Bob Arum, a well-respected figure in the boxing world, has not given up on Jared Anderson despite the young heavyweight’s recent legal issues. Anderson, also known as “The Real Big Baby,” found himself in trouble with the law after racing his car at excessive speeds and being charged with a third-degree felony. Despite this setback, Arum remains convinced that the 24-year-old has the potential to become “the next great heavyweight.”
In an interview with Box Nation, Arum confidently stated that he believes 2026 will be the year when Anderson makes his mark in the boxing world. Acknowledging Anderson’s mistake, Arum noted that it was a common behavior among young individuals. With Anderson set to return to the ring on April 13 against Ryad Merhy, Arum expressed his optimism for the young fighter’s future. He emphasized Anderson’s charm and likable personality, pointing out that the upcoming fight will be a significant test for him against a skilled opponent.
Currently boasting an impressive record of 16-0(15), Anderson has shown flashes of brilliance in his fights. However, critics have highlighted his defensive vulnerabilities as a potential weakness that opponents could exploit. Merhy, with a record of 32-2(26) and experience as the WBA cruiserweight champion, poses a formidable challenge for Anderson. It remains to be seen if Anderson can rise to the occasion and overcome this tough test.
Arum’s endorsement of Anderson stems from his keen eye for talent in the boxing world. He firmly believes that Anderson is one of the best young heavyweight prospects currently in the sport. While acknowledging other rising stars like Moses Itauma, Arum is convinced that Anderson’s combination of skill and power sets him apart. The upcoming fight against Merhy will be a crucial moment to assess Anderson’s true potential and whether he can fulfill Arum’s lofty expectations.
As Anderson continues his boxing journey, the question remains whether he can fulfill the promise that Arum sees in him. With top heavyweights like Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, and Anthony Joshua dominating the division, Anderson has the opportunity to carve out his own path to greatness. The upcoming fight on April 13 will serve as a litmus test for Anderson’s potential and whether he can eventually reach the pinnacle of the boxing world. Only time will tell if Anderson can fulfill the high expectations set for him and become the next great heavyweight champion.