As 2024 draws to a close, the combat sports world is abuzz with anticipation for several high-profile matchups. Boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) fans alike have a plethora of exciting bouts to look forward to. Here’s a rundown of the most anticipated fights scheduled for the remainder of the year.
1. Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk
Date: November 18, 2024
Venue: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Event: Undisputed Heavyweight Championship
In a historic clash, WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will face WBA, IBF, and WBO titleholder Oleksandr Usyk to crown the undisputed heavyweight champion. This bout marks the first time in over two decades that all four major heavyweight titles will be contested in a single fight. Fury’s unorthodox style and Usyk’s technical prowess promise a compelling contest.
2. Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson
Date: November 15, 2024
Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Event: Exhibition Boxing Match
Social media influencer turned boxer Jake Paul is set to face former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in a highly publicized exhibition match. Despite the age difference—Tyson at 58 and Paul at 27—the bout has garnered significant attention. The fight will feature modified rules, including eight two-minute rounds and 14-ounce gloves.
3. Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic
Date: November 16, 2024
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
Event: UFC 309 – Heavyweight Championship
UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones will defend his title against former champion Stipe Miocic. This bout marks Jones’ second fight at heavyweight after his successful debut earlier this year. Miocic, considered one of the greatest heavyweights in MMA history, aims to reclaim the title.
4. Jaron “Boots” Ennis vs. Karen Chukhadzhian 2
Date: November 9, 2024
Venue: Philadelphia, USA
Event: Welterweight Title Fight
In a rematch, Jaron “Boots” Ennis will defend his welterweight title against Karen Chukhadzhian. Their first encounter was a closely contested bout, and fans are eager to see how both fighters have adjusted their strategies for this highly anticipated sequel.
5. Subriel Matias vs. Roberto Ramirez
Date: November 9, 2024
Venue: Philadelphia, USA
Event: Super Lightweight Title Fight
Subriel Matias is set to defend his super lightweight title against Roberto Ramirez. Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, Matias faces a formidable opponent in Ramirez, who brings a strong record and technical skill to the ring.
6. Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler
Date: November 16, 2024
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
Event: UFC 309 – Co-Main Event
Former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira will take on Michael Chandler in the co-main event of UFC 309. Both fighters are known for their explosive styles and finishing abilities, making this a must-watch matchup for MMA enthusiasts.
7. Chris Billam-Smith vs. Richard Riakporhe
Date: December 15, 2024
Venue: Selhurst Park, London, UK
Event: WBO Cruiserweight Title Fight
In a highly anticipated domestic clash, Chris Billam-Smith will defend his WBO cruiserweight title against Richard Riakporhe. Both fighters have a history, with Riakporhe having previously defeated Billam-Smith in a close contest. This rematch is set to settle the score and determine the top cruiserweight in the UK.
8. Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. George Kambosos
Date: December 12, 2024
Venue: Perth, Australia
Event: IBF Lightweight Title Fight
Ukrainian boxing maestro Vasiliy Lomachenko is scheduled to challenge George Kambosos for the IBF lightweight title. Lomachenko, known for his exceptional footwork and technical prowess, faces Kambosos, who shocked the boxing world with his victory over Teofimo Lopez. This bout promises high-level boxing skill and strategy.
9. Emanuel Navarrete vs. Denys Berinchyk
Date: December 19, 2024
Venue: Pechanga Arena, San Diego, USA
Event: WBO Lightweight Title Fight
Emanuel Navarrete will defend his WBO lightweight title against Ukrainian contender Denys Berinchyk. Navarrete’s relentless pressure and high-volume punching will be tested against Berinchyk’s unorthodox style and resilience. This fight is expected to be an action-packed affair.
10. Jessica McCaskill vs. Lauren Price
Date: December 11, 2024
Venue: Cardiff International Arena, Cardiff, UK