Tag

BOXING

Browsing

Anthony Joshua staves off tears as he opens up on loss of friends in car crash

Anthony Joshua has opened up on the loss of two close friends as he issued a tearful message to the fans addressing his fatal car crash in Nigeria.

The boxing world united to pay tribute to Joshua’s former teammates Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele after both were killed in the accident near Lagos on 29 December.

‘AJ’, the former world heavyweight champion, appeared in agony as he was hauled out of the vehicle but was only left with minor injuries and has since returned to the gym in a bid to revisit his craft.

Anthony Joshua posts emotional first video message following tragic car crash

JUST IN: Gervonta Davis Arrest Ends With Same-Day Rele

Joshua issued an initial statement paying tribute to Ghami and Ayodele but has now taken to Instagram to speak more vulnerably to his fanbase.

“Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins their friends, and myself lose two great men. We lost people we dearly care about and have been major players in all of our lives,” Joshua said. “It’s tough, it’s really tough.

“I’m not going to sit here and show all of my emotions. I know in today’s day and age, it’s easy to micro-analyse as people and pass judgement but I know what I feel, and that’s what matters to me.

“I know what my duty is. They’re my brothers, they’re my friends, first and foremost. And then we became business partners. We became hustlers. We became lieutenants, we became generals. We became everything. We became housemates who were living together.”

It was the third post from Joshua since the accident, having first posted a shot of himself alongside family members, with a portrait shot of Ghami, before posting a touching written tribute.

As he staved off tears, Joshua added: “It is a shame, it’s a shame. So there’s that side of things. One day my time will come and I’m not scared at all. It’s actually comforting knowing I’ve got two brothers on the other side.

“I’ve lost people before but I don’t think I’ve lost people like that. My left and my right. Throughout this like journey that I’ve been on, they’ve been (here), it’s not easy.

“I’m the big guy, but I was walking with giants that kept me protected, kept me shielded. But the mission must go on. I understand my duty. I understand what they wanted to do for their families.

Anthony Joshua alongside former teammates Sina Ghami (left) and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele (right)
Anthony Joshua alongside former teammates Sina Ghami (left) and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele (right) (Instagram)

“So what my goal is, it’s to continue to help them achieve their goals, even though they may not be here in physical. When I pray at night, when I pray in the morning, I know spiritually they’re gonna aid me through because it’s not just physical strength that will get me through, it’s going to take a lot of strength from the higher power.

“I’m going to definitely be saying my prayers and I’m gonna help them fulfil their dreams for their families. Not only me, there’s a whole team of us, the the whole brotherhood, the whole sisterhood that will be helping fulfil their legacy and fulfil their dreams.”

Joshua also made sure to thank all those who had offered their support and love across social media, saying it was “all acknowledged”.

The crash came just 10 days after Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a fight in Miami.

Plans had been made for Joshua to fight again in February, likely in Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh Season boss Turki Alalshikh proposing a future fight in 2026 against long-time British rival Tyson Fury.

Gervonta Davis Arrest Ends With Same-Day Release on Bail

Gervonta Davis was arrested in Miami on Wednesday following a weeks-long search that began after authorities issued an arrest warrant tied to an alleged domestic incident in October.

The Miami Gardens Police Department confirmed that detectives, working in coordination with the United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, located Davis after tracking his movements across multiple counties. Officers observed Davis exiting a retail location in Miami’s Design District and took him into custody without incident.

Davis vs Garcia LA Press Conference 03.09.23 04 22 2023 Presser11

READ: How Gervonta Davis arrested by police, U.S. Marshals for Miami G

Police said Davis was charged with battery, false imprisonment, and attempted kidnapping. He was transported for warrant processing before being booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Facility.

Released on bail after brief custody
Court records show Davis was released on bail later the same day after spending a short period in custody. Bail was set at $16,000.

While the immediate legal process allowed for his release, the charges carry potential custodial consequences if the case proceeds, placing Davis’ immediate and long-term boxing future under serious uncertainty.

October incident and surveillance review
The charges stem from an alleged incident on October 27, 2025, at a Miami Gardens gentlemen’s club. Court documents identify the alleged victim as Courtney Rossel.

According to ESPN, surveillance footage from the venue was reviewed by investigators and corroborated elements of the account outlined in police filings. An active warrant was subsequently issued, and Davis remained at large for two weeks prior to his arrest. U.S. Marshals assisted local authorities during the search.

Civil case and championship status
In addition to the criminal charges, Davis faces a civil lawsuit filed by Rossel alleging battery, kidnapping, and emotional distress related to the same October incident, according to Local 10 News.

Court records indicate that multiple service attempts connected to the civil case were unsuccessful while the criminal warrant remained outstanding.

During that period, Davis’ status with the World Boxing Association was changed to “champion in recess.” President Gilberto Mendoza later reported that the organization stripped Davis of his lightweight title while he remained at large.

Career impact and prior legal history
The arrest led to the cancellation of a planned bout between Davis and Jake Paul.

Davis has faced prior legal issues, including a domestic violence case in 2020 and a 2023 conviction for leaving the scene of a crash that injured four people. He served a period of house arrest related to the latter case.

Miami Gardens Police stated that the investigation remains focused on victim protection and public safety.

Gervonta Davis arrested by police, U.S. Marshals for Miami Gardens domestic violence incident

Professional boxer Gervonta “Tank” Davis was arrested Wednesday in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident from last year, officials said.

Miami Gardens Police announced that Davis, 31, was taken into custody without incident in Miami’s Design District by Special Investigations officers and the U.S. Marshals fugitive task force.

Boxer Gervonta Davis gets corrections department escort as he bonds out of  jail

JUST IN: Tyson Fury comeback fight announced as he returns April 11 on Ne

Davis faces charges of battery, false imprisonment and attempted kidnapping, police said.

“The Miami Gardens Police Department remains committed to protecting victims, holding offenders accountable, and ensuring the safety of our community,” the department said in a post on Instagram.

The alleged incident happened Oct. 27 at a gentlemen’s club in Miami Gardens, where the woman worked. Officials said they aren’t releasing her name or the name of the club for her safety.

Davis allegedly grabbed the woman by the back of her head, pulling her with one hand and holding her throat with another as he forcefully took her to a parking garage, police said.

He eventually released her, and she ran to coworkers, police said. She suffered bruises on her left arm.

Police said the woman had known Davis since 2022 and had been in an intimate relationship with him, but it ended a month before the incident.

Surveillance video corroborates the victim’s statement about the incident, police said.

A warrant was issued for his arrest earlier this month.

Davis has previously faced multiple domestic violence charges in South Florida, including this past July, when he was accused of hitting the mother of his children.

He was also arrested in Broward County in 2022 in another domestic violence case.

Davis was also previously charged in Coral Gables for a 2020 incident in which he allegedly beat his girlfriend, but those charges were dropped.

Tyson Fury comeback fight announced as he returns April 11 on Netflix

Tyson Fury‘s return to the ring has been officially confirmed.

Fury had spent the past year on the sidelines after announcing his retirement in January 2025 following back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk throughout 2024.

In Fury’s absence, Usyk has continued to reign as top dog in the heavyweight division, once again becoming undisputed champion, before vacating his WBO belt in November, which is now in the possession of Fabio Wardley.

Tyson Fury comeback fight announced as he returns April 11 on Netflix

JUST IN: After Weeks-Long Search Gervonta Davis finally Arrested In Miami

‘The Gypsy King’ will now look to get back into the mix by ending that retirement and returning to the sport. Today, it has been announced that he will take on Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11 in the UK, broadcast live on Netflix as main event on a Ring Magazine card.

Makhmudov was last in action in October when he defeated Dave Allen by unanimous decision in Sheffield, but he now faces a much tougher task in Fury, who has only ever lost to Usyk during his career.

Victory over the Russian could lead to a world title fight for Fury, who revealed earlier this week he would be happy to have a showdown with WBO champion Wardley later this year.

“Like I said, let’s see how I am looking in my return fight, then later in 2026 this would be a good option for me to try [and] become [three-time] heavyweight champion.

“[Fabio] has a hard fight himself coming up soon. I know the fight you guys all want but, at this time, I won’t say his name out of respect, as he is in mourning.

“But if he is not going to continue in boxing, I’d like Big Fab as a big test. This would be a massive spectacle!”

First things first, Fury must overcome Makhmudov.

Terence Crawford answers if he’d end retirement for Floyd Mayweather fight

Terence Crawford followed in Floyd Mayweather’s footsteps this month when he announced his retirement with an unblemished record.

The switch-hitter from Omaha, Nebraska secured his 42nd win and an undisputed title in a third weight class when he beat Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez earlier this year. Though many felt a rematch would take place, Crawford instead revealed that he was walking away from the sport on top.

Terence Crawford answers if he’d end retirement for Floyd Mayweather fight

JUST IN: “Once he returns.”: Gervonta Davis Emerges as Preferred Rematch

Speaking on a live stream with Adin Ross, during which ‘Bud’ discussed his career and decision to retire, he was asked about how he would go about fighting Floyd Mayweather – the one man past or present he has admitted he might struggle with.

“It’d be a good chess match. Floyd’s one of the greatest at playing chess, so it’d be a game of who’s gonna out-think who.”

Mayweather famously retired undefeated, too, his record of 50-0 summing up his elite defensive skillset. While he has remained relatively active on the exhibition circuit, he recently revealed that a professional return to the sport at 48-years-old is ‘on the table.’

With that in mind, Crawford was asked if he would return for that all-American spectacle, and gave the answer most fans will want to hear.

“Nah, man. Floyd is old. Floyd is done.”

Mayweather may look to pursue a rematch with Manny Pacquiao. The Filipino fighting legend, who made his own pro comeback last year to draw with Mario Barrios, has said it is an option and that talks are ongoing.

Gervonta Davis Emerges as Preferred Rematch Target for Isaac Cruz

Gervonta Davis is set to receive an offer to rematch Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, with the sequel now positioned as the preferred next move once Davis is in a position to move forward.

Sean Gibbons, who represents Cruz, confirmed to World Boxing News that a second fight with Davis sits at the top of the agenda.

“That’s the fight we want to do,” Gibbons told WBN. “Once he returns.”

Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz go head-to-head with Floyd Mayweather looking on

JUST IN: Video: How Floyd Mayweather-Esque Moment Became Shakur

The comments mark a clear shift in direction following earlier discussions that briefly placed Davis on a shortlist of potential opponents for Manny Pacquiao. Gibbons confirmed that the scenario is no longer being considered.

Cruz points back to Davis after Roach draw
Cruz’s renewed focus on Davis follows his recent draw with former Davis opponent Lamont Roach. While a rematch between Cruz and Roach remains possible, World Boxing News understands that Davis is now viewed as the priority option for Cruz this summer.

The first meeting between Davis and Cruz in December 2021 produced a competitive, hard-fought bout that ended with Davis winning a unanimous decision. A rematch has remained a talking point ever since, particularly as Cruz continued to establish himself as a durable and crowd-friendly contender.

From Cruz’s side, the appeal is straightforward: a return to the biggest stage against one of boxing’s most recognizable lightweights.

Davis return tied to unresolved matters
Any movement on a rematch timeline is dependent on Davis resolving ongoing legal matters. Davis has not competed since his last ring appearance, and WBN understands that clarity on his return will come only once those issues are addressed.

Until then, the offer remains contingent rather than immediate. However, the intent from Cruz’s camp is clear, and the rematch is viewed as the most meaningful option available once Davis is ready to resume his career.

Pacquiao options narrow as landscape shifts
The change in Cruz’s direction also affects the wider picture at the top end of the sport. Pacquiao’s name has continued to circulate in comeback discussions, but Davis is no longer part of that equation.

Instead, new complications have emerged. Promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that talks are underway involving Conor Benn, with the potential for Benn to step into the long-discussed title opportunity against Rolando Romero.

If that matchup is secured, either in the UK or Las Vegas, Pacquiao’s remaining options become increasingly limited, leaving familiar territory — including Floyd Mayweather — as one of the few realistic fallbacks.

For now, the clearest path forward belongs to Cruz. And once Davis can compete again, the rematch he has been waiting for appears to be waiting for him as well.

Shakur Stevenson Confesses How Floyd Mayweather-Esque Moment Became His Lifetime Trauma

While the betting lines should soothe Shakur Stevenson, the very thought of losing a bout leaves him jittery. Despite moving up a division, the Olympic silver medalist – a three-division champion – remains the heavy favorite to topple WBO and The Ring light welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez.

As he steps into the most critical fight of his professional career, he can’t shake memories of his 2016 Olympic loss. A split decision cost Shakur Stevenson a gold – no American man had won one since Andre Ward in Athens. Images of him crying after Cuba’s Robeisy Ramírez defeated him also bring to mind a similar moment in 1996, when a controversial loss left a young Floyd Mayweather with only a bronze medal.

feature-image

READ: Why Floyd Mayweather Wasn’t Disqualified Despite Multiple Violations

The fear that fuels Shakur Stevenson

Stevenson revealed how the prospect of losing remains unsettling. “I think my trauma is like losing,” he said in an interview. “I don’t want to ever lose; that’s like a trauma for me.” The interviewer wondered how he would react in that situation – if he were to lose a fight, would he cry or do something reckless?

That immediately took Stevenson back to his Olympic days. “When I lost in the Olympics, that’s what got me crying,” he added. The clip, when Chris Mannix asked about his emotions after he lost the final to Ramírez, went viral. Even then, Stevenson reiterated how much he dislikes losing a fight.

While smiling at his emotional low point, Stevenson recalled how losing a fight that was well within his grasp affected him deeply. “Honestly, I think losing is my biggest pet peeve. I work so hard to make sure that sh*t don’t happen,” he added.

While he has yet to suffer a setback, he’s adopted a new perspective, giving props to whoever can finally beat him. “If you go against me and you beat me…you are a bad motherf**ker,” Stevenson said.

After Teofimo, Stevenson is already planning the next big fight

However, the risk of a first loss is real. Lopez is an equally sharp and technically gifted boxer, and one of the sport’s most unpredictable performers.

Eddie Hearn, who is promoting the fight with Top Rank’s Bob Arum, believes it is a 50-50 affair. “I think it’s a fight that could be a little bit of a chess match early on. You have two guys who are very reactive, super sharp, feint and set traps, and with tremendous boxing IQ and footwork,” he said.

But Stevenson remains confident. To that end, he is already talking about a move after the Teofimo fight. In a DAZN interview, he said that he does not want to relinquish his current WBC lightweight title. After he defeats Teofimo, he would rather move back down and pursue a title unification. Only another big fight would convince him to stay at 140 pounds.

A unification fight at 135 pounds would mean a potential matchup against entrenched IBF champion Raymond Muratalla, who defeated top contender Andy Cruz in a Fight of the Year contender during the weekend, a prospect that Stevenson is clearly targeting.

Tyson Fury retired 12 months ago but recently announced he will return to the ring as he seeks a third reign as heavyweight world champion

Carl Froch has told Tyson Fury there is no point coming out of retirement.

Fury retired 12 months ago but recently announced he will return to the ring as he seeks a third reign as heavyweight world champion. He is expected to fight again in April in a warm-up bout before setting his sights on a world title shot. His first-choice opponent had been Anthony Joshua but the Brit is recovering from injuries he suffered in a fatal car crash last month,

Fury could instead face champion Fabio Wardley who was upgraded to full champion in December when Oleksandr Usyk gave up his belt rather than face the Ipswich heavyweight. But as Fury prepares for his comeback in Thailand, former super-middleweight world champion Froch dismissed his return.

Tyson Fury is hoping to make his boxing comeback within the next few months

JUST IN: Deontay Wilder Vs. Derek Chisora Complications Why The Fight M

“Coming back into boxing at 37 years old, when he has been out for over a year, is anybody bothered?” he said on his YouTube channel. “Does anybody care? I don’t want to slander him because it’s Tyson Fury and he is great; he has been a great servant to boxing.

“He is a brilliant character, and I don’t want to give him any stick but I’m not f***ing a***d if he comes back to boxing or not. I’m not bothered; I don’t care anymore. He has retired five times. When he retired last, I knew that he was going to come back out of retirement. I think that the only reason that he should be coming back and the only fight worth looking at would be the ‘AJ’ fight.

“There is an argument that Fury lost to [Francis] Ngannou, there’s one loss, but he got the decision, then he lost twice to Oleksandr Usyk. There are three fights there where he has been beat, really, and now he is coming back after over a year out, it doesn’t make any sense, it’s pointless.

“If you’re going to come back and fight and try to be a top boy, and you want to get back into the mix at world level, jump in there with someone like Moses Itauma or [Agit] Kabayel.”

Deontay Wilder Vs. Derek Chisora Complications Why The Fight May Never Happen

Heavyweight veterans Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora are reportedly finalizing a clash for April 4, but Frank Warren has something to say about that.

The news broke after Chisora posted a social media clip showing a video call with Wilder, during which “War” Chisora held up what appeared to be a signed bout agreement. Wilder is looking to reclaim his status as the division’s most feared puncher after a rocky stretch. Wilder returned to winning ways in June 2025 with a seventh-round TKO of Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, putting behind the losses he suffered to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang.

JUST IN: How Terence Crawford’s Canelo Win Faces A Second Test

“Signed. I hope you’re ready. This is the last phone call from me too, bro. I’m just phoning to tell you, bro, good luck,” Chisora

“Let’s freaking go! If I’m not ready then I’m gonna get ready. I’m just going to let you know, I love you, bro, this is the last phone call. Next time I see you it will be at the press conference and then after that we’ll be in the ring, baby. I love you so much, brother. Let’s make it happen,” Wilder

Will It Happen?

Meanwhile, Chisora has defied age by winning three consecutive fights, as the 42-year-old most recently beat Otto Wallin in February 2025. Despite the excitement, the fight faces significant issues. Reports suggest the card is being organized by Kalle Sauerland and Wasserman Boxing under the Misfits Pro banner. Frank Warren issued a firm rebuttal, stating that Chisora remains under a binding contract with Queensberry Promotions.

“I’m not [with Queensberry] anymore. The contract I had with Queensberry expired two months after my fight with Otto Wallin. The reason why we didn’t fight in December is I didn’t get a good contract, so I didn’t fight in December. So right now I’m just waiting on getting a good contract, a good number, and I’ll fight,” Chisora stated

“[Chisora] has a contract with us. What we deal with is facts, and the fact is that he has a contract with us,” Warren said