The Ring Ratings Reviewed 2024: Heavyweight

Usyk proved his doubters wrong by overcoming many disadvantages, including size, to defeat Joshua once again.

The Ring first introduced its divisional ratings in 1925. Almost a century later, these independent ratings remain the most respected and talked-about in the boxing world.

The Ring Ratings Panel consists of a dozen experts from around the globe who engage in discussions, debates, and democratically decide on the weekly rankings. While it may seem simple, this process can be time-consuming and challenging.

I will be reviewing each division in reverse order, starting from strawweight and working my way up to heavyweight. I will examine the accomplishments of each ranked fighter and provide insights into their future prospects.

Next on the list is the heavyweight division, which has witnessed several marquee matchups in the past year, with the bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury standing out as a highlight that lived up to the hype and crowned an undisputed champion.

Enjoy the discussions and remember to respect the opinions of others.

CHAMPION – OLEKSANDR USYK

RECORD: 22-0 (14 KOs)

THE PAST: Usyk, a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, dominated the cruiserweight division by defeating top contenders like Krzysztof Glowacki, Marco Huck, Mairis Briedis, Murat Gassiev, and Tony Bellew in their home countries. His performance against Gassiev to become the undisputed champion was particularly impressive. Upon moving up to the heavyweight division, Usyk faced challenges due to injuries and the pandemic. Despite these setbacks, he managed wins against fighters like Chazz Witherspoon and Derek Chisora before stunning Anthony Joshua to claim the IBF, WBA, and WBO titles. In a rematch, he outclassed Joshua again and secured the Ring title. He further solidified his legacy by defeating Daniel Dubois and becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion by defeating Tyson Fury.

THE FUTURE: Usyk is set for a rematch against Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 21.

No. 1 – TYSON FURY

RECORD: 34-1-1 (24 KOs)

THE PAST: Fury’s journey to the top included victories in British, Commonwealth, and European title fights. He pulled off a major upset by defeating Wladimir Klitschko to become the Ring champion and unified IBF/WBA/WBO titlist in 2015. Fury faced personal challenges but made a remarkable comeback, culminating in a convincing victory over Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC belt and the Ring championship. Notable wins against Dillian Whyte and Derek Chisora in the UK showcased Fury’s resilience and skill. Despite a defeat to Usyk, Fury remains a formidable force in the heavyweight division.

THE FUTURE: Fury is scheduled to face Usyk in a rematch in Riyadh on December 21.

No. 2 – DANIEL DUBOIS

RECORD: 22-2 (21 KOs)

THE PAST: Dubois, a former amateur standout, transitioned to the professional ranks with impressive wins. His victory against Anthony Joshua solidified his position as a rising star in the heavyweight division. Despite setbacks, Dubois showcased his resilience by defeating Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic. His recent triumph over Anthony Joshua further elevated his status in the division.

THE FUTURE: Dubois is expected to return to the ring on a card in Riyadh in February.

Joseph Parker lands a left jab to the body of Deontay Wilder during a heavyweight fight at the Day of Reckoning event at Kingdom Arena on December 23, 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing via Getty Images).

No. 3 – JOSEPH PARKER

RECORD: 35-3 (23 KOs)

THE PAST: Parker, an amateur standout from New Zealand, captured the vacant WBO title and made successful defenses before facing Anthony Joshua in a unification bout. Despite some losses, Parker rebounded with impressive victories over tough opponents like Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.

THE FUTURE: Parker is awaiting his next opponent announcement after his successful performances in Saudi Arabia.

No. 4 – ZHILEI ZHANG

RECORD: 27-2-1 (22 KOs)

THE PAST: Zhang, a former Olympian from China, made a notable transition to the professional ranks by defeating top opponents like Joe Joyce and Deontay Wilder. Despite setbacks, Zhang continues to showcase his skills in the heavyweight division.

THE FUTURE: Zhang is awaiting news on his next fight.

No. 5 – AGIT KABAYEL

RECORD: 25-0 (17 KOs)

THE PAST: Kabayel, a former kickboxer turned boxer, has made significant strides in the heavyweight division with wins over notable opponents like Derek Chisora and Frank Sanchez.

THE FUTURE: Kabayel is set to participate in an eliminator against Martin Bakole.

No. 6 – MARTIN BAKOLE

RECORD: 21-1 (16 KOs)

THE PAST: Bakole, a rising star from Congo, has earned impressive victories over seasoned opponents like Mariusz Wach and Kevin Johnson. His recent wins signify his potential to become a contender in the heavyweight division.

THE FUTURE: Bakole is gearing up for an eliminator against Agit Kabayel.

Congolese Boxer, Martin Bakole received a hero’s welcome, after beating US Boxer, Jared Anderson to win the WBO International and WBO-NABO Heavyweight titles.

He has a record of 21 wins and 1 loss in his Boxing career. pic.twitter.com/3K6dvJjpaD

— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) August 12, 2024

No. 7 – ANTHONY JOSHUA

RECORD: 26-2 (20 KOs)

THE PAST: Joshua’s career has been marked by noteworthy victories against top opponents like Charles Martin, Wladimir Klitschko, and Joseph Parker. Despite setbacks, Joshua remains a formidable force in the heavyweight division.

THE FUTURE: Joshua is reassessing his options after recent losses in the ring.

Proactive talks 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh 🇸🇦

Thank you to all my supporters who came to the fight, I appreciate you all 🙏 https://t.co/0ujGVJDFQO

— Anthony Joshua (@anthonyjoshua) September 25, 2024

No. 8 – FILIP HRGOVIC

RECORD: 17-1 (14 KOs)

THE PAST: Hrgovic, a skilled Croatian boxer, has made significant progress in the heavyweight division with wins over notable opponents. Despite recent setbacks, Hrgovic remains a promising talent in the division.

THE FUTURE: Hrgovic is focused on securing a win to resume his career.

No. 9 – FABIO WARDLEY

RECORD: 18-0-1 (17 KOs)

THE PAST: Wardley, a rising star in the heavyweight division, has showcased his power with wins over notable opponents like Eric Molina and David Adeleye. His recent victories have garnered attention and set the stage for exciting opportunities in the future.

THE FUTURE: Wardley is poised for bigger opportunities in the upcoming year.

All in the details 📝👨‍🎓🥊@BenDavison_ @leewylieboxing @Turki_alalshikh pic.twitter.com/Ll3AeXdDln

— Fabio Wardley (@FabioWardley) October 17, 2024

No. 10 – EFE AJAGBA

RECORD: 20-1 (14 KOs)

THE PAST: Ajagba, a Nigerian prospect, has shown promise in the heavyweight division with wins over skilled opponents. His recent performances have set the stage for future opportunities in the division.

THE FUTURE: Ajagba is gearing up for his next fight in early 2025.

On the Cusp: Jared Anderson, Justis Huni, Michael Hunter, Bakhodir Jalalov, and Frank Sanchez

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