What a year in some ways 2024 was for boxing but 2025 promises to be the much bigger year of the two with some great fights to look forward to.
2024 produced some excellent fights and of course fighters.
Gareth Davies and Adam Catterall talked the 2024 Fighter of the Year on Talk Sport mentioning:
“Let’s approach this in two parts. First, we’ll concentrate on British fighters, and then we’ll expand our focus globally.
Among British and Irish fighters, several names stand out for having exceptional years.
First and foremost, Daniel Dubois deserves recognition. He’s had an outstanding year, defeating the likes of Filip Hrgović and knocking out Anthony Joshua. That’s no small feat—claiming the IBF heavyweight title in an era dominated by talents like Oleksandr Usyk. Dubois checked every box in 2024, capturing a major belt and delivering impressive performances.
Anthony Cacace also had a strong year. He scored significant victories over Joe Cordina and Josh Warrington, showcasing his brilliance in both fights.
Nick Ball put together a solid year as well. Although he had a draw against Vargas, he bounced back by defeating Raymond Ford and successfully defending his title against Rios.
Jack Catterall deserves a mention, too. He had a remarkable year, securing victories over both Josh Taylor and Regis Prograis.
Overall, while several fighters had notable performances, Daniel Dubois stands out as the British Fighter of the Year. His achievements in 2024 were truly exceptional.
Shifting to the international stage, a few fighters deserve the spotlight for their incredible years.
Even though Tank (Gervonta Davis) only fought once in 2024, his impact on the sport remains profound. His victory was a testament to his skill and significance in boxing.
Terence Crawford had a standout year as well. His victory over Israel Madrimov in Los Angeles was a masterclass, proving once again why he is considered one of the pound-for-pound best.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez also impressed this year. His victory over Juan Francisco Estrada cemented his place as one of the top fighters.
David Benavidez had a solid year, demonstrating his dominance and earning his spot in the conversation for Fighter of the Year.
Junto Nakatani made waves in 2024 with three significant victories at 118 pounds, further solidifying his reputation.
Both Beterbiev and Bivol had remarkable years. Beterbiev kicked off the year by defeating Callum Smith and later secured a win against Bivol. Their performances elevated the light heavyweight division to new heights.
Usyk’s dominance continues to set him apart. In 2024, he defeated Tyson Fury twice, cementing his status as one of the all-time greats. His wins against a larger, heavier, and equally skilled Fury are nothing short of legendary.”
Adding later:
“Ultimately, my pick for Fighter of the Year is Oleksandr Usyk. His back-to-back victories over Tyson Fury, a fighter with an immense size and reach advantage, highlight his unparalleled skills and ring IQ.
Usyk now joins the pantheon of heavyweight greats—names like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Rocky Marciano. His accomplishments in 2024 solidify his place in boxing history as a generational talent.”
There you have it.
A strong line-up from them as always, well-thought-out and some good balance there.
Usyk for most people was the fighter of the year and for many is also the best fighter pound for pound on the planet right now in boxing.
What a year ahead.
Roll on.
