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Matchroom Statement on Anthony Joshua's condition.

#anthonyjoshua #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 10:46 PM
Anthony Joshua Crash Impact.

An image shows the Nigerian crash impact, according to eye witness reports and wreckage damage.

Two passengers to one side were given little chance and died almost instantly.

Joshua and the driver avoided major injury.

#anthonyjoshua #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 9:34 PM
ANTHONY JOSHUA UPDATE 🇳🇬

The violent car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway took the lives of two of AJ's friends, named by Chris Eubank Jr. as Latz and Sina.

Both worked with AJ on the Jake Paul fight.

Our thoughts are with the families.

#anthonyjoshua #boxing #fb
December 29, 2025 at 6:12 PM
This is the vehicle Anthony Joshua was traveling in.

Two people didn't survive. AJ was sitting behind the driver.

If he'd have chosen to sit in the front, he may not have made it out with his life.

📸 @FRSCNigeria

#anthonyjoshua #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 4:17 PM
They know all about each other. 🥊

Gilberto Ramirez vs David Benavidez will be some fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend in Las Vegas. 🎰

#BenavidezRamirez #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 3:28 PM
Anthony Joshua Survives Deadly Car Crash in Nigeria – Two Killed https://www.worldbox... #AnthonyJoshua #boxing
Anthony Joshua Survives Deadly Car Crash in Nigeria – Two Killed
Anthony Joshua, 36, narrowly escaped serious injury today after a violent car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Makun, Nigeria, that claimed the lives of two people. The Lexus SUV carrying the former heavyweight world champion collided with a stationary truck shortly after 11 am, leaving the vehicle badly damaged and Joshua dazed but conscious. A video posted by World Boxing News of the aftermath has shocked social media. Quick Facts at a Glance Time: Shortly after 11 am, 29 December 2025 Location: Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Makun, Ogun State, Nigeria Vehicle: Lexus SUV Occupants: Four in the Lexus; Joshua seated behind the driver Casualties: Joshua sustained minor injuries; two people died at the scene Security: Joshua’s team followed in a separate vehicle Eyewitness & Official Response: Local eyewitnesses and the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived within minutes Joshua Escapes with Minor Injuries Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene. Joshua was seated behind the driver, with a passenger beside him and another in the front seat. Security personnel in a following vehicle immediately assisted, directing passing motorists to help stabilize the wreckage. One witness said, “It was terrifying. I helped get people out of the wreckage before the authorities arrived. Joshua was conscious but visibly shaken.” Promoter Statement Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, commented from a family holiday to the Daily Mail: “I awoke to the news of this incident. “We are trying to contact Anthony, and in the meantime, we don’t want to speculate on how he is, but thankfully, he appears OK from what I have seen in the images. We are awaiting more information on what has happened and will update in due course.” Joshua’s Pre-Crash Activity Hours before the crash, Joshua shared an Instagram story showing him playing table tennis with long-time friend Kevin Ayodele, captioned “Healthy mindset dishing out table tennis smoke.” The clip shows how high-spirited the boxer was before the incident. Joshua traveled to Nigeria after his sixth-round knockout of YouTuber Jake Paul in Miami earlier this month. He is scheduled to fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in February, continuing his return to the ring after a brief hiatus. Public Reaction Fans worldwide reacted with shock and relief, posting messages wishing Joshua a full recovery while mourning the lives lost. Verified social media accounts highlighted both the tragedy and the boxer’s fortunate survival. This story is developing. WBN will provide verified updates as authorities release more information. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 29, 2025 at 1:30 PM
Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria.

Two people are reported to have died.

Joshua survived.

More to follow on WBN.

#AnthonyJoshua #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 1:03 PM
The passing of this man, still fresh after only a few months, remains a terrible loss for the sport. 🥊

No one hit quite like Big George Foreman, inside and outside of the ring. 👊💥

#georgeforeman #boxing
December 29, 2025 at 12:21 PM
42-0 Abel Mendoza Survives Texas Shooting, Bullet Damage Captured on Video https://www.worldbox... #AbelMendoza #boxing
42-0 Abel Mendoza Survives Texas Shooting, Bullet Damage Captured on Video
42-0 Abel Mendoza narrowly survived a life-threatening Texas shooting, with verified video showing bullet holes in his car as he continued his unbeaten path toward elite competition. The boxer said the situation unfolded while picking up a friend. “Dodged a bullet yesterday literally,” Mendoza wrote on Instagram alongside the video. No shots are visible in the footage, but the damage is consistent with gunfire. Authorities have not yet confirmed the circumstances. Career Momentum Meets Off-Ring Danger The incident comes at a critical point for Mendoza, the 42-0 boxer from Fort Stockton, Texas, who recently signed with TGB Promotions and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to fast-track his path toward elite competition. While the Texas shooting drew immediate concern, Mendoza has faced threats before. Earlier this year, he escaped a kidnapping and robbery ordeal in Colombia, where his personal belongings were stolen, but he managed to flee unharmed. “It’s hard to write this, but I want to thank God not for this victory but for giving me the strength to escape after being kidnapped and robbed in Colombia,” Mendoza said. He described the experience as life-altering, motivating him to continue pursuing a world title despite online criticism and scrutiny over his unbeaten record. His focus remains on stepping up in competition rather than chasing records like Floyd Mayweather’s 50-0, a milestone he has acknowledged but is not fixated on. 42-0 Premier Boxing Champions fighter Abel Mendoza posted a video of himself being caught in the crossfire of a shooting incident in Texas. Mendoza posed with a bullet-ridden vehicle after stating he ‘almost died again’ following claims he was kidnapped and robbed in Colombia… pic.twitter.com/rrThOnBNzO — World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) December 29, 2025 Fan Reaction and Ongoing Questions Reaction to the Texas video was immediate. Fans expressed relief that Mendoza appeared unharmed, while others were shocked by the frequency of dangerous incidents. One wrote, “Bro, how are you constantly finding yourself in these situations? Glad you’re alright though.” Mendoza later updated his status: “Almost died again,” heightening concern over his safety. No police report or official statement has been released, and Mendoza has not provided further clarification beyond the footage. As he prepares to advance under the PBC banner, attention remains on whether Mendoza can maintain his unbeaten record against elite opposition — and whether off-ring risks will finally subside. World Boxing News will provide updates should further information become available. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 29, 2025 at 10:43 AM
THE. BEST. FIGHTER. OF. THE. YEAR 🏆

World Boxing News will crown Naoya Inoue the WBN Fighter of the Year for the second time in two years.

Story to follow.

#boxing #fb #inoue
December 28, 2025 at 11:41 PM
🚨 0-1 Pro boxer Conor McGregor hints at White House return to MMA next year.

McGregor has barely fought since earning tens of millions of dollars when facing Floyd Mayweather in the ring over eight years ago. 🥊

#boxing #conormcgregor
December 28, 2025 at 6:10 PM
FLOYD GOING FOR 5️⃣1️⃣-0️⃣?

Floyd Mayweather didn't rule out a pro return in 2026 when speaking to TMZ earlier this year.

#floydmayweather #boxing

As WBN reported exclusively, Indistry Media says they hold the rights to stage a rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao.

#MayPac2 #boxing
December 28, 2025 at 4:48 PM
Ike Ibeabuchi’s historic comeback ends with first career loss to 16-loss cruiserweight https://www.worldbox... #IkeIbeabuchi #boxing
Ike Ibeabuchi’s historic comeback ends with first career loss to 16-loss cruiserweight
Ike Ibeabuchi, 52, suffered the first professional defeat of his career on December 24, falling to 45-year-old cruiserweight Kabiru “KB Godson” Towolawi in Lagos. What had been billed as a historic comeback—pursuing a record-breaking milestone to surpass George Foreman as the oldest heavyweight champion and even publicly calling out Oleksandr Usyk—ended with a humbling outcome against a regional veteran with a 27–16 record. The Unexpected Outcome Towolawi, a durable and experienced fighter in Nigerian boxing circles, demonstrated tactical discipline to outpoint Ibeabuchi throughout the bout. Despite Ike’s raw power and decades of elite-level experience, the fight highlighted the physical challenges of returning after a long layoff and the limits of age, even for a fighter of his caliber. For a man who had publicly aimed for Usyk and a late-career heavyweight milestone, the loss underscores how unpredictable comebacks can be. Debuting in 2016, Towolawi has competed in 43 professional bouts, winning 22 by knockout. While his record includes 16 losses, his persistence, ring intelligence, and ability to capitalize on opportunities made him a formidable opponent. Defeating a former heavyweight star like Ibeabuchi gives Towolawi a rare international spotlight and marks a career-defining victory. Ibeabuchi’s Comeback Story Fails Before the fight, Ibeabuchi’s comeback story was framed around redemption and late-career ambition. He had aimed to surpass Foreman’s record as the oldest heavyweight champion and publicly sought high-profile opponents like Usyk. The outcome serves as a stark reminder that even boxing legends face limits, and ambition alone cannot overcome decades away from the sport. “After a thrilling battle, Kabiru Towolawi emerges victorious in the championship fight. This historic bout marks the first professional defeat of Ike Ibeabuchi after an intense and competitive contest,” said promoters Prizefighting.tv. “Respect to both warriors for delivering a true championship fight.” The loss tempers Ike’s comeback narrative but underscores the unpredictability of boxing and the human side of the sport. Towolawi’s victory, while not a global upset, is significant as the man who ended a 52-year-old’s undefeated streak, adding a rare chapter to heavyweight history. For Ike, the fight is a cautionary tale about ambition, age, and the realities of returning to elite competition after decades away. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 28, 2025 at 2:39 PM
Adrien Broner ‘Needs Another Intervention’ After Troubling Social Media Videos https://www.worldbox... #AdrienBroner #boxing
Adrien Broner ‘Needs Another Intervention’ After Troubling Social Media Videos
Adrien Broner, the former world champion whose career has been repeatedly interrupted by personal struggles, may now require a second formal intervention after posting a series of troubling social media videos. The most recent clip shows him disheveled and asking a crude question, while a few days earlier, he shared an explicit video showing him out of shape. These posts circulated quickly online, drawing reactions of alarm and disappointment, and reigniting discussions about his ongoing struggles inside and outside the ring. Fan Reactions Highlight Concern and Disbelief Fans expressed worry, criticism, and disappointment over Broner’s appearance and behavior, reflecting the tension between his past success and current difficulties. Responses included: “Why do you keep doing creepy things?” “He needs an intervention. Somebody please get him some help.” “Lost cause.” “Bro, get in shape, start a business, and get that life back together. You can’t be letting yourself and your family down year after year like this. Leverage your reach and contacts. Come on, put some respect for your name again, you can do it now.” “Start paying your child support, be responsible.” “You’re a sad case. You need help.” “He’s going to be 15 years old his entire life. Was hoping for a serious comeback.” “Broner, are you still gambling?” “This guy is focusing on the wrong thing.” “Bro, get in shape. You are so sorry now, it’s pathetic.” Other fans shared longer messages that expressed empathy and concern, highlighting the contrast between Broner’s previous achievements and his current struggles. One follower wrote in Spanish: “Ten minutes ago, I saw a video of you boxing for the first time. I didn’t know who you were; I didn’t even know you existed. “After looking you up on Google, I see that lately, life isn’t going well for you. You should repent for your sins and try to start a life that truly fulfills you. “I wish your situation improves. Peace.” A New Chapter in a Recurring Pattern This is not the first time Broner’s health and lifestyle have raised serious concerns. He was previously hospitalized in July 2021 and again in March 2022, posting a video of himself in a wheelchair stating, “I’ll get through it!” Fans and insiders viewed these events as requiring intervention. The recent social media posts suggest his struggles remain unaddressed. On November 5, 2025, Broner returned to the gym and appeared focused, but the effort was short-lived. Days later, he posted the explicit clip showing him out of shape, followed by the disheveled video mentioned earlier. This sequence underscores a year-long pattern of setbacks repeatedly interrupting his career. WBN has previously documented challenges, including extended breaks from training, financial struggles, public controversies, and erratic behavior. Highlights from recent coverage include: Broner returning to the gym after a 17-month hiatus (WBN, August 2025) Accusations of demanding drinks for photographs in Las Vegas (WBN, October 2025) Reports of selling Instagram stories for $350 to cover financial shortfalls Multiple incidents of public intoxication and inappropriate conduct Recurring concerns from fans about gambling, personal priorities, and lifestyle choices Talent vs. Setbacks While Broner has yet to respond to the latest videos publicly, the posts underscore an ongoing pattern. Despite his immense natural talent, he continues to face setbacks that prevent him from realizing his potential. Observers and longtime fans note that his career trajectory risks being defined more by off-ring problems than by boxing achievements. These videos, combined with his prior hospitalizations, suggest this could warrant a second formal intervention to address his personal struggles. The reactions also highlight the pressures faced by former champions and the impact of public scrutiny on mental health. Fans remain vocal, urging him to take steps toward stability, personal growth, and a possible return to form. Despite these setbacks, Broner remains a former four-division world champion whose skills once made him one of boxing’s most electrifying talents. Time will tell if he can reclaim even a fraction of that promise. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 28, 2025 at 12:45 PM
The updated WBN Pound for Pound Top 10 after Night of Samurai.

Naoya Inoue back on top.

#poundforpound #boxing
December 27, 2025 at 4:34 PM
Inoue Reclaims P4P Top Spot With Picasso Win https://www.worldbox... #InouePicasso #boxing
Inoue Reclaims P4P Top Spot With Picasso Win
Naoya Inoue dominated David Picasso in Riyadh to cap a historic year, completing four undisputed super bantamweight title defenses for the first time since Muhammad Ali and earning WBN Fighter of the Year honors. At The Ring V: Night of the Samurai in Saudi Arabia, the undefeated Japanese star showcased speed, precision, and power, leaving Picasso unable to mount a meaningful offense and reaffirming his status at the top of boxing. From the opening bell, Inoue controlled the pace, mixing sharp jabs, angled hooks, and precise body shots. Picasso showed determination but was unable to disrupt the champion’s rhythm or land any significant counters. Official Scores Confirm Inoue’s Dominance Judges scored the bout 120-108, 119-109, and 117-111 for Inoue. WBN’s live observation mirrored the official results, tallying a 120-108 sweep. Throughout the fight, Inoue demonstrated mastery of distance, timing, and combinations, keeping Picasso on the defensive while controlling every round. “This wasn’t my best performance, but I need a long rest,” said Inoue, who will get a few months off before battling Junto Nakatani next year. A Historic Night for the ‘Monster’ The victory was more than a defense—it was a statement of superiority. By reclaiming the pound-for-pound crown from Oleksandr Usyk, Inoue reinforced his dominance and proved why he is regarded as one of boxing’s finest. His composure, technique, and consistency throughout the fight were on full display. The win extends Inoue’s unbeaten streak and solidifies his standing in the super bantamweight division. Analysts are already speculating on potential future matchups against top-tier fighters. This performance further enhances his reputation and sets the stage for another career-defining chapter. Full Event Coverage The Riyadh card also featured a stacked undercard showcasing the sport’s rising talent. Fans seeking complete results and confirmed outcomes can visit the WBN results page for a full recap of every undercard fight. Naoya Inoue’s performance at The Ring V was decisive and methodical, proving his continued supremacy in the super bantamweight division. The ‘Monster’ remains unbeaten, on top of the world, and firmly reestablished as the pound-for-pound king. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 27, 2025 at 3:01 PM
December 27, 2025 at 2:28 PM
Saudi Judge’s Shocking Score Sparks Outrage as Nakatani Beats Hernandez
Saudi Judge’s Shocking Score Sparks Outrage as Nakatani Beats Hernandez
Junto Nakatani retained his super bantamweight title in Riyadh after a competitive 12-round bout with Sebastian Hernandez, but the official scorecard from Saudi Arabian judge Nawaf Almohaimeed caused immediate controversy. Almohaimeed awarded Nakatani a shockingly wide 118-110 victory, a tally widely criticized as “disgraceful” and unrepresentative of the action in the ring. The other two judges scored the fight 115-113 for Nakatani, closely matching World Boxing News’ unofficial tally of 115-113. The WBN round-by-round assessment had Nakatani winning 7 rounds to 5, highlighting how Hernandez earned several rounds with consistent pressure, precise combinations, and effective counters. Nakatani beats Hernandez Nakatani started strongly, controlling the early rounds with clean, precise combinations and well-timed uppercuts. In Round 6, he landed a punishing double uppercut that visibly shook Hernandez. Hernandez, however, refused to relent, forcing the first point of the bout in Round 7 and steadily increasing his output through the mid and late rounds. By Rounds 9–12, Hernandez’s relentless pressure and accuracy made several rounds extremely close, yet Almohaimeed’s 118-110 card ignored these decisive moments. The bout showcased Nakatani’s technical skill, ring intelligence, and ability to control distance, but Hernandez proved he could compete at the highest level, landing significant combinations and refusing to be dominated. Analysts and fans widely criticized Almohaimeed’s score, calling it excessively generous to Nakatani and raising questions about judging consistency in professional boxing. Lessons Learned Despite the controversy, Nakatani’s victory is legitimate, reaffirming his championship credentials. Hernandez’s performance, particularly in the second half of the fight, elevated his stock and demonstrated his resilience against a world-class opponent. After the fight, Nakatani reflected on the challenge, stating he had learned valuable lessons from the bout and recognized areas for growth despite securing the win. The fight serves as a reminder of the importance of fair judging and the skill both fighters brought to the ring. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with over 15 years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 27, 2025 at 1:35 PM
Naoya Inoue vs Alan Picasso – Live Scorecard & Round Updates https://www.worldbox... #InouePicasso #boxing
December 27, 2025 at 1:33 PM
Official Nakatani vs Hernandez scorecards.

The Saudi Arabian judge caused massive controversy in Riyadh.

#nakatanihernandez #boxing
December 27, 2025 at 1:26 PM
December 27, 2025 at 1:04 PM
LIVE: Inoue vs Picasso Undercard Results | Nakatani vs Hernandez Scorecard https://www.worldbox... #NakataniHernandez #boxing
LIVE: Inoue vs Picasso Undercard Results | Nakatani vs Hernandez Scorecard
Naoya Inoue vs Alan Picasso live results from Riyadh, as boxing’s only reigning male undisputed champion defends all five super bantamweight titles at The Ring V: Night of the Samurai. World Boxing News provides real-time updates, official results, and live scorecards from the Riyadh Season event, promoted by SELA, Matchroom Boxing, and The Ring Magazine, and broadcast worldwide on DAZN. Inoue vs Picasso Live Results Official results will appear here as they occur. Nakatani vs Hernandez Live Scorecard The live scorecard will refresh during the bout. Round-by-round updates and official scorecards will appear as the action unfolds. Junto Nakatani is moving up to super bantamweight for his divisional debut against Sebastian Hernandez. Round by Round WBN Score: Official Result: Event Start Times Fight night: Saturday, December 27 Venue: Mohammed Abdu Arena by Emirates NBD, Boulevard City, Riyadh Main Event Ring Walks Inoue vs Picasso: Approx. 8:00 a.m. ET | 1:00 p.m. UK | 4:00 p.m. local Nakatani vs Hernandez: Approx. 6:45 a.m. ET | 11:45 a.m. UK | 2:45 p.m. local Main Event Preview: Inoue vs Picasso Reigning undisputed super bantamweight champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue (31-0, 28 KOs) defends his Ring, WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles against unbeaten Mexican contender Alan Picasso (32-0-1). Inoue enters the bout as Japan’s current boxing superstar, looking to cement his position. At the same time, Picasso represents Mexico’s latest challenger seeking to disrupt Japan’s dominance at the elite level. The 12-round championship contest headlines The Ring V: Night of the Samurai in Riyadh. Full Fight Card – Night of the Samurai Naoya Inoue (31-0) vs Alan Picasso (32-0-1) 12 rounds – Ring, WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO World Super Bantamweight Titles Junto Nakatani (31-0) vs Sebastian Hernandez (20-0) 12 rounds – Super Bantamweight Contest Willibaldo Garcia vs Kenshiro Teraji Canceled – Garcia fell ill after the weigh-in. No replacement was available despite efforts to keep the bout on the card. Taiga Imanaga (9-0) vs Eridson Garcia (22-1) 10 rounds – Lightweight Contest Reito Tsutsumi (3-0) vs Leobardo Quintana Sanchez (12-1) 8 rounds – Super Featherweight Contest Press Conference Quotes Naoya Inoue “This bout is going to be really important for my future – and how I fight it will be crucial to becoming pound-for-pound No. 1. I will give 100 per cent. There is no chance that my belts are going back with him to Mexico.” Alan Picasso “On Saturday, it will not be the ‘Night of the Samurai’ – it is going to be an Azteca night. We represent Mexico, and bringing those belts home would make my country proud.” Junto Nakatani “I have been preparing 100 per cent, so you will see the best of me on December 27.” Sebastian Hernandez “I am very excited for this fight. I have prepared my best and will give everything.” How to Watch The Ring V: Night of the Samurai is broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Stay tuned to World Boxing News for live updates, official results, scorecards, and post-fight analysis. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with more than 15 years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 27, 2025 at 10:30 AM
Teofimo Lopez vs Shakur Stevenson undercard is confirmed:

🥊 Keyshawn Davis vs Jamaine Ortiz
🥊 Bruce Carrington vs Carlos Castro
🥊 Carlos Adames vs Austin Williams
🥊 Jarrell Miller vs Kingsley Ibeh
🥊 Ziyad Almaayouf vs Kevin Castillo

#TeoShakur #boxing
December 26, 2025 at 8:14 PM
Deontay Wilder Details Why Undisputed Fight with Anthony Joshua Collapsed https://www.worldbox... #WilderJoshua #boxing
Deontay Wilder Details Why Undisputed Fight with Anthony Joshua Collapsed
For the first time, Deontay Wilder has addressed in detail — and in his own words — the collapse of an undisputed heavyweight title fight with Anthony Joshua, confirming what World Boxing News reported in real time back in 2018. The clarification matters because the Joshua–Wilder saga has been repeatedly distorted over the years, with later negotiations and unrelated decisions used to blur the original timeline. Wilder’s recent remarks draw a clear line between what actually happened and what was later claimed, explaining precisely when — and why — the fight fell apart. The $50 Million Offer That Was Rejected In 2018, the WBO, IBF, and WBA champion, Joshua, publicly demanded a guaranteed $50 million to fight WBC ruler Wilder in the United States. That figure was met. As WBN exclusively reported at the time, Wilder’s team — backed by Showtime — produced a written term sheet confirming the offer. Wilder was authorized to make the proposal public after Joshua named his price. Speaking recently on Cigar Talk, Wilder confirmed that sequence, explaining that once Joshua requested the figure, sponsors and broadcasters immediately stepped forward, confident the fight would generate far more through pay-per-view and commercial revenue. Wilder said he was instructed to announce the offer publicly — a decision later questioned by critics, despite the existence of written documentation. That documentation was outlined by Wilder’s co-manager, Shelly Finkel, in a June 2018 WBN exclusive, in which he confirmed that Matchroom Boxing had received the terms but had never issued a response. Wembley Counteroffer Accepted — Then Silence After rejecting the U.S. offer, Joshua countered with a £15 million proposal to fight at Wembley Stadium. Contrary to popular belief, Wilder accepted those terms. As contracts were exchanged, Finkel requested clarification on two specific points, a routine part of negotiations at that level. According to WBN’s reporting at the time, no response was ever received. Shortly afterward, the World Boxing Association ordered Joshua to agree terms with mandatory challenger Alexander Povetkin. Rather than continue toward the undisputed fight, despite active negotiations, Joshua and promoter Eddie Hearn moved immediately toward the mandatory defense. The WBA Exception That Was Never Requested Hearn later cited pressure from the WBA as the reason the Wilder fight could not proceed. That explanation did not withstand scrutiny. In a second June 2018 WBN exclusive, Finkel revealed that Joshua never requested an exception from the WBA — something the organization had previously granted for major unification bouts, including Wladimir Klitschko’s. Finkel stated that had Joshua asked, the WBA would almost certainly have approved the Wilder fight over the mandatory defense. The sanctioning body, therefore, was not the obstacle it was later portrayed to be. When that fight was a draw, I told you that I would give you a rematch. You know I was offered more money to fight Joshua than I was getting to fight you. Again being a man of my word, I fought you like I said I would… — Deontay Wilder (@BronzeBomber) October 31, 2020 Where the Narrative Went Wrong The confusion surrounding Joshua vs. Wilder stems from comments made years later, during a different phase of both fighters’ careers. Promoter Lou DiBella has acknowledged that Wilder did decline a Joshua offer, but that occurred after the undisputed fight had already collapsed and during a later DAZN-era window. Joshua did not sign with DAZN until 2022, making those discussions unrelated to the $50 million Showtime offer, the Wembley acceptance, or the failed 2018 unification attempt. Those timelines were repeatedly merged, leading to a misunderstanding of how the original collapse occurred. Wilder’s Position — Then and Now Wilder has consistently maintained that he was willing to compromise, even accepting a lower financial structure than other champions had received, while remaining true to his word in subsequent fights. His position has not materially changed. What has changed is the clarity surrounding the sequence of events and the willingness to address them directly. A Fight That Finally Happened — Then Didn’t Wilder and Joshua eventually signed contracts to fight in December 2023, agreeing to face each other in a long-awaited matchup. Both fighters were placed in separate bouts on the same Day of Reckoning card, with the intention of meeting afterward. That plan unraveled when Wilder suffered a loss to Joseph Parker, while Joshua won his fight, ending any immediate path to the matchup. The proposed rescheduled fight for March 2024 never materialized. Instead, Joshua faced Francis Ngannou on the same night he had been expected to meet Wilder. The Record, Corrected Wilder’s recent comments do not rewrite history. They confirm it. World Boxing News reported the facts as they unfolded in 2018: – A $50 million offer was made in writing – A Wembley fight was accepted by Wilder – Clarifications were requested and ignored – No WBA exception was sought – Joshua chose a mandatory defense instead The later claim that Wilder “turned down” Joshua belongs to a different period, involving different broadcasters and different negotiations. With Wilder now addressing the collapse directly — and the modern chapter closed — the timeline is no longer in dispute. What remains is a clearer understanding of how long it took for the record to be accurately reflected. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
www.worldboxingnews.com
December 26, 2025 at 4:30 PM
Naoya Inoue Goes for P4P No.1 & Fighter of the Year https://www.worldbox... #FOTY #Inoue #boxing
Naoya Inoue Goes for P4P No.1 & Fighter of the Year
Naoya Inoue faces Alan Picasso tomorrow for pound-for-pound supremacy and WBN 2025 Fighter of the Year. Speaking at the press conference, Inoue emphasized the stakes and his focus on both legacy and WBN’s 2025 Fighter of the Year recognition. Discipline, Skill, and National Pride “This bout is going to be really important for my future – and how I fight it will be crucial to becoming pound-for-pound No. 1. So, I will give 100 per cent,” Inoue said. “There is no chance that my belts are going back with him [Alan Picasso] to Mexico. This is a critical fight in the Super Bantamweight division, which you will see on Saturday. I am ready.” Inoue highlighted the strength of Japanese fighters: “All Japanese fighters here have strong skills and a mindset. We will fight well and return home with victories.” Picasso, representing Mexico, stressed his preparation and national pride: “On Saturday, it will not be the ‘Night of the Samurai’ – it will be an Azteca night. We represent Mexico, and every fighter on this card is fighting for our people. We do it because of the blood running in our veins. “I’ve worked hard for this moment, run thousands of kilometers, and am proud of my preparation. Bringing those belts to Mexico would make my country proud, and I will not let them down.” Historic Four-Belt Defenses & Fighter of the Year A win tomorrow would mark Inoue’s fourth successful defense of his four-belt undisputed title in a single calendar year — a feat unmatched in the four-belt era. Historically, the last time anyone defended an undisputed crown four times in a year dates back to legends like Larry Holmes and Muhammad Ali. Holmes could have made four defenses in 1983, but the WBC did not sanction a fight with Marvis Frazier. Ali achieved it in 1976. This consistency and dominance are why WBN will award Inoue Fighter of the Year 2025 if he wins. Some may question why he is favored over Terence Crawford. ‘Bud’ has not fought enough to merit consideration, with his last high-profile win over a fading Canelo. Inoue, by contrast, has fought four times this year, defending his four belts each time — a combination of activity and success unmatched in modern boxing. Looking Ahead Tomorrow’s fight is about more than belts. For Inoue, it is a chance to make boxing history, claim pound-for-pound supremacy, and solidify his place among the sport’s elite. With stakes including WBN’s Fighter of the Year 2025 and the potential to surpass Usyk in the global rankings, Saturday promises high drama for fans worldwide. About the Author Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
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December 26, 2025 at 1:27 PM