Ahead of Oleksandr Usyk’s hotly anticipated rematch with Tyson Fury this Saturday, it is time to settle an age-old debate: who are boxing’s most elite operators?
Unlike in previous eras, this is a debate that has become more straightforward, with three two-division undisputed champions sitting firmly at the top of the tree.
The order in which they are placed, however, lends itself to greater subjectivity, often sparking a fierce discussion among even the most knowledgeable of fans.
That said, it is worth celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of five, bona fide pound-for-pound stars, regardless of the backlash that will inevitably follow.
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5. Dmitry Bivol
Despite losing a highly contentious majority decision to Artur Beterbiev in October, Dmitry Bivol is still widely regarded as the best light heavyweight on the planet.
The Russian exponentially elevated his profile after scoring a sizable upset against Canelo Alvarez, comprehensively outboxing the former pound-for-pound king back in 2022.
It was a performance, after all, that not only showcased his superior physical prowess, but also encapsulated his tremendous footwork and sharp counterpunching skills.
And so, ahead of his eagerly anticipated rematch with Beterbiev on February 22, Bivol has already proven that he has what it takes to become an undisputed champion.
4. Artur Beterbiev
It would be harsh not to place Beterbiev above his light heavyweight rival, even when considering the overwhelming response to his victory over Bivol.
Nevertheless, the 39-year-old has established himself as one of the most ferocious punchers in boxing, ending 20 of his 21 professional victories inside the distance.
More than that, Beterbiev’s extraordinary engine and underrated ring IQ has seen him dispatch the likes of Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Joe Smith Jr – two solid champions – in emphatic fashion.
3. Naoya Inoue
Like Beterbiev, Naoya Inoue is widely regarded as one of the sport’s most vicious finishers, boasting a near 90 percent knockout ratio through 28 victories.
Equally, the Japanese sensation has stormed past several world champions like a hot knife through butter, showing few signs of weakness in his awe-inspiring performances.
As the reigning king at 122 lbs, too, ‘The Monster’ has single-handedly brought new eyeballs to the lower divisions, with fans all tuning in for his explosive displays.
2. Terence Crawford
Shortly after amassing all the jewellery across two divisions, Terence Crawford cemented his greatness by moving up to 154 lbs, outpointing Israil Madrimov to become a four-weight world champion in his last outing.
But still, his performance against Errol Spence Jr alone should earn him a place on any pound-for-pound list.
Not only did Crawford halt his welterweight rival in the ninth-round of their contest last year, but he also shocked the world by making it a truly one-sided beatdown.
1. Oleksandr Usyk
Oleksandr Usyk’s terrific surge at cruiserweight – dethroning every champion on away soil – was enough to define his decorated legacy.
But then, in a bid to further cement his greatness, the Ukrainian made a bold jump up to heavyweight, giving away a huge size advantage.
Instead of surrendering to the strength and power of his bigger opponents, though, Usyk utilized his sharp reflexes and refined movement to secure monumental victories over Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.
At this point, the unbeaten southpaw can only keep reminding fans of his brilliance, looking to become known as one of the greatest fighters who ever lived.