Boxing fans around the world had plenty to cheer about this past weekend, as a series of high-stakes fights unfolded across different weight classes and continents. From explosive knockouts to controversial decisions and title unifications, the action inside the ring was nothing short of spectacular. In this article, we bring you a detailed breakdown of the top boxing events that took place over the weekend, highlighting the key matchups, standout performances, and what’s next for the fighters involved.
1. Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov – WBA Super Welterweight Title Fight
One of the most anticipated bouts of the weekend was the clash between undisputed welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford and Israil Madrimov for the WBA super welterweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This fight marked Crawford’s move up to 154 pounds, a bold step for a fighter who has already made his mark at welterweight.
Fight Summary
The fight was a tactical battle from the start, with Madrimov using his height and reach advantage to keep Crawford at bay. However, Crawford’s signature southpaw movement and counterpunching ability began to take its toll by the middle rounds. The turning point came in the 9th round when Crawford landed a sharp left hook that wobbled Madrimov. Sensing an opportunity, Crawford poured on the pressure, forcing the referee to stop the fight at 2:38 of the 10th round.
Result
- Winner: Terence Crawford (TKO, Round 10)
- New Title Held: WBA Super Welterweight Championship
Post-Fight Reactions
Crawford dedicated the win to his late father and hinted at future fights against the likes of Errol Spence Jr. or Canelo Alvarez. Meanwhile, Madrimov showed sportsmanship in defeat, calling for a rematch.
2. Amanda Serrano vs. Katie Taylor – Rematch Ends in Controversy
The highly anticipated rematch between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor took center stage in Brooklyn, New York, drawing a massive crowd and global attention. The first fight had ended in a razor-close decision in favor of Taylor, and fans were eager to see if Serrano could reverse the outcome.
Fight Summary
This lightweight unification bout lived up to the hype, with both fighters trading heavy blows throughout the 10-round affair. Taylor used her superior footwork and jabs to control distance, while Serrano pressed forward relentlessly, landing powerful hooks and uppercuts. The final three rounds were particularly brutal, with both women showing incredible heart.
Result
- Winner: Katie Taylor (Split Decision – 96-94, 95-95, 97-93)
- Titles Retained: WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring Lightweight Titles
Controversy & Aftermath
The split decision sparked outrage among many fans and analysts, who believed Serrano did enough to win. Social media erupted with calls for an immediate third fight. Both fighters expressed interest in a trilogy bout, which could become one of the biggest attractions in women’s boxing history.
3. David Benavidez vs. Demetrius Andrade – WBC Super Middleweight Title Clash
In a surprise matchup announced just weeks before fight night, David Benavidez defended his WBC super middleweight title against former unified middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade. The fight was moved up after several other contenders pulled out due to injuries.
Fight Summary
Benavidez came into the fight as the aggressor, using his power and physicality to dominate early. However, Andrade adjusted well, using lateral movement and body shots to disrupt Benavidez’s rhythm. By the sixth round, Andrade appeared to be gaining momentum, but a devastating right hand from Benavidez sent him to the canvas.
Result
- Winner: David Benavidez (KO, Round 6)
- Title Retained: WBC Super Middleweight Championship
What’s Next?
Benavidez remains one of the most dangerous punchers in the division and is expected to face the winner of the upcoming Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo matchup. Andrade, meanwhile, may consider retirement or a move back down to middleweight.
4. Devin Haney vs. Joseph Diaz – Lightweight Defense
Undefeated lightweight champion Devin Haney returned to the ring for a voluntary defense against veteran contender Joseph Diaz. While not a title fight, it was seen as a tune-up for bigger challenges ahead.
Fight Summary
Haney showcased his elite defensive skills and ring IQ, frustrating Diaz with constant movement and precise jabbing. Diaz tried to close the distance and land combinations, but Haney’s slickness kept him at arm’s length for most of the fight.
Result
- Winner: Devin Haney (Unanimous Decision – 100-90, 100-90, 99-91)
Next Steps
Haney reiterated his desire to fight Vasiliy Lomachenko or Gervonta Davis, two of the top names in the lightweight and junior welterweight divisions.
5. Michael Conlan vs. Luis Rosa – Featherweight Showdown
In a featured undercard bout on the Crawford-Madrimov card, former Olympian Michael Conlan faced off against undefeated Luis Rosa in a featherweight showdown. The fight was seen as a potential eliminator for a future title shot.
Fight Summary
Conlan started strong, using his technical skills to outbox Rosa in the early rounds. However, Rosa began to find his range in the middle rounds, landing clean power shots that rocked Conlan. The tide turned dramatically in the 7th round when Rosa connected with a massive uppercut that dropped Conlan.
Result
- Winner: Luis Rosa (TKO, Round 7)
- Biggest Win of His Career
Impact
Rosa’s victory catapults him into title contention, while Conlan faces questions about his future at the elite level.
6. Liam Williams vs. Kieron Conway – British Rivalry Renewed
In the UK, a domestic grudge match between Liam Williams and Kieron Conway drew significant attention. The two had previously fought in 2021, with Conway winning a majority decision. This time, Williams was determined to settle the score.
Fight Summary
The fight was a gritty, back-and-forth war, with both men exchanging heavy leather throughout. Williams targeted the body early, while Conway relied on his chin and volume punching. By the 8th round, Williams began to fade, giving Conway the chance to seize control.
Result
- Winner: Kieron Conway (Split Decision – 77-75, 76-76, 77-75)
- Second Victory Over Williams
Reaction
Williams called for an immediate rematch, claiming he wasn’t at his best. Conway, now riding a four-fight win streak, is eyeing a British title shot next.
7. Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Egidijus Kavaliauskas – Powerhouse Matchup
Vergil Ortiz Jr., known for his knockout power, faced former title challenger Egidijus Kavaliauskas in a scheduled 10-round welterweight contest. Fans were expecting fireworks, and they got exactly that.
Fight Summary
From the opening bell, Ortiz applied relentless pressure, stalking Kavaliauskas with bad intentions. Although Kavaliauskas managed to survive the first few rounds, Ortiz found his mark in the 5th round with a crushing right hand that put his opponent down for the count.
Result
- Winner: Vergil Ortiz Jr. (KO, Round 5)
- 18th Knockout in 21 Fights
Future Outlook
Ortiz continues to climb the ranks and is now in line for a world title opportunity. Potential opponents include Errol Spence Jr. or Terence Crawford, should Crawford decide to return to welterweight.
8. Xander Zayas vs. Elias Espadas – Rising Star Shines
On the undercard of the Crawford-Madrimov event, rising Puerto Rican prospect Xander Zayas delivered a statement performance against Elias Espadas. Zayas, only 21 years old, is being groomed as the next big thing in boxing.
Fight Summary
Zayas displayed maturity beyond his years, picking apart Espadas with precision and timing. He controlled the distance effectively and landed sharp combinations to both head and body.
Result
- Winner: Xander Zayas (Unanimous Decision – 80-72, 80-72, 79-73)
- Continues Undefeated Streak (18-0)
Significance
Zayas’ win further solidifies his status as a top young talent in the sport and sets the stage for bigger fights in 2025.
9. Claressa Shields vs. Hannah Rankin – Women’s Middleweight Action
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields continued her professional career with a middleweight bout against Scotland’s Hannah Rankin. Shields, who has been vocal about wanting to unify the division, used this fight as preparation for bigger challenges.
Fight Summary
Shields dominated from start to finish, utilizing her elite amateur pedigree to outbox and outmaneuver Rankin. She mixed body shots with head movement and crisp counters.
Result
- Winner: Claressa Shields (Unanimous Decision – 100-90, 100-90, 99-91)
- Now 14-0 with 3 KOs
Looking Ahead
Shields is pushing for fights against the top-ranked middleweights, including Savannah Marshall and Maricela Cornejo.
10. Heavyweight Prospects Shine in Undercard Bouts
Several heavyweight prospects caught the eye on the weekend’s undercards. Notably:
- Efe Ajagba remained undefeated with a 3rd-round TKO over Vladimir Tereshkin.
- Rashidi Ellis , usually a welterweight, made a successful heavyweight debut with a 1st-round stoppage.
- Filip Hrgovic edged out Zhilei Zhang in a tight fight that many felt could have gone either way.
These performances signal a new wave of talent entering the historically star-studded heavyweight division.
Final Thoughts – What a Weekend for Boxing!
This past weekend proved once again why boxing remains one of the most thrilling combat sports in the world. From blockbuster main events to gritty undercard battles, fans were treated to a full spectrum of emotions—victory, controversy, heartbreak, and hope.
With major stars like Terence Crawford and Katie Taylor continuing to deliver, and emerging talents like Xander Zayas and Luis Rosa making their mark, the future of boxing looks brighter than ever. As the calendar turns to the next set of matchups, one thing is certain: the excitement inside the ring will only continue to grow.
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