Lopez, Stevenson, Itauma: Boxing’s New Wave as Wilder vs Chisora Threatens to Steal the Spotlight
January 2026The boxing world is gearing up for an electric start to 2026 with a slate of fights that promise fireworks, new stars rising, and world titles on the line.
In Manchester, heavyweights will once again take centre stage as Moses Itauma prepares to lock horns with Jermaine Franklin in a bout that has been rescheduled for March 28 after an injury forced a postponement earlier in the year. Itauma — riding high off a brutal first-round knockout of a notable veteran — now has even more time to sharpen up for what could be the defining fight of his breakout year as he seeks to affirm his place among boxing’s elite. Franklin brings toughness and experience, a true proving ground for the young Briton.
Meanwhile, over in the bright lights of Las Vegas, the IBF lightweight world title will be contested when Raymond Muratalla defends against Cuban star Andy Cruz. Muratalla’s rise through the lightweight ranks has been virtually flawless, and Cruz — an Olympic gold medalist turning professional — arrives with speed and swagger, turning this into a fascinating clash of seasoned pro versus elite amateur talent.
New York City is set to roar on January 31 as two of the sport’s most skilled pugilists collide for the WBO light-welterweight world title. Teofimo Lopez, a hard-hitting champion with serious knockout power, defends his crown against the slick, technically dazzling Shakur Stevenson, who’s chasing multi-division glory. This is the sort of stylistic meeting that gets purists buzzing and casual fans tuning in.
Back on home soil, Newcastle will host a high-stakes shootout for the IBF light-middleweight world title as Bakhram Murtazaliev defends his gold against Britain’s own Josh Kelly. Murtazaliev’s unbeaten resume meets Kelly’s never-quit attitude in a fight that’s bound to keep fans on the edge of their seats and elevate the winner in one of boxing’s talent-rich divisions.
From rising stars to seasoned champions, these bouts don’t just fill cards — they define careers. Whether you’re trackside or tuned in from afar, early 2026 presents a must-watch chapter in modern boxing.
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