As the boxing world gears up for a thrilling 2025, promoter Frank Warren has shared his top three anticipated matchups that he believes would captivate fans and elevate the sport. Engaging with DAZN News, Warren expressed a keen interest in the following bouts: Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois II, Naoya Inoue vs. Nick Ball, and Anthony Yarde vs. Joshua Buatsi. Each of these potential clashes features fighters known for their tenacity and skill, hinting at potential high-energy bouts that could light up the boxing scene.
Undoubtedly, the heavyweight rematch between reigning IBF champion Daniel Dubois and Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the other major heavyweight titles, stands out as a highly anticipated contest. However, Dubois’s immediate focus must be on his upcoming challenge against Joseph Parker. Critics have raised concerns about Dubois contemplating a future fight before facing Parker, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation. Yet, if Dubois secures a decisive victory—especially an impressive one over Parker—it could pave the way for a monumental rematch with Usyk. The Ukrainian boxer has already made it known that he is willing to step back into the ring with Dubois, which adds an intriguing layer to this narrative and heightens fan expectations.
On the lighter weight side of things, Naoya Inoue, the “Monster” of the ring, has also been attracting attention. Currently positioned as the unified champion in the 122-pound division, Inoue is set for bouts in Las Vegas and Saudi Arabia. A fight with Nick Ball, the holder of the WBA featherweight title, is a tantalizing prospect. However, it’s unclear whether Inoue will commit to a step up in weight class to face Ball. Should this match materialize, it promises to deliver an intense showdown, although many fans might perceive Inoue as the clear favorite, adding another layer of psychological tension to the matchup.
The Battle of the Rising Stars: Yarde vs. Buatsi
Equally compelling is the possible face-off between Anthony Yarde and Joshua Buatsi, two powerful contenders in the light heavyweight division. Both fighters have significant challenges ahead, with Yarde set to square off against Lyndon Arthur for a third time and Buatsi preparing for a matchup with Callum Smith. The outcome of these fights will ultimately dictate the timeline and possibility of a showdown between Yarde and Buatsi. Should they both emerge victorious, a collision of their explosive fighting styles would likely lead to a fiercely contested encounter, captivating audiences hungry for top-tier boxing action.
Warren’s proposed matchups offer an exciting glimpse into the future of boxing, but the ultimate question remains: how many of these anticipated bouts will actually take place? With the complexities of professional boxing, including negotiations, injuries, and career decisions, only time will tell if fans get to witness these explosive confrontations. Nonetheless, the sheer potential and anticipation surrounding these matchups reflect the dynamic nature of boxing, where the promise of high-stakes battles continues to fuel excitement and enthusiasm among fans worldwide.