Get ready for an explosive year in boxing, as Australia's boxing scene is about to heat up! We've got some bold predictions that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The Rise of the Champions: A Boxing Revolution
Australia is set to dominate the boxing world with an incredible three male world champions. Our fighters have faced their fair share of challenges, but 2026 is their year to shine! With 19 Aussie heavyweights to strawweights ranked in the top 15, the stage is set for some epic battles.
But here's where it gets interesting...
Cruiserweight Clash: Jai Opetaia, the avoided champion, will finally get his big break. We predict a showdown with David Benavidez, the current cruiserweight king. This battle for supremacy will be an undisputed slobberknocker, leaving fans in awe.
Jake Paul's Next Move: The controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul, is not done yet. After his jaw-dropping fight with Anthony Joshua, Paul is eyeing another big name - Israel Adesanya. With his massive social media following and a natural cruiserweight build, Adesanya is a perfect match. Who wouldn't want a piece of that action?
Dana White's Boxing Adventure: Dana White, the UFC boss, is making waves in the boxing world. He's not just bringing his 'UFC treatment' to prospects; he's also planning massive events like Canelo-Crawford. White's Zuffa Boxing machine is set to shake things up.
Tim Tszyu's Redemption: Tim Tszyu, the 'Soul Taker' (or should we say, 'Phoenix'), is back with a vengeance. Despite his recent losses, we predict he'll rise like a phoenix and land a megafight. This time, he'll be the B-side, but his name and previous US battles give him an edge.
See AlsoNick Kyrgios: Australian Open Wildcard or Qualifying? His Stance on CompetingTess Coady's Road to the 2026 Winter Olympics: From Injuries to Medal ContenderEmotional Kasatkina Debuts for Australia! Tears, Pressure & Aussie SupportUsman Khawaja's Emotional Farewell, DRS Drama & Marnus Labuschagne's Run-Out | SCG Test HighlightsPaul Gallen's Comeback?: Retirements are never final in the world of boxing, especially when cash is involved. Paul Gallen, the retired legend, might just step back into the ring against Nelson Asofa-Solomona (NAS). If this fight happens, it'll be a blockbuster, outselling even his previous bout with SBW.
Nikita Tszyu's American Dream: Nikita Tszyu, the youngest Tszyu sibling, is ready to step out of his brother's shadow. If he beats Michael Zerafa, we predict a genuine Aussie sports star in the making. The Butcher might even headline in Australia before his US debut.
Eddie Hearn's Australian Adventure: Fresh from his Netflix documentary, Eddie Hearn is heading to Australia. He's eager to collaborate with No Limit, Australia's top promoter, for a massive 5V5 showcase. The Rose boys are already on board, having discussed this idea with Hearn over drinks in the UK.
AJ's Global Impact: Tragedy struck UK superstar Anthony Joshua, but his impact on boxing is undeniable. As he grieves and plots his comeback, fight fans worldwide will rally behind him. Joshua's road back will be tough, but his popularity ensures a supportive global audience.
Liam Paro's Double Win: Liam Paro, the Mackay slugger, is on a mission. Despite the cancellation of his IBF eliminator, we predict he'll navigate the challenges and become a two-division world champion. An all-Australian showcase against George Kambosos might just be on the cards.
Inoue's Reign Continues: Naoya Inoue, Japan's terror outside Godzilla, is not done yet. We predict he'll beat Junto Nakatani and move up to win gold against England's Nick Ball. Inoue will become boxing's Pound For Pound king, reigning supreme.
Sam Goodman's Tattoo Mission: If Inoue's predictions come true, Sam Goodman will have a chance to make his mate's tattoo a reality. Goodman, the Central Coast fighter, is ranked to fight for three super bantamweight titles. His outstanding performance against Nick Ball last August puts him in the running for a shot at the title.
Harry Garside's Retirement: It's a tough one, but we expect Olympic bronze medallist Harry Garside to hang up his gloves this year. With other opportunities knocking and the risk of head trauma, it might be time for a new chapter.
Usyk's Farewell Tour: Oleksandr Usyk, the world's greatest heavyweight, might just be a perfect fit for Dancing With The Stars, but his fighting spirit is not done yet. We predict he'll have one huge fight in 2026, possibly against Deontay Wilder, before finally retiring undefeated in 2027.
Callum Peters' Gold Rush: Callum Peters, Australia's most exciting fight prospect, is on a winning streak. We predict he'll win gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, improving on his silver medal from Birmingham.
Andrew Moloney's Redemption: Andrew Moloney, Australia's unluckiest fighter, is set for a comeback. After being robbed twice in title fights and a premature retirement, we predict he'll become a world champion again in 2026. His next fight against IBF junior bantamweight Willibaldo Garcia might just be the feel-good story of the year.
Combat Sports Legends Unite: Francis Ngannou, Manny Pacquiao, and Floyd Mayweather are all expected to have fights in 2026. While we can't predict the outcomes, these legends will surely deliver some unforgettable moments.
Australia's Boxing Queen: With four women holding world titles, the race for Australia's fight queen is on. Cherneka Johnson, Ebonie Bridges, Desley Robinson, Kaye Scott, and Skye Nicolson are all contenders. Who will reign supreme?
Liam Wilson's Rematch: Liam Wilson, robbed of a world title against Emanual Navarrete, is due for a rematch. We predict No Limit will deliver, giving Wilson his long-awaited chance to prove himself.
Big Boys Battle: Justis Huni, after his heartbreaking loss, is set to bounce back into world title contention. Matchroom is also ramping up for Teremoana Jnr, an undefeated Aussie prospect. Domestically, fans can expect an unofficial heavyweight tournament.
Ahmad Reda's Rise: Keep an eye on Ahmad Reda, the undefeated Sydney prospect. At just 22, he's dropped two weight classes and is campaigning as a super featherweight. We predict a successful year, with a top 15 ranking by the end.
No Limit's Roadshow: Australia's top promoter, No Limit, is hitting the road. They're planning to take their show to new locations like Perth, Adelaide, Townsville, and Tasmania. Melbourne fans might just get a massive pay-per-view headliner.
Green/Mundine's Legacy: While a fight between the sons of Danny Green and Anthony Mundine might not happen soon, the chatter will build. Archie Green, trained by his father, and Rahim Mundine, already undefeated, could create a legacy battle worth millions.
Trilogies and Reigning Champions: If Jai Opetaia lands a superfight, we predict a trilogy between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. And Bam Rodriguez, the undefeated terror, will likely move up to become a champion in a third weight class.
Underdog Aussies Shine: Australia has a host of underdog fighters ready to snatch title shots. Jason Moloney, Jackson Jon England, Mateo Tapia, Dylan Biggs, and Conor Wallace are all capable of landing huge bouts in 2026.
UFC-NRL Crossover: With several Australian UFC stars nearing the end of their careers, we might see a massive crossover fight. Rob Whittaker or Tai Tuivasa could take on an exiled NRL star like Zac Lomax, who's not afraid to throw hands.
These predictions are sure to spark some controversy and debate. What do you think? Will these bold predictions come true? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the future of boxing!
