Today, we’re diving into a crazy fight card set for Saudi Arabia, and trust me, this one is living up to every expectation! It’s stacked, every fight could headline its own event, and there are 7 or 8 fights on this card that I’m beyond excited for. Huge props to the organizers, especially Turkey Al, who’s put this together. You’ve got to give credit where it’s due.
Let’s kick things off with the main event: Beterbiev vs Bivol 2. The first fight was incredible, even if some didn’t feel it “caught fire.” For the boxing purists, it was edge-of-your-seat stuff. It was close, so close in fact that after watching it back, I think Beterbiev deserved the win. On the night, I had Bivol winning, but it was a razor-thin margin.
In this rematch, I don’t know who’s going to win. Bivol needs to show more urgency in the later rounds—rounds 10, 11, and 12. The judges tend to favor fighters who press the action, and Bivol slowed down while Beterbiev seemed to push harder. It could go either way, but if Bivol can up his output, he could make it a closer fight. Beterbiev’s power is undeniable, though, and we saw how he dealt with opponents in his previous matches, often knocking them out cold. The rematch promises to be a thriller, and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds.
Next up, Daniel Dubois vs Joseph Parker. This is a fight that could easily headline a card itself, with Dubois defending his IBF title. Joseph Parker, on a five-fight win streak, has a chance to become champion again. He’s had some notable wins over guys like Jile Jang and Deontay Wilder, though some say those fighters were past their prime. Still, Parker’s resilience and ability to get the job done are impressive.
On the other hand, Dubois has been on fire lately, especially after his big win over Anthony Joshua. If Parker pulls off the upset, it would be huge. But for Dubois, this is his time to show he belongs at the top of the division.
My advice to Dubois’ camp: stick to the jab for the first few rounds, then slowly work in the heavy right hand. He can wear Parker down with his power, but Parker’s best chance is using his movement and boxing skills to avoid the knockout shots. Dubois is the favorite, but you can never count out Parker.
Then, we’ve got Shakur Stevenson vs Floyd Scoffield. Stevenson is one of the hottest names in boxing right now, with blistering hand speed and excellent ring generalship. Scoffield, unbeaten at 22 years old, gets a crack at the WBC lightweight title. But let’s be real, Stevenson is the big favorite here. Still, this is another fantastic fight for a title on what is already a stacked card.
Let’s move on to Hamza Shiraz challenging for the WBC middleweight title against Carlos Adames. Shiraz is one of Britain’s brightest prospects, and this could be his moment to shine on the world stage. Adames, though, is no slouch, having previously fought some of the best. Shiraz has the tools to become a champion, and this fight will prove if he’s ready.
Virgil Ortiz vs Israel Madrimov is another exciting matchup. Both of these fighters are aiming for world titles, and the winner here will likely go on to bigger things. Ortiz is known for his aggressive style, while Madrimov, coming off a loss to Terence Crawford, will be looking to bounce back. It’s a clash of styles, and it’s bound to be entertaining.
Then we have Joshua Buatsi vs Callum Smith. Buatsi has been on the scene for a while now, but this is the fight that will test his ability to go to the next level. Smith, who’s fought the best of the best including Canelo Alvarez, is a seasoned pro. Buatsi needs this win to establish himself as a true contender at light heavyweight, but Smith is a tough test.
And the show opener: Jile Jang vs Cabell for the WBC interim title. At 41, Jang isn’t as young as he once was, but he still has enough power to make things interesting. Cabell, younger and fresher, has a chance to make his mark on the heavyweight division. This could be an incredible opener, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Now, before I wrap things up, I’ve got to address some comments made by Gareth A. Davies and Ariel Helwani. Both have been talking nonsense about the Cobra (that’s me) lately. Ariel Helwani, the MMA journalist who thinks he knows boxing, has been hyping up Jake Paul like he’s the next big thing in boxing. Let’s get real—Jake Paul is a joke. He’ll never be a world champion, and Helwani’s cheerleading for him is just embarrassing.
And then there’s Gareth A. Davies, who’s often talking out of his hat. The guy means well but doesn’t have a clue when it comes to real boxing analysis. These two clowns don’t know what they’re talking about, and I’ve already invited them on my show to face the facts—but surprise, surprise, they’ve declined.
Jake Paul will never be a world champion, and anyone who truly knows boxing can see through the hype. I’m here to set the record straight.
So, that’s it for today. Let me know if you want me to do a Frut-along for the fight or maybe even head out to Saudi Arabia to witness this insane card firsthand. This card is going to be one for the history books, and I’m beyond excited to watch it all unfold.