Boxing’s biggest questions in 2025: Fights, comebacks and retirements

As 2025 unfolds, the boxing world is bracing for a year that could reshape multiple divisions and redefine legacies. 

One of the biggest events on the calendar is set for Feb. 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where "The Last Crescendo" will bring together some of the sport’s most dangerous fighters. The card, featuring seven championship bouts, is headlined by Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol in a long-awaited rematch for the undisputed light-heavyweight title. 

Daniel Dubois will also put his IBF heavyweight crown on the line against Joseph Parker, a fight that could have massive implications depending on what happens next with Oleksandr Usyk.

With a supercharged start to the year, the following four storylines will define the months ahead.

Oleksandr Usyk to retire?

At 38, Usyk remains at the pinnacle of the heavyweight division, having unified the WBO, WBA and WBC titles with his second victory over Tyson Fury. 

However, retirement rumors continue to swirl, particularly with talks of a potential farewell bout against fellow Ukrainian legend Wladimir Klitschko. Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, has suggested that such a historic matchup could serve as the perfect conclusion to his career.

If Usyk does decide to step away, the heavyweight division could undergo a seismic shift. Dubois, currently preparing for his February 22 clash with Parker, would find himself in prime position to seize control of the division. However, should Usyk remain active, a rematch between the two could be inevitable—assuming Dubois gets past Parker first.

Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury: Will it finally happen?

The "Battle of Britain" between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury has been teased for years, yet it remains elusive. Fury’s recent announcement that he is retiring—yet again—has cast fresh doubt over the fight. Promoter Eddie Hearn, however, believes Fury’s claim is a tactical move and is still pushing for a showdown later in the year.

Joshua, meanwhile, is weighing his options for his next fight. If Fury walks away for good, AJ may have to pursue alternative routes to reclaiming the heavyweight throne. But if Fury decides to return, the long-awaited clash could finally become a reality—possibly by summer.

Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford: A superfight in the making?

Alvarez and Crawford are reportedly finalizing a deal for a blockbuster fight on Mexican Independence Day weekend in Las Vegas. The bout would see Crawford, undefeated in 41 fights and already a two-weight undisputed champion, move up two weight classes to challenge Canelo at super middleweight.

Despite the size difference, Crawford’s team remains confident. Trainer Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre believes his fighter’s superior ring IQ and adaptability will make him a real threat to Alvarez. If the fight is finalized, it would be one of the most intriguing stylistic matchups of the year.

Before a potential showdown with Crawford, Alvarez is expected to take another fight in May, as is tradition. His longtime trainer and manager, Eddy Reynoso, has identified IBF super middleweight champion William Scull and top-ranked contender Christian Mbilli as the frontrunners for that bout. 

Wladimir Klitschko to come out of retirement?

At nearly 49 years old, former heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko is rumored to be contemplating a return to the ring. If he follows through, he could attempt to surpass George Foreman as the oldest heavyweight champion in history.

The biggest potential fight on the table for Klitschko is undoubtedly a showdown with Usyk, creating an all-Ukrainian clash between the country’s most celebrated boxing icons. However, Klitschko has also emphasized his commitment to Ukraine amid the ongoing war, making his return to boxing anything but certain.