TOMORROW evening at Wembley Stadium in London, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua must win to keep alive his dreams of a domestic blockbuster with Tyson Fury or a third fight with Oleksandr Usyk.
In the opposite corner, current IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois is tasked with derailing the AJ train and bringing the Watford fighter one step closer to retirement.
Before they fight, 10 other contenders get a chance to shine for boxing’s newest power broker, Turki Alalshikh. There’s an eclectic mix of newborn fighters looking to make a name for themselves and senior hands trying to hold on to something they may have lost. Let’s see who Frank, Eddie (and Ben) have on this show.
Tyler Denny vs. Hamzah Sheeraz
An intriguing clash for Denny’s middleweight title. Once thrown into the national scrapheap, Denny is a boxing everyman determined to continue his budding fairy tale. But the powerful fists of Sheeraz await him.
Denny is finally getting the payday the former plumber deserves. If he beats Sheeraz, he’ll earn every penny. It’s a lofty order, because Sheeraz has looked exceptional at times throughout his career, learning and developing toward world-class status. To reach that level is admirable for the beloved left-handed champion, but this is probably a step too far.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 19: Hamzah Sheeraz and Tyler Denny react onstage ahead of their European middleweight title fight during the Riyadh Season – Wembley Edition press conference at Guildhall on September 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Anthony Cacace vs. Josh Warrington
While Cacace’s IBF title is out of the question (due to boxing politics), the IBO title remains, so this is a 12-round fight. Leeds favourite Warrington is reaching veteran status, but if his fuel tank and fitness levels stay up, he has every chance of causing an upset.
Cacace from Belfast is very talented and hits incredibly tough (just ask Joe Cordina). If his stamina holds up to the end, Anto will lose the fight. Two passionate fan bases will be ready to lead their man to victory. Warrington’s long, tough career could catch up with him.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 19: Anthony Cacace and Josh Warrington react onstage before their Super Featherweight fight during the Riyadh Season – Wembley Edition press conference at Guildhall on September 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Joshua Buatsi vs. Willy Hutchinson
Another stylistic mashup that divided opinion. Willy Hutchinson is certainly a character and his win over Craig Richards answered many questions. Buatsi also defeated Richards and is a talent whose career came close to taking off but never quite took off.
Willy has excelled at breaking up lesser-known opponents, but when Lennox Clarke attacked him, he underestimated the heat, although he claims there were extenuating circumstances behind the loss. If Buatsi’s punches are true and his motivation matches his skills, he’s the best bet to press tough and seal the deal, whether it’s from range or on points.
Josh Kelly vs. Ishmael Davis
When original competitor Liam Smith withdrew, things looked uncertain for former Olympian Josh Kelly. Enter Ishmael Davis, a hard-working man with a troubled past who redeemed himself through noble art. Davis is fit, mighty, clumsy, and has already prepared for the fight. He may also have a few strategic tricks up his sleeve.
Kelly is talented, but how badly does he need a fight? He dominated Troy Williamson (Davis also won against Troy), but the Darlington man operates in straight lines. Davis, who strikes from both sides, is not as predictable. Kelly’s ability is there for all to see, but Davis’s desire could be the equalizer. This match could be a surprise.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 19: Hamzah Sheeraz and Tyler Denny react onstage ahead of their European middleweight title fight during the Riyadh Season – Wembley Edition press conference at Guildhall on September 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Mark Chamberlain vs. Josh Padley
Two undefeated fighters face off as Turki Alalshikh’s favorite fighter, Mark Chamberlain, takes on Josh Padley. Chamberlain is adept at finding his opponents’ weaknesses and using them to his advantage. The undefeated Padley technically moved up in weight to get this gigantic opportunity.
There’s a lot riding on this, as Chamberlain has promotional rival Sam Noakes on his radar. The way Chamberlain dismantled Gavin Gwynne was impressive. Padley will need to weather the early storm and persevere if he’s to have any chance of winning.
Mark Chamberlain’s career has reached a novel level in 2024. (Photo: Richard Pelham/Getty Images)