The world of professional boxing is always full of surprises, but 2025 could bring some of the biggest shakeups in recent memory. From legendary champions retiring to shocking upsets and long-awaited showdowns finally coming to fruition, the sport is poised for a year of major changes and unforgettable moments. As we look ahead, here are some of the boldest predictions for what the boxing landscape might look like by the end of 2025.
Usyk Hangs Up His Gloves
Oleksandr Usyk has firmly cemented his place as one of the greatest boxers of his generation. The Ukrainian sensation has virtually cleaned out the heavyweight division, scoring dominant victories over Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. With his legacy secure and nothing left to prove, the 38-year-old could decide that 2025 is the perfect time to retire on top.
While matchups with the likes of Daniel Dubois, Joseph Parker, or the Zhang-Kabayel winner are intriguing, Usyk may no longer have the motivation for grueling camps against opponents he’s heavily favored over. With his attention increasingly drawn to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, walking away as the undefeated king of the heavyweights seems like a fitting end to Usyk’s extraordinary career.
Klitschko’s Comeback for the Ages
At 48 years old and 8 years removed from his last fight, Wladimir Klitschko mounting a comeback would be an unprecedented feat, even for a boxer of his caliber. But rumblings of a potential return have been growing louder, with the former heavyweight king looking as fit as ever and hinting at his desire to break George Foreman’s record as the oldest heavyweight champion.
While facing Usyk is understandably off the table, a matchup with the Dubois-Parker winner could give Klitschko a realistic path to achieving the impossible. His tactical style and impeccable conditioning could age gracefully, making this audacious comeback a genuine possibility. If he pulls it off, it would instantly rank among the greatest achievements in boxing history.
Bivol’s Revenge in the Rematch
Dmitry Bivol’s first encounter with Artur Beterbiev was a razor-close affair that ended with Bivol suffering his first professional defeat. But in the highly anticipated rematch, expect the 34-year-old to make the necessary adjustments to avenge that loss and establish himself as the undisputed king of the light heavyweight division.
Bivol’s masterful defense and slick combinations troubled Beterbiev in their initial meeting, and with improved endurance, he can maintain that intensity until the final bell. While Beterbiev’s power always makes him dangerous, Bivol’s superior boxing IQ should allow him to neutralize that threat and claim a clear decision victory. A win would set the stage for a thrilling trilogy bout to settle the score once and for all.
Fury vs Joshua: Better Late Than Never
The Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua matchup may be a few years past its ideal timeline, but it remains the biggest fight that can be made in British boxing. Despite Fury’s latest “retirement,” the allure of this megafight could prove too tempting to resist, especially with Joshua publicly calling for it to happen in 2025.
For Fury, it’s a chance to remind everyone of his greatness and bow out on a high note after back-to-back losses to Usyk. Joshua, meanwhile, is desperate for a signature win to reignite his career. The contrasting styles and personalities would make for a fascinating build-up and a historic event that could shatter box office records. Even if it’s not for world titles, Fury-Joshua would be an epic clash for the ages.
Parker’s Resurgence Continues
Joseph Parker’s recent upset victories over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang have breathed new life into the 31-year-old’s career. That momentum could carry him to even greater heights in 2025, starting with a shocker over the heavily-favored Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title.
Parker’s blend of boxing skill, power, and toughness makes him a handful for any opponent, and his experience at the elite level could be the difference against the younger, less battle-tested Dubois. A win would complete a remarkable career turnaround and position the New Zealander for a massive showdown with Usyk later in the year.
Taylor’s Dublin Swansong
Katie Taylor has already secured her place as an all-time great and the most decorated Irish boxer in history. But the one achievement that has eluded her is a big-time fight in front of her adoring Dublin fans. 2025 could be the year that dream finally becomes a reality, and there’s no better venue for it than the iconic Croke Park.
Whether it’s the trilogy with Amanda Serrano, a revenge match against Chantelle Cameron, or another marquee opponent, Taylor has no shortage of options for a fitting farewell fight. At 38 years old and with nothing left to prove, walking away after a triumphant night in Dublin would be the perfect ending to Taylor’s trailblazing career.
Of course, these predictions are just that — predictions. Boxing has a way of constantly surprising us and tearing up even the most well-reasoned prognostications. But if even a few of these bold forecasts come to pass, 2025 could go down as one of the most historic and memorable years the sport has ever seen. For now, all we can do is sit back and enjoy the ride as the next generation of champions emerges and the old guard looks for a few more moments of glory.
In boxing, you never know what’s going to happen. That’s the beauty of this sport.
– Sugar Ray Leonard
