Heavyweight Boxing's Stars in 2025

Paris, France - The heavyweight division has long been the crown jewel of boxing, showcasing fighters with a blend of raw power, speed, and skill. With each new generation, fans eagerly anticipate the rise of the next dominant force in the sport.

In 2025, the heavyweight boxing scene remains as thrilling as ever, with top fighters making headlines and shaping the division’s future. For those looking to engage with the sport beyond just watching, casino en ligne pour francais offers a premier platform to track the top contenders and place informed bets.

Let's take a look at the top heavyweight boxers of 2025, examining their achievements, unique skill sets, and what sets them apart as the best in the world.

1. Oleksandr Usyk – World Heavyweight Champion

Oleksandr Usyk has cemented his place as one of the most skilled and accomplished heavyweights of this era. A former undisputed cruiserweight champion, Usyk made a seamless transition to the heavyweight division, proving that his technical mastery, footwork, and ring IQ could overcome size disadvantages against bigger, stronger opponents.

His two victories over Anthony Joshua in 2021 and 2022 showcased his ability to outmaneuver and outthink top-tier heavyweights. In 2024, he added another chapter to his legacy by defeating Tyson Fury to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, an achievement that further solidified his place among the greats.

At 38 years old in 2025, Usyk remains a dominant force, with rumors swirling that he may only have two fights left before retirement. As one of the most technically refined fighters in the division, he continues to be a nightmare matchup for anyone looking to take his crown. Whether he chooses to unify further or defend against new challengers, Usyk’s presence in the division keeps the sport at its highest level.

2. Tyson Fury – The 'Retired' Star

Tyson Fury, the larger-than-life figure of heavyweight boxing, has once again stepped away from the ring, announcing his retirement—though with Fury, retirement is never a certainty. Known for his showmanship, unpredictable nature, and elite boxing skills, the self-proclaimed “Gypsy King” has captivated the sport for over a decade.

Fury’s career-defining moments include his 2015 victory over Wladimir Klitschko, which ended the Ukrainian’s long reign, and his unforgettable trilogy with Deontay Wilder, solidifying his reputation as one of the most resilient and entertaining heavyweights in history. His undefeated run came to an end in 2024 at the hands of Oleksandr Usyk in their undisputed heavyweight showdown, but even in defeat, Fury remained a marquee attraction.

Now in 2025, Fury is officially retired, though speculation about a return never stops. Whether he stays away from the sport or laces up his gloves once more, his status as a global superstar and one of the most charismatic figures in boxing history is undeniable. If the right fight comes along, don’t be surprised if the Gypsy King decides to reclaim his throne.

3. Anthony Joshua – The Comeback Quest

Anthony Joshua, once the dominant force in heavyweight boxing, is now on a determined comeback quest. The former unified world champion held the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles for years, showcasing his power, athleticism, and finishing ability. However, back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022 forced Joshua to reset and rebuild.

After taking time to refine his approach, Joshua returned to the ring with renewed focus, stringing together key victories to reestablish himself as a top contender. While some doubted whether he could regain his championship form, Joshua proved he was far from finished. His knockout wins over Otto Wallin and an MMA fighter in 2024 reminded the world why he was once considered the future of the division. His return to greatness was suddenly halted last year in a crushing defeat to IBF title holder Daniel Dubois.

Now in 2025, Joshua is in pursuit of heavyweight gold once again. With his power still a dangerous weapon and his experience making him a smarter fighter, he remains a key figure in the title picture. Whether his comeback leads to another reign or not, Joshua’s journey back to the top is one of the most compelling storylines in the division.

4. Joe Joyce – The Hard Road Back

Joe Joyce, once an unstoppable force in the heavyweight division, now finds himself on the hard road back. Known for his granite chin, relentless pressure, and thudding power, Joyce bulldozed through contenders and captured the WBO interim heavyweight title, looking destined for a world championship shot. However, back-to-back stoppage losses to Zhilei Zhang in 2023 derailed his momentum and raised serious questions about his durability and ability to adjust. Joyce also lost to veteran Derek Chisora in 2024, further derailing his title hopes, but a scheduled match against former contender Dillian White in April gives Joyce his chance to re-enter the top heavyweight discussion.

At 39 years old, Joyce refuses to fade away quietly. Determined to reclaim his standing among the elite, he has made key adjustments to his training and approach, looking to refine his defensive skills while maintaining the pressure-fighting style that made him a nightmare for opponents.

The road back is never easy, and for Joyce, every fight is now a must-win. With the division stacked with hungry challengers and top-tier champions, he must prove that he still belongs at the highest level. Whether he can rise again or if time has caught up with him remains to be seen, but if there’s one thing Joyce has never lacked, it’s the will to fight through adversity.

5. Deontay Wilder – Outside Looking In

Deontay Wilder, once the most feared puncher in the heavyweight division, now finds himself on the outside looking in. The former WBC heavyweight champion held the belt for five years, terrorizing opponents with his devastating right hand and recording an astonishing knockout percentage. His trilogy with Tyson Fury cemented his place in boxing history, but back-to-back losses to Fury exposed defensive flaws that he has struggled to correct.

Since then, Wilder’s career has been a rollercoaster. A quick knockout over Robert Helenius in 2022 suggested he still had plenty left in the tank, but a lackluster performance and decision loss to Joseph Parker in late 2023 raised doubts about whether the “Bronze Bomber” could still compete at the highest level. A brutal knockout defeat at the hands of Zhilei Zhang in 2024 only deepened those concerns.

Now in 2025, Wilder remains a dangerous fighter, but without a clear path back to the top. At 38, questions about his motivation, adaptability, and ability to take punishment are louder than ever. He is still one of the biggest names in the sport, but unless he can prove he’s more than just a puncher, the heavyweight title picture may move on without him.

6. Oleksandr Usyk’s Potential Rivals – The Next Heavyweight Wave

The heavyweight division’s established stars may dominate the headlines, but a new wave of contenders is rapidly emerging, ready to shake up the landscape. Fighters like Daniel Dubois, Agit Kabayel, Filip Hrgović, Martin Bakole, Moses Itauma, Fabio Wardley, and Zhilei Zhang are all positioning themselves for major opportunities.

Dubois continues to refine his raw power with growing experience, setting his sights on another shot at the division’s elite. Hrgović remains an undefeated powerhouse, steadily grinding his way toward a title opportunity. Kabayel has forced his way into the conversation with eye-catching performances, proving himself as a relentless and well-rounded threat. Meanwhile, Zhang’s size and precision have already secured him marquee victories, making him a dangerous matchup for any top contender.

With the heavyweight division in constant flux, this new generation of fighters is ready to make its mark—pushing past the old guard and staking their claim among boxing’s best.