delivers unusual Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury prediction after sharing the ring with both

Stevenson responded immediately with his own verbal volleys but Mercado was the man on the mic.

“I’ll wide that gap between your teeth,” he said.

“Richardson Hitchins, who won the IBF [super lightweight title], I’m willing to whoop his ass first if this p***y ass is scared to fight me next.”

Prior to Mercado’s victory his Uncle Israel, 11-1-2 (7 KOs), earned an unexpected majority draw against the Robert Garcia-trained Leonardo Rubalcava, 9-0-1 (3 KOs). Described as an “audition” for Rubalcava by the DAZN commentary team promoter Eddie Hearn may have been unsure whether to offer a contract after a lacklustre display from the unbeaten super lightweight.

Mercado was on the floor in round one and later deducted a point in round seven for repeated low blows. But ‘Bad Ways’ Mercado did some good overall and proved to be a nightmare for Rubalcava with a relentless, awkward style that deserved more than the majority draw verdict after the eight-round televised opener.

Oleksandr Usyk’s bold opinion on a hypothetical fight between Mike Tyson and Anthony Joshua has ignited passionate debates in the boxing world

Oleksandr Usyk speaks to the media while sitting in front of a ‘Ukraine Wow: Mazepa’s Saber’ in a post fight after the IBF, IBO, WBA, WBC and WBO Undisputed World Heavyweight titles’ fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury.

A recent statement by Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, has caused a stir in the boxing world. When asked who would win in a hypothetical matchup between a prime Mike Tyson and Anthony Joshua, Usyk did not hesitate to name his pick.

Usyk’s comments have sparked an exciting debate, reaffirming boxing’s ability to ignite great passions. While we’ll never know for sure who would have emerged victorious in such a matchup, his opinion encourages reflection on the qualities that define a great boxer and highlights the richness and complexity of the sport.

Oleksandr Usyk’s response is certain to divide fans. Tyson’s supporters will argue that his ferocious knockout power would have been overwhelming, while Joshua’s backers will point to the Briton’s technical prowess and adaptability as deciding factors.

READ MORE;Did Donald Trump save Mike Tyson’s life 30 years ago? Here is the whole story behind the Trump-Tyson friendship

Usyk: Who would win between Tyson and Joshua?

Having defeated Anthony Joshua twice, Usyk’s perspective carries weight. In a round of “Winner Stays On” with MailSport Boxing, Usyk confidently stated: “Anthony Joshua.” His conclusion draws from his deep knowledge of the sport and personal experience in the ring with Joshua.

A debate that ignites passions

Known for his technical brilliance and boxing IQ, Usyk likely views Joshua as a more versatile and adaptable fighter, capable of neutralizing Tyson’s aggressive style. The Ukrainian champion has consistently demonstrated his ability to study and exploit his opponents’ weaknesses, which may shape his view of this hypothetical clash.

Ultimately, the question of who would win between Tyson and Joshua remains unanswered. Both fighters were exceptional in their own ways, with contrasting styles and legacies. Usyk’s statement reminds us of boxing‘s enduring allure, as fans continue to celebrate the complexity and beauty of the sport.

Zhilei Zhang has fought some notable names over the course of his boxing career, including top names like Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua.

Zhang defeated Wilder with a violent knockout in his last fight on June 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the Chinese powerhouse squared off against Anthony Joshua in the 2012 London Olympics.

They met in the quarter-finals of the London games and Joshua dropped Zhang before earning a win. Despite that, Zhang reckons no one hits harder than ‘The Bronze Bomber’, Deontay Wilder.

Wilder notably landed only 16 punches during his fight against Zhang. The Alabama native, however, was able to give Zhang an estimate of his legendary power. Speaking to talkSPORT, Zhang said:

Right now it is Deontay Wilder. He hits very hard, I got caught with a big punch in the fifth round but I managed to take it and knock him out

Zhilei Zhang will take on the undefeated Agit Kabayel in his next fight on February 22, which is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Zhang also expressed interest in taking on Joshua in the professional circuit, saying:

READ MORE;Anthony Joshua Called Out For Shock Trilogy Showdown After Tyson Fury’s Retirement

If Joshua wants to fight me after the Kabayel fight then we can talk. He hasn’t wanted to rematch me before, let’s see about now.

Anthony Joshua, meanwhile, suffered a brutal knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in his last fight. Joshua was aiming for a Tyson Fury fight but ‘The Gypsy King’ retired. AJ’s next opponent in the ring is yet to be finalized.

Daniel Dubois insists he respects Joseph Parker’s form, but believes the New Zealander has “had his day” before next month’s bout.

The two co-headline Riyadh Season’s The Last Crescendo, with Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol’s undisputed light-heavyweight rematch.

  • Read more | Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker: Date, start time, TV channel and live stream

Parker is bidding to become a two-time world champion, taking aim at the IBF crown Dubois defended against Anthony Joshua last year.

But despite his current rich run of form, the Briton feels that the New Zealander’s time has gone to sit at the top of the pile.

“I respect that he’s been on form for the last couple of fights”, he told DAZN‘s Face-Off. “But I think he’s had his day, in my opinion.

“I’ll rise to the occasion, whatever it is. I’ll be better than in every department. Strength, speed, yeah. I’m ready to fight

“[It is the] same s—t, [on a ] different day. I’m ready to fight, by any means necessary.”

Dubois is looking to set up a potential unification bout with Oleksandr Usyk, having previously lost to the Ukrainian in 2023.

But Parker could well lock in a shot should he get past the Briton, having last been world champion in 2018 before a loss to Joshua.

 

Matchroom Boxing boss Eddie Hearn attracted plenty of attention last summer when he stated that pound-for-pound great Floyd Mayweather was continuing to box in exhibition contests because he wasn’t actually as rich as he likes to claim he is.

For a man that calls himself ‘Money’ those comments were never going to sit well with Floyd. As a result, once Mayweather found out that Hearn was in his home city of Las Vegas visiting a local boxing gym earlier this week, a face-to-face meeting between the pair was inevitable.

If anyone is qualified to speak about finances in modern day boxing, then it’s Hearn who fronts one of the biggest promotional companies on the planet. Mayweather, though was having none of the idea that his riches have been in any way exaggerated.

Eddie Hearn Jokes His Way Out of a Confrontation With Floyd Mayweather

‘Money’ Mayweather is believed to be worth $400 million – but Hearn doesn’t buy it.

Footage of their encounter has now emerged – and it had a surprisingly friendly tone. Floyd even admitted that “he likes Eddie” before going on to explain how he had heard about Hearn’s comments on this financial situation.

“I don’t have social media on my phone, so they showed me Eddie, and Eddie was like “Floyd Mayweather ain’t got no money, that’s why he doing exhibitions!”

Hearn has previously been very vocal about Mayweather’s financial situation, despite the two not having an official working relationship within the sport. The 45-year-old promoter has not only questioned some of Floyd’s reported income figures, but has also cast doubt over how much of whatever he has earned is left in the bank, given the American’s extravagant spending habits.

READ MORE;Hayabusa and Floyd Mayweather Drop Exclusive Boxing Gear

The British matchmaker isn’t the only one to pose these questions, either. In the build-up to his August 2017 mega-fight with Mayweather, UFC superstar Conor McGregor continually hinted at Floyd having trouble paying his taxes.

Since winning that fight and retiring with a record of 50-0, Mayweather has reportedly raked in millions by fighting prominent names such as YouTuber and WWE Superstar, Logan Paul, British reality TV star Aaron Chalmers, and former MMA fighter, John Gotti III.

Synopsis

Mike Tyson and Donald Trump’s alliance in the late 1980s saw Trump guiding Tyson’s career post his 1988 victory. Trump’s involvement bolstered Tyson’s dominance while controversy and loyalty marked their relationship. Despite challenges, including Tyson’s conviction and Trump’s presidential campaign backlash, their mutual support remained unwavering, showcasing a unique bond.

In a story that reads like a Hollywood script, the bond between two of America’s most polarizing figures—boxing legend Mike Tyson and former U.S. President Donald Trump—has resurfaced, reigniting questions about their extraordinary alliance in the late 1980s. Could it be that Trump, in his unique way, saved Tyson’s life and career at a crucial juncture?

The Knockout That Changed Everything

It all began in July 1988, when Mike Tyson delivered a jaw-dropping 91-second knockout against Michael Spinks, a previously undefeated heavyweight and Olympic gold medalist. The fight, organized by Donald Trump to promote his Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, became the highest-grossing live event in sports at the time. Trump reportedly spent $11 million to set up the event, which brought in $12 million in ticket sales and an additional $15 million in gambling revenue for his casino.

READ MORE;Reason Why Mike Tyson spends part of the millions he won in his fight against Jake Paul on a mansion

But for Tyson, the night wasn’t just about victory—it marked a turning point in his career. Hours after the fight, Tyson fired his long-time manager Bill Cayton, accusing him of mishandling finances. In the chaos that followed, Tyson turned to Trump, who stepped in as his chief strategist and adviser.

Trump’s Role in Tyson’s Career

Donald Trump, then a real estate tycoon with a flair for the spotlight, saw an opportunity to guide the heavyweight champion’s career. As confirmed by a 1988 New York Times report, Trump announced, “Mike Tyson has asked me, and I have agreed, to serve jointly with regard to future decisions about Mike Tyson’s career.”

Trump’s involvement wasn’t purely altruistic. The partnership solidified Trump’s presence in the world of boxing while Tyson’s dominance in the sport.

Despite their initial camaraderie, the relationship between Tyson and Trump was not without controversy. Rumors swirled about an alleged affair between Trump and Tyson’s then-wife, Robin Givens, adding tension to an already complicated dynamic.

When Tyson was convicted of rape in 1992, Trump was one of the few public figures to advocate for him, Despite their initial camaraderie, the relationship between Tyson and Trump was not without controversy. Rumors swirled about an alleged affair between Trump and Tyson’s then-wife, Robin Givens, adding tension to an already complicated dynamic.

When Tyson was convicted of rape in 1992, Trump was one of the few public figures to advocate for him, suggesti ..

Anthony Joshua has been called out for a shock trilogy fight as Tyson Fury showdown looks impossible.

Anthony Joshua’s hopes of fighting Tyson Fury in 2025 seem impossible at this point. ‘The Gypsy King’ shockingly announced on social media that he is hanging up the gloves on January 13th.

Joshua last fought Daniel Dubois in September 2024 and suffered a devastating knockout loss.

He has now been called out by former opponent Dillian Whyte. Joshua fought Whyte in 2015 and earned a fifth-round knockout win. The British pair also collided in the amateur scene where Whyte won after knocking Joshua down.

Whyte, 36, is interested in setting up part three. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said:

[Joshua] Sounds perfect for me. They don’t need to ask me twice. They talk about me as an option, but they haven’t said anything to me, so it’s just negotiation tactics from them. But I’m up for the fight and I’m ready to fight again. If he wants to fight, then all they’ve got to do is call me. I’m always up for fighting AJ. No problem for me. However, personally, I think he’s finished.

Whyte further claimed that AJ made a mistake by not taking an immediate rematch against Daniel Dubois. He said:

READ MORE;Anthony Joshua Fought Both Daniel Dubois And Joseph Parker And Now Makes ‘Big’ Fight Prediction

I think he made a huge mistake not taking the immediate rematch with Dubois. It was a world title fight, a great payday and the perfect opportunity to avenge his knockout loss. He will forever have to suffer the memes of being face-planted at Wembley by Dubois.

Anthony Joshua has shared twelve rounds with Joseph Parker and five with Daniel Dubois, and will be ringside when the two face off in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia next month.

Joshua beat Parker to unify the heavyweight titles back in 2018. Though the New Zealander lost a unanimous decision, he became the first man to force ‘AJ’ to go the full distance, showing a grit that would continue to serve him as he made his comeback.

Since then, Parker has lost to Dillian Whyte and Joe Joyce, but recent wins over big punchers Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang set him up for a shot at the IBF belt, currently held by Dubois.

Dangerous Heavyweight Being Considered For Anthony Joshua's Next Fight Vows  To KO AJ In 1 Round - Seconds Out‘Dynamite’ Dubois was elevated to full champion after beating Filip Hrgovic and made the first defence of his title in emphatic fashion, battering Joshua at Wembley Stadium and stopping him in the fifth.

With both men in fine form, the title clash is an excellent start to 2025 for the sport’s biggest division. Joshua is well-placed to pick a winner, and has announced a prediction challenge with Riyadh Season’s Turki Alalshikh.

“22nd of February. It’s gonna be big. Make sure you tune in. I’m actually gonna come out to Saudi and watch the fight between Joseph Parker and Daniel Dubois. Good luck to both men. Me and His Excellency, we have an agreement. He picks his side, I pick my side and we see who wins.”

‘AJ’ then backed Parker to win the fight and become a two-time world champion. He may well then target a rematch, having made it clear that he is looking to hold a belt once more.

 

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