Heavyweight Boxing
The year 2024 in the heavyweight division delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, seismic upsets, and unforgettable moments. From historic achievements to shocking knockouts, the sport’s marquee division reaffirmed its place as the most boxing's most captivating division. Here’s a look at the defining moments of the heavyweight division in 2024.
In May, Oleksandr Usyk etched his name into the annals of boxing history by defeating Tyson Fury via unanimous decision. The Ukrainian maestro became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in nearly a quarter of a century, cementing his status as one of the greatest fighters of this era. Dropping Fury along the way, Usyk’s tactical brilliance and unyielding spirit carried him to victory in one of the most anticipated fights in recent memory.
Daniel Dubois emerged as the breakout star of the year with two career-defining victories. In a thrilling encounter, Dubois stopped IBF mandatory challenger Filip Hrgovic, shaking up the division and securing the IBF heavyweight title. Just months later, Dubois stunned the boxing world by stopping former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, proving his mettle as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight ranks.
Zhilei Zhang experienced a rollercoaster year in 2024. After suffering a decision loss to Joseph Parker, Zhang rebounded in devastating fashion by brutally stopping former WBC champion Deontay Wilder, reminding everyone of his power and resilience.
In one of the most significant wins of his career, Joseph Parker boxed beautifully to defeat Zhilei Zhang via decision. Parker’s strategic discipline and resilience saw him navigate Zhang’s raw power and emerge victorious. This win catapulted Parker back into the upper echelon of heavyweight contenders.
German contender Agit Kabayel made waves in the heavyweight division by stopping the highly regarded Frank Sanchez. Kabayel’s aggressive performance and tactical precision proved too much for Sanchez, positioning him as a dangerous contender in a talent-packed division.
Derek “War” Chisora, one of the division’s most durable and entertaining veterans, delivered a vintage performance against Joe Joyce. Chisora dropped Joyce en route to a unanimous decision victory, proving he still has the grit and determination to remain a relevant player.
Martin Bakole stopped American rising star Jared Anderson in Los Angeles. Anderson, who had been touted as the next big thing in American heavyweight boxing, found himself overwhelmed by Bakole’s power and relentless pressure. This win solidified Bakole’s standing as a dangerous threat to any top heavyweight.
Two heavyweight veterans, Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller and former champion Andy Ruiz, clashed in an intense, back-and-forth brawl that ended in a draw. Though both fighters had their moments, Miller seemed to gain more credit from fans and pundits for his relentless pressure and volume punching.
In their highly anticipated rematch, Fabio Wardley wasted no time in settling the score with Frazer Clarke. Wardley delivered a devastating first-round knockout, reasserting his position as one of the UK’s most explosive heavyweights.
Teenage phenom Moses Itauma continued his meteoric rise by dispatching Demsey McKean in just one round. Itauma’s composed yet explosive performance left little doubt about his potential to become a future world champion. At just 19, he remains one of the most exciting young prospects in the division.
To close out the year, Oleksandr Usyk defended his titles against Tyson Fury in their highly anticipated rematch. While the fight lacked the drama of their first encounter, Usyk put on a disciplined and workmanlike performance to win via unanimous decision. This victory solidified Usyk's place atop the heavyweight mountain and shut down any lingering doubts about his supremacy in the division.
Top Heavyweight Boxing covers the past, present and future of boxing's premier division. Copyright© 2025
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