The world of combat sports is gearing up for a thrilling 2026, and we've got some bold predictions that will keep you on the edge of your seat! But first, a shocking revelation: Australia's boxing scene is about to explode!
Aussie Champs Rising: Australia is poised to dominate with three male world champions. Despite recent setbacks, the nation's top fighters are ready to reclaim their glory. With 19 Aussies ranked in the top 15 across various weight classes, the stage is set for some epic battles.
Unification and Glory: Jai Opetaia, the cruiserweight king, will finally get his shot at David Benavidez, with both aiming to unify the division. This highly anticipated showdown is set to be a slugfest!
Paul vs. Adesanya: The Social Media Showdown: Jake Paul, fresh from his jaw-dropping encounter with Anthony Joshua, is eyeing another blockbuster fight. Why not Israel Adesanya, the two-time UFC champ and social media sensation? A clash of personalities and fighting styles awaits.
Dana White's Boxing Revolution: Dana White is making waves as a boxing promoter. Expect him to gift young prospects the 'UFC treatment' and orchestrate massive events, potentially rivaling the likes of Canelo-Crawford.
Tim Tszyu's Comeback: After a string of losses, Tim Tszyu is poised for a remarkable comeback. We predict he'll land a megafight, even if it's as the B-side. His name and previous Stateside success could propel him back to the top.
Gallen vs. NAS: The Cash Grab: Paul Gallen, despite retiring twice, might just be lured back for a lucrative bout against Nelson Asofa-Solomona. If not, we predict a fast-tracked Australian heavyweight title shot for No Limit's newest crossover star.
Nikita Tszyu's American Dream: Nikita Tszyu, the youngest Tszyu sibling, is on the cusp of becoming a household name. After beating Michael Zerafa, he could headline in Australia before conquering the US. A win over Zerafa might just be the boost he needs.
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AJ's Road to Redemption: Anthony Joshua's tragic loss of friends in a car accident has shaken the boxing world. While his megafight with Tyson Fury is on hold, we predict he'll have the support of fans worldwide as he navigates his comeback.
Liam Paro's Double Trouble: Liam Paro's path to becoming a two-division world champion is filled with twists. Despite recent setbacks, we believe he'll overcome challenges and potentially face George Kambosos in an all-Australian showdown.
Inoue's Reign of Terror: Naoya Inoue, Japan's boxing terror, will continue his dominance. Expect him to beat Junto Nakatani and move up the ranks, potentially dethroning England's Nick Ball. Inoue's reign as the Pound For Pound king is within reach.
Goodman's Tattooed Destiny: Sam Goodman, after an impressive performance against Nick Ball, is poised to fight for the super bantamweight title. It's time to make that tattoo on his friend's forearm a reality.
Garside's New Chapter: Olympic bronze medallist Harry Garside is expected to retire from boxing this year, exploring new opportunities without the risk of head trauma.
Usyk's Farewell Tour: Oleksandr Usyk, the heavyweight champ, will extend his farewell tour into 2026, with a potential fight against Deontay Wilder. He'll cash out late in 2027, still undefeated.
Callum Peters' Golden Run: Callum Peters, Australia's rising star, will win gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Despite a recent loss, he's on an upward trajectory.
Moloney's Feel-Good Story: Andrew Moloney, Australia's unluckiest fighter, is tipped to become world champion again. After being robbed in title fights and facing setbacks, he's next in line for IBF champ Willibaldo Garcia. A win here would be a true underdog story.
Combat Sports Legends Return: Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather are in talks for a potential rematch, while Mike Tyson might step into the ring for an exhibition. Meanwhile, Francis Ngannou, after rejecting a fight with Jake Paul, is expected to return to boxing.
Australia's Boxing Queens: Four Australian women hold world titles, and the competition is fierce. Cherneka Johnson leads the pack, but Ebonie Bridges, Desley Robinson, Kaye Scott, and Skye Nicolson are all contenders for the nation's fight queen crown.
Liam Wilson's Redemption: Liam Wilson, robbed of a world title years ago, is poised for a rematch with Emanual Navarrete. It's time for justice.
Heavyweight Battles: Justis Huni will bounce back into world title contention, while Matchroom's Teremoana Jnr will face tougher opponents. Domestically, a tournament will determine the heavyweight king, with Liam Talivaa, Stevan Ivic, and others in the mix.
Ahmad Reda's Rise: Ahmad Reda, an undefeated Sydney prospect, is dropping weight classes to campaign as a super featherweight. His team believes he'll crack the top 15 by year's end.
No Limit's Touring Extravaganza: No Limit is taking its roadshow to new locations, including Perth, Adelaide, Townsville, and Tasmania. Melbourne fans might even get a massive pay-per-view event.
Green vs. Mundine Legacy: The sons of Danny Green and Anthony Mundine are set to create headlines. Archie Green and Rahim Mundine, both undefeated, could generate massive interest, potentially rivaling the Eubank-Benn showdowns.
Trilogies and Undefeated Reigns: If Jai Opetaia fights David Benavidez, why not a trilogy between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev? And Bam Rodriguez will continue his reign, moving up to become champion in a third weight class.
Underdog Aussies Rising: Several Aussie fighters are on the cusp of title shots, including Jason Moloney, Jackson Jon England, and Mateo Tapia. Expect some major upsets.
UFC Stars Cross Over: Rob Whittaker or Tai Tuivasa might just take a massive crossover fight, and NRL star Zac Lomax could join the fray. These bouts will be must-watch events.
There you have it! Our bold predictions for a year of boxing brilliance. But here's where it gets controversial: Which of these predictions do you think will come true, and which will fall short? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's spark a lively debate!
