Sports
Boxing divisional rankings: Nakatani makes debut at 122 pounds; Joshua re-enters at heavyweight
The holiday season is normally slow in boxing but not this year.
The end of 2025 saw some movement as a former heavyweight champion made his way back into the rankings and an undisputed champion cemented his dominance, while a future opponent wasn’t quite as impressive in his divisional debut.
Anthony Joshua got back to his winning ways with a knockout win over Jake Paul on Dec. 19. Joshua, who had been out of action since losing by knockout to Daniel Dubois in 2024, returned to the rankings at No. 6. The highly anticipated all U.K. showdown with Tyson Fury appears to finally have some motion as “The Gypsy King” announced his return to the ring and their clash could happen before the end of the year.
Naoya Inoue was his usual dominant self as he earned a wide unanimous decision win over David Picasso on Dec. 27 to defend his undisputed junior featherweight crown, cementing his No. 1 spot in the division. He picked up his fourth win of 2025 and is now set for a collision course with Junto Nakatani in early 2026. Meanwhile, Nakatani wasn’t quite as impressive in his junior featherweight debut as he narrowly squeezed past Sebastian Hernandez in the co-main event. Nakatani debuts at No. 4 at junior featherweight. Whether it was the move up in weight or an extremely determined and underrated opponent has yet to be determined. But the win secures one of the biggest showdowns in Japanese boxing history.
Here are the first divisional rankings of 2026.
ESPN’s divisional boxing rankings highlight the best in the sport in every weight class. Rankings will change based on recent results and performances. Fighters who have announced they are moving to a different weight class will be ranked in that new division, if warranted, only once they fight in that weight class. Fighters who currently own titles in two divisions can be ranked in both.
Fighters who haven’t competed in the past 12 months — and don’t have a fight scheduled — will be dropped from the rankings until they fight again. Any fighter who tests positive for a performance-enhancing substance will also be removed. That boxer will be eligible to reenter the rankings after his next bout.
For a list of the current champions in all weight classes, click here. For ESPN women’s divisional rankings, click here.
Heavyweight – Cruiserweight – Light heavyweight – Super middleweight – Middleweight – Junior middleweight – Welterweight – Junior welterweight – Lightweight – Junior lightweight – Featherweight – Junior featherweight – Bantamweight – Junior bantamweight – Flyweight – Junior flyweight – Strawweight
HEAVYWEIGHT (UNLIMITED)
2:52
Oleksandr Usyk unanimously defeats Tyson Fury in rematch
Oleksandr Usyk retains the heavyweight championship with another decision victory over Tyson Fury on Saturday, this time unanimously in an epic rematch.
1. Oleksandr Usyk 
Previous ranking: 1
Record: 24-0, 15 KOs
Last: W (KO5) Daniel Dubois, July 19
Next: TBA
2. Tyson Fury Previous ranking: 2
Record: 34-2-1, 24 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Oleksandr Usyk, Dec. 21
Next: TBA
3. Daniel Dubois Previous ranking: 3
Record: 22-3, 21 KOs
Last: L (KO5) Oleksandr Usyk, July 19
Next: TBA
4. Fabio Wardley Previous ranking: 4
Record: 20-0-1, 19 KOs
Last: W (TKO11) Joseph Parker, Oct. 25
Next: TBA
5. Joseph Parker Previous ranking: 5
Record: 36-4, 24 KOs
Last: L (TKO11) Fabio Wardley, Oct. 25
Next: TBA
6. Anthony Joshua 
Previous ranking: NR
Record: 29-4, 26 KOs
Last: W (KO6) Jake Paul, Dec. 19
Next: TBA
7. Agit Kabayel 
Previous ranking: 6
Record: 26-0, 18 KOs
Last: W (KO6) Zhilei Zhang, Feb. 22
Next: Jan. 10 vs. Damian Knyba
8. Filip Hrgovic Previous ranking: 7
Record: 19-1, 14 KOs
Last: W (UD10) David Adeleye, Aug. 16
Next: TBA
9. Moses Itauma Previous ranking: 8
Record: 14-0, 12 KOs
Last: W (TKO1) Dillian Whyte, Aug. 16
Next: Jan. 24 vs. Jermaine Franklin Jr.
10. Zhilei Zhang Previous ranking: 9
Record: 27-3-1, 22 KOs
Last: L (KO6) Agit Kabayel, Feb. 22
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Andy Ruiz Jr. has been removed for inactivity.
CRUISERWEIGHT (UP TO 200 POUNDS)
1. Jai Opetaia Previous ranking: 1
Record: 29-0, 23 KOs
Last: W (KO8) Huseyin Cinkara, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
2. Gilberto Ramirez Previous ranking: 2
Record: 46-1, 30 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Yuniel Dorticos, June 28
Next: Jan. 16 vs. Robin Sirwan Safar
3. Chris Billam-Smith Previous ranking: 3
Record: 21-2, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Brandon Glanton, April 26
Next: TBA
4. Noel Mikaelian Previous ranking: 4
Record: 28-3, 12 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Badou Jack, Dec. 13
Next: TBA
5. Badou Jack Previous ranking: 5
Record: 29-4-3, 17 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Noel Mikaelian, Dec. 13
Next: TBA
6. Aleksei Papin Previous ranking: 6
Record: 19-1, 17 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Miljan Rovcanin, July 19
Next: TBA
7. Michal Cieslak Previous ranking: 7
Record: 28-2, 22 KOs
Last: W (TKO4) Jean Pascal, June 28
Next: TBA
8. Leonardo Mosquea Previous ranking: 10
Record: 18-0, 11 KOs
Last: W (KO8) Jeison Troncoso, Dec. 19
Next: TBA
9. Viddal Riley Previous ranking: NR
Record: 13-0, 7 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Cheavon Clarke, April 26
Next: TBA
10. Robin Sirwan Safar Previous ranking: NR
Record: 19-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Derick Miller Jr., Nov. 8
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Ryan Rozicki and Yamil Alberto Peralta have been removed for inactivity.
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT (UP TO 175 POUNDS)
1:01
The numbers behind Bivol’s rematch victory against Beterbiev
Take a look at the statistics from Dmitry Bivol’s win against Artur Beterbiev.
1. Dmitry Bivol Previous ranking: 1
Record: 24-1, 12 KOs
Last: W (MD12) Artur Beterbiev, Feb. 22
Next: TBA
2. Artur Beterbiev Previous ranking: 2
Record: 21-1, 20 KOs
Last: L (MD12) Dmitry Bivol, Feb. 22
Next: TBA
3. David Benavidez Previous ranking: 3
Record: 31-0, 25 KOs
Last: W (TKO7) Anthony Yarde, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
4. Callum Smith Previous ranking: 4
Record: 31-2, 22 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Joshua Buatsi, Feb. 22
Next: TBA
5. David Morrell Jr. Previous ranking: 5
Record: 12-1, 9 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Imam Khataev, July 12
Next: TBA
6. Imam Khataev Previous ranking: 6
Record: 11-1, 10 KOs
Last: W (KO3) Adam Deines, Dec. 11
Next: TBA
7. Anthony Yarde Previous ranking: 7
Record: 27-4, 24 KOs
Last: L (TKO7) David Benavidez, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
8. Oleksandr Gvozdyk Previous ranking: 8
Record: 21-2, 17 KOs
Last: W (KO3) Anthony Hollaway, April 19
Next: TBA
9. Albert Ramirez Previous ranking: 9
Record: 22-0, 19 KOs
Last: W (TKO7) Jerome Pampellone, Aug. 8
Next: Feb. 5 vs. TBA
10. Joshua Buatsi Previous ranking: 10
Record: 20-1, 13 KOs
Last: W (MD10) Zach Parker, Nov. 1
Next: TBA
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT (UP TO 168 POUNDS)
1. Canelo Alvarez Previous ranking: 2
Record: 63-3-2, 39 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Terence Crawford, Sept. 13
Next: TBA
2. Hamzah Sheeraz Previous ranking: 4
Record: 22-0-1, 18 KOs
Last: W (KO5) Edgar Berlanga, July 12
Next: TBA
3. Christian Mbilli Previous ranking: 5
Record: 29-0-1, 24 KOs
Last: D (Split draw 10) Lester Martinez, Sept. 13
Next: TBA
4. Lester Martinez Previous ranking: 6
Record: 19-0-1, 16 KOs
Last: D (Split draw 10) Christian Mbilli, Sept. 13
Next: TBA
5. Diego Pacheco Previous ranking: 3
Record: 25-0, 18 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Kevin Lele Sadjo, Dec. 13
Next: TBA
6. Jermall Charlo Previous ranking: 7
Record: 34-0, 23 KOs
Last: W (TKO6) Thomas LaManna, May 31
Next: TBA
7. Jose Armando Resendiz Previous ranking: 9
Record: 16-2, 11 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Caleb Plant, May 31
Next: TBA
8. Osleys Iglesias Previous ranking: NR
Record: 14-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (TKO8) Vladimir Shishkin, Sept. 4
Next: TBA
9. Caleb Plant Previous ranking: 10
Record: 23-2, 14 KOs
Last: L (SD12) Jose Armando Resendiz, March 31
Next: TBA
10. Edgar Berlanga Previous ranking: 8
Record: 23-2, 18 KOs
Last: L (KO5) Hamzah Sheeraz, July 12
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Terence Crawford announced his retirement in December and has been removed from the rankings.
MIDDLEWEIGHT (UP TO 160 POUNDS)
1:08
Alimkhanuly lands two ferocious shots for TKO win
Janibek Alimkhanuly wins in stunning style over Anauel Ngamissengue in the fifth round.
1. Janibek Alimkhanuly Previous ranking: 1
Record: 17-0, 12 KOs
Last: W (TKO5) Anauel Ngamissengue, April 5
Next: TBA
2. Carlos Adames Previous ranking: 2
Record: 24-1-1, 18 KOs
Last: D (Split draw 12) Hamzah Sheeraz, Feb. 22
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Austin Williams
3. Erislandy Lara Previous ranking: 3
Record: 32-3-3, 19 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Johan Gonzales, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
4. Jesus Ramos Previous ranking: 4
Record: 24-1, 19 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Shane Mosley Jr., Dec. 6
Next: TBA
5. Conor Benn Previous ranking: 5
Record: 23-1, 14 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Chris Eubank Jr., Nov. 15
Next: TBA
6. Chris Eubank Jr. Previous ranking: 6
Record: 35-4, 25 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Conor Benn, Nov. 15
Next: TBA
7. Anauel Ngamissengue Previous ranking: 7
Record: 14-1, 9 KOs
Last: L (TKO5) Zhanibek Alimkhanuly, April 5
Next: TBA
8. Etinosa Oliha Previous ranking: 8
Record: 22-0, 10 KOs
Last: W (TKO3) Ivan Njegac, Sept. 12
Next: TBA
9. Fiodor Czerkaszyn Previous ranking: 9
Record: 26-1, 16 KOs
Last: W (TKO2) Patrick Allotey, Feb. 1
Next: TBA
10. Yoenli Hernandez Previous ranking: 10
Record: 9-0, 8 KOs
Last: W (TKO1) Ramon de la Cruz Sena, Oct. 12
Next: TBA
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT (UP TO 154 POUNDS)
1. Vergil Ortiz Jr. Previous ranking: 1
Record: 24-0, 22 KOs
Last: W (TKO2) Erickson Lubin, Nov. 8
Next: TBA
2. Sebastian Fundora Previous ranking: 2
Record: 23-1-1, 14 KOs
Last: W (TKO8) Tim Tszyu, July 19
Next: TBA vs. Keith Thurman
3. Jaron Ennis Previous ranking: 3
Record: 35-0, 31 KOs
Last: W (TKO1) Uisma Lima, Oct. 11
Next: TBA
4. Xander Zayas Previous ranking: 4
Record: 22-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Jose Garcia Perez, July 26
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Abass Baraou
5. Israil Madrimov Previous ranking: 5
Record: 10-2-1, 7 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Vergil Ortiz Jr., Feb. 22
Next: Jan. 24 vs. Luis David Salazar
6. Keith Thurman Previous ranking: 7
Record: 31-1, 23 KOs
Last: W (TKO3) Brock Jarvis, March 12
Next: TBA vs. Sebastian Fundora
7. Abass Baraou Previous ranking: 9
Record: 17-1, 9 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Yoenis Tellez, Aug. 23
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Xander Zayas
8. Brandon Adams Previous ranking: 10
Record: 26-4, 16 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Serhii Bohachuk, Sep. 13
Next: TBA
9. Serhii Bohachuk Previous ranking: NR
Record: 26-3, 24 KOs
Last: L (UD10) Brandon Adams, Sept. 13
Next: TBA
10. Bakary Samake Previous ranking: NR
Record: 19-0, 11 KOs
Last: W (KO5) Alejandro Ortiz, Oct. 25
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Tim Tszyu has moved up to the middleweight division. Bakhram Murtazaliev has been removed for inactivity.
WELTERWEIGHT (UP TO 147 POUNDS)
1. Devin Haney Previous ranking: 1
Record: 33-0-1 NC, 15 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Brian Norman Jr., Nov. 22
Next: TBA
2. Mario Barrios Previous ranking: 2
Record: 29-2-2, 18 KOs
Last: Draw (Majority draw 12) Manny Pacquiao, July 19
Next: Feb. 21 vs. Ryan Garcia
3. Brian Norman Jr. Previous ranking: 3
Record: 28-1, 22 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Devin Haney, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
4. Manny Pacquiao Previous ranking: 4
Record: 62-8-3, 39 KOs
Last: Draw (Majority draw 12) Mario Barrios, July 19
Next: TBA
5. Liam Paro Previous ranking: 5
Record: 27-1, 16 KOs
Last: W (UD12) David Papot, Sept. 18
Next: Jan. 16 vs. Paddy Donovan
6. Shakhram Giyasov Previous ranking: 6
Record: 17-0, 10 KOs
Last: W (KO4) Franco Ocampo, April 12
Next: TBA
7. Giovani Santillan Previous ranking: 7
Record: 34-1, 18 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Angel Beltran, May 10
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Courtney Pennington
8. Rolando Romero Previous ranking: 8
Record: 17-2, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Ryan Garcia, May 2
Next: TBA
9. Souleymane Cissokho Previous ranking: 9
Record: 18-0, 9 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Egidijus Kavaliauskas, May 10
Next: TBA
10. Lewis Crocker Previous ranking: 10
Record: 22-0, 11 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Paddy Donovan, Sept. 13
Next: TBA
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT (UP TO 140 POUNDS)
1. Teofimo Lopez Previous ranking: 1
Record: 22-1, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Arnold Barboza Jr., May 2
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Shakur Stevenson
2. Richardson Hitchins Previous ranking: 2
Record: 20-0, 8 KOs
Last: W (TKO8) George Kambosos Jr., June 14
Next: TBA
3. Subriel Matias Previous ranking: 3
Record: 23-2, 22 KOs
Last: W (MD12) Alberto Puello, July 12
Next: Jan. 10 vs. Dalton Smith
4. Alberto Puello Previous ranking: 4
Record: 24-1, 10 KOs
Last: L (MD12) Subriel Matias, July 12
Next: TBA
5. Gary Antuanne Russell Previous ranking: 5
Record: 18-1, 17 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Jose Valenzuela, March 1
Next: TBA
6. Arnold Barboza Jr. Previous ranking: 6
Record: 31-2, 11 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Teofimo Lopez, May 2
Next: TBA
7. Sandor Martin Previous ranking: 7
Record: 42-4, 15 KOs
Last: L (SD12) Alberto Puello, March 1
Next: TBA
8. Dalton Smith Previous ranking: 8
Record: 18-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Mathieu Germain, April 25
Next: Jan. 10 vs. Subriel Matias
9. Adam Azim Previous ranking: 9
Record: 14-0, 11 KOs
Last: W (TKO12) Kurt Scoby, Nov. 15
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Gustavo Lemos
10. Lamont Roach Jr. Previous ranking: 10
Record: 25-1-3, 10 KOs
Last: Draw (Majority draw 12) Isaac Cruz, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
LIGHTWEIGHT (UP TO 135 POUNDS)
1. Shakur Stevenson Previous ranking: 1
Record: 24-0, 11 KOs
Last: W (UD12) William Zepeda, July 12
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Teofimo Lopez Jr.
2. Gervonta Davis Previous ranking: 2
Record: 30-0-1, 28 KOs
Last: Draw (Majority draw 12) Lamont Roach, March 1
Next: TBA
3. Keyshawn Davis Previous ranking: 3
Record: 13-0, 9 KOs
Last: W (KO4) Denys Berinchyk, Feb. 14
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Jamaine Ortiz
4. William Zepeda Previous ranking: 4
Record: 33-1, 27 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Shakur Stevenson, July 12
Next: TBA
5. Andy Cruz Previous ranking: 5
Record: 6-0, 3 KOs
Last: W (TKO5) Hironori Mishiro, June 14
Next: Jan. 24 vs. Raymond Muratalla
6. Raymond Muratalla Previous ranking: 6
Record: 23-0, 17 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Zaur Abdullaev, May 10
Next: Jan. 24 vs. Andy Cruz
7. Abdullah Mason Previous ranking: 7
Record: 20-0, 17 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Sam Noakes, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
8. Floyd Schofield Previous ranking: 8
Record:19-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (KO1) Tevin Farmer, June 28
Next: TBA
9. Denys Berinchyk Previous ranking: 9
Record: 19-1, 9 KOs
Last: L (KO4) Keyshawn Davis, Feb. 14
Next: TBA
10. Sam Noakes Previous ranking: 10
Record: 17-1, 15 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Abdullah Mason, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHT (UP TO 130 POUNDS)
1:17
Emanuel Navarrete wins via technical decision despite injury
Emanuel Navarrete outlasts Charly Suarez despite a major cut to his head in the main event.
1. Emanuel Navarrete Previous ranking: 1
Record: 39-2-1, 31 KOs
Last: NC (no contest) Charly Suarez, May 10
Next: Feb. 28 vs. Eduardo Nunez
2. O’Shaquie Foster Previous ranking: 2
Record: 24-3, 12 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Stephen Fulton, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
3. Anthony Cacace Previous ranking: 3
Record: 24-1, 9 KOs
Last: W (TKO9) Leigh Wood, May 10
Next: March 14 vs. James Dickens
4. Ray Ford Previous ranking: 4
Record: 18-1-1, 8 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Abraham Nova, Aug. 16
Next: TBA
5. Robson Conceicao Previous ranking: 5
Record: 20-3-1 1 NC, 10 KOs
Last: W (KO6) Yonnaiquer Rondon, Aug. 2
Next: TBA
6. Eduardo Nunez Previous ranking: 6
Record: 29-1 27 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Christopher Diaz, Sept. 6
Next: Feb. 28 vs. Emanuel Navarrete
7. Andres Cortes Previous ranking: 7
Record: 24-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (KO4) Derlyn Hernandez-Gerarldo, Oct. 18
Next: TBA
8. Charly Suarez Previous ranking: 8
Record: 18-0, 10 KOs
Last: NC (No contest) Emanuel Navarrete, May 10
Next: TBA
9. James Dickens Previous ranking: 9
Record: 36-5, 15 KOs
Last: W (KO4) Albert Batyrgaziev, July 2
Next: March 14 vs. Anthony Cacace
10. Joe Cordina Previous ranking: 10
Record: 19-1, 9 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Gabriel Flores Jr., Dec. 13
Next: TBA
FEATHERWEIGHT (UP TO 126 POUNDS)
1. Rafael Espinoza Previous ranking: 1
Record: 28-0, 24 KOs
Last: W (KO11) Arnold Khegai, Nov. 15
Next: TBA
2. Nick Ball Previous ranking: 2
Record: 23-0-1, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Sam Goodman, Aug. 16
Next: Feb. 7 vs. Brandon Figueroa
3. Angelo Leo Previous ranking: 3
Record: 26-1, 12 KOs
Last: W (MD12) Tomoki Kameda, May 24
Next: TBA
4. Bruce Carrington Previous ranking: 4
Record: 16-0, 9 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Mateus Heita, July 26
Next: Jan. 31 vs. Carlos Castro
5. Luis Alberto Lopez Previous ranking: 5
Record: 32-3, 18 KOs
Last: W (TKO3) Miguel Arevalo Mejia, Dec. 13
Next: TBA
6. Brandon Figueroa Previous ranking: 6
Record: 26-2-1, 19 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Joet Gonzalez, July 19
Next: Feb. 7 vs. Nick Ball
7. Sam Goodman Previous ranking: NR
Record: 21-1, 8 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Tyler Blizzard, Dec. 17
Next: TBA
8. Tomoki Kameda Previous ranking: 7
Record: 42-5, 23 KOs
Last: L (MD12) Angelo Leo, May 24
Next: TBA
9. Mirco Cuello Previous ranking: 8
Record: 16-0, 13 KOs
Last: W (TKO2) Sergio Rios Jimenez, Aug. 8
Next: TBA
10. Nathaniel Collins Previous ranking: 9
Record: 17-0-1, 8 KOs
Last: Draw (Split draw 12) Cristobal Lorenta, Oct. 4
Next: TBA
JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHT (UP TO 122 POUNDS)
1. Naoya Inoue Previous ranking: 1
Record: 32-0, 27 KOs
Last: W (UD12) David Picasso, Dec. 27
Next: TBA
2. Marlon Tapales Previous ranking: 2
Record: 41-4, 22 KOs
Last: W (KO6) Fernando Toro, Oct. 29
Next: TBA
3. Murodjon Akhmadaliev Previous ranking: 3
Record: 14-2, 11 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Naoya Inoue, Sept. 14
Next: TBA
4. Junto Nakatani Previous ranking: NR
Record: 32-0, 24 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Sebastian Hernandez, Dec. 27
Next: TBA
5. Luis Nery Previous ranking: 5
Record: 36-2, 28 KOs
Last: W (TKO7) Kyonosuke Kameda, Feb. 22
Next: TBA
6. David Picasso Previous ranking: 6
Record: 32-1-1, 17 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Naoya Inoue, Dec. 27
Next: TBA
7. Ramon Cardenas Previous ranking: 7
Record: 26-2, 15 KOs
Last: W (TKO5) Erik Robles Ayala, Dec. 18
Next: TBA
8. Shabaz Masoud Previous ranking: 8
Record: 15-0, 4 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Peter McGrail, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
9. TJ Doheny Previous ranking: 9
Record: 26-6, 20 KOs
Last: L (TKO10) Nick Ball, March 15
Next: TBA
10. Ra’eese Aleem Previous ranking: 10
Record: 23-1, 12 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Mikito Nakano, Nov. 24
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Sam Goodman has moved up to the featherweight division.
BANTAMWEIGHT (UP TO 118 POUNDS)
1. Ryosuke Nishida Previous ranking: 2
Record: 10-1, 2 KO
Last: L (TKO6) Junto Nakatani, June 8
Next: Feb. 15 vs. Bryan Mercado Vazquez
2. Christian Medina Previous ranking: 3
Record: 26-4, 19 KOs
Last: W (TKO4) Yoshiki Takei, Sept. 14
Next: TBA
3. Seiya Tsutsumi Previous ranking: 5
Record: 13-0-3, 8 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Nonito Donaire, Dec. 17
Next: TBA
4. Yoshiki Takei Previous ranking: 4
Record: 11-1, 9 KOs
Last: L (TKO4) Christian Medina Jimenez, Sept. 14
Next: TBA
5. Takuma Inoue Previous ranking: 6
Record: 21-2, 5 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Tenshin Nasukawa, Nov. 24
Next: TBA
6. Daigo Higa Previous ranking: 7
Record: 21-3-3, 19 KOs
Last: Draw (Unanimous draw 12) Antonio Vargas, July 30
Next: TBA
7. Antonio Vargas Previous ranking: 8
Record: 19-1-1, 11 KOs
Last: Draw (Unanimous draw 12) Daigo Higa, July 30
Next: TBA
8. Tenshin Nasukawa Previous ranking: 9
Record: 7-1, 2 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Takuma Inoue, Nov. 24
Next: TBA
9. Kazuto Iokaa Previous ranking: NR
Record: 32-4-1, 17 KOs
Last: W (KO4) Maikel Ordosgoitti, Dec. 31
Next: TBA
10. Jason Moloney Previous ranking: 10
Record: 28-4, 20 KOs
Last: W (TKO4) Herlan Gomez, Dec. 6
Next: TBA
Editor’s note: Junto Nakatani has moved up to the junior featherweigh division. Roman Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada and Emmanuel Rodriguez have been removed for inactivity.
JUNIOR BANTAMWEIGHT (UP TO 115 POUNDS)
1. Jesse Rodriguez Previous ranking: 1
Record: 23-0, 16 KOs
Last: W (KO10) Fernando Martinez, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
2. Fernando Martinez Previous ranking: 2
Record: 18-1, 9 KOs
Last: L (KO10) Jesse Rodriguez, Nov. 22
Next: TBA
3. Phumelele Cafu Previous ranking: 4
Record: 11-1-3, 8 KOs
Last: L (TKO10) Jesse Rodriguez, July 19
Next: TBA
4. David Jimenez Previous ranking: 6
Record: 18-1, 12 KOs
Last: W (KO11) Kenbun Torres, July 20
Next: TBA
5. Willibaldo Garcia Perez Previous ranking: 7
Record: 23-6-2, 13 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Rene Calixto Bibiano, May 23
Next: TBA
6. Tomoya Tsuboi Previous ranking: NR
Record: 3-0, 2 KOs
Last: W (TKO8) Carlos Cuadras, Nov. 24
Next TBA
7. Andrew Moloney Previous ranking: 8
Record: 28-4, 18 KOs
Last: W (TKO5) Pawan Kumar Arya, Nov. 1
Next: TBA
8. Carlos Cuadras Previous ranking: 5
Record: 44-6-1, 28 KOs
Last: L (TKO8) Tomoya Tsuboi, Nov. 24
Next: TBA
9. Charlie Edwards Previous ranking: 9
Record: 21-2, 7 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Salvador Juarez, Sept. 5
Next: TBA
10. Rene Calixto Bibiano Previous ranking: 10
Record: 24-1-1, 10 KOs
Last: W (TKO4) Ruben Lezama Gonzalez, Dec. 6
Next TBA
Editor’s note: Kosei Tanaka retired and has been removed. KJ Cataraja has been removed for inactivity.
FLYWEIGHT (UP TO 112 POUNDS)
1. Ricardo Sandoval Previous ranking: 1
Record: 27-2, 18 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Kenshiro Teraji, July 30
Next: TBA
2. Kenshiro Teraji Previous ranking: 2
Record: 25-2, 16 KOs
Last: L (SD12) Ricardo Sandoval, July 30
Next: TBA
3. Seigo Yuri Akui Previous ranking: 3
Record: 22-3-1, 12 KOs
Last: W (KO3) Vencent Lacar, Dec. 17
Next: TBA
4. Francisco Rodriguez Jr. Previous ranking: 4
Record: 41-6, 28 KOs
Last: W (TKO2) Jesus Faro, Oct. 25
Next: TBA
5. Anthony Olascuaga Previous ranking: NR
Record: 11-1, 8 KOs
Last: W (TKO4) Taku Kuwahara, Dec. 21
Next: TBA
JUNIOR FLYWEIGHT (UP TO 108 POUNDS)
1. Rene Santiago Previous ranking: 1
Record: 15-4, 9 KOs
Last: W (SD12) Kyosuke Takami, Dec. 17
Next: TBA
2. Kyosuke Takami Previous ranking: 2
Record: 10-1, 8 KOs
Last: L (SD12) Rene Santiago, Dec. 17
Next: TBA
3. Carlos Canizales Previous ranking: 3
Record: 28-3-1, 20 KOs
Last: W (KO5) Petchmanee CP Freshmart, Aug. 1
Next: TBA
4. Knockout CP Freshmart Previous ranking: 4
Record: 29-1, 11 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Junior Leandro Zarate, Dec. 4
Next: TBA
5. Erik Badillo Mares Previous ranking: 5
Record: 19-0, 8 KOs
Last: W (UD10) Elwin Soto, Nov. 29
Next: TBA
STRAWWEIGHT (UP TO 105 POUNDS)
1. Oscar Collazo Previous ranking: 1
Record: 13-0, 10 KOs
Last: W (TKO7) Jayson Vayson, Sept. 20
Next: TBA
2. Pedro Taduran Previous ranking: 2
Record: 19-4-1, 13 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Christian Balunan, Oct. 26
Next: TBA
3. Melvin Jerusalem Previous ranking: 3
Record: 25-3, 12 KOs
Last: W (UD12) Siyakholwa Kuse, Oct. 29
Next: TBA
4. Yudai Shigeoka Previous ranking: 4
Record: 9-2, 5 KOs
Last: L (UD12) Melvin Jerusalem, March 30
Next: TBA
5. Ryusei Matsumoto Previous ranking: 5
Record: 7-0, 4 KOs
Last: W (TD5) Yuni Takeda, Sep. 14
Next: TBA
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PGA America CEO Derek Sprague, is stepping away from his role after one year to help support his mother and mother-in-law.
Sprague said he realized he needed to spend more time at home after his daughter’s wedding.
“At my daughter’s wedding last month in upstate New York, it became clear that my family needs me nearby to assist with the care of my mother and mother-in-law,” Sprague said in a statement. “Focusing on family has become my priority, and the best decision for me is to step away from my role as CEO and return home to be with them.”
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Derek Sprague announces on the first hole during the a.m. foursome matches for the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wis., Sept. 24, 2021. (Montana Pritchard/PGA of America)
Sprague took over in January 2025, becoming the first club professional in 20 years and the first PGA president appointed to the role. He informed the PGA of America board in early December he needed to go home to Malone, New York, and said he would stay on in an advisory role until his successor is found.
Sprague, who served as PGA president from 2014-16, was selected as CEO to replace Seth Waugh, the former Deutsche Bank Americas CEO who had been lured out of retirement in 2018.
PRO GOLFER JHONATTAN VEGAS WEIGHS IN AFTER TRUMP ORDERS ‘LARGE SCALE STRIKE’ IN VENEZUELA
Derek Sprague, CEO of the PGA of America, speaks to the media prior to the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Country Club in Charlotte, N.C., May 13, 2025. (Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
Waugh had been grooming Craig Kessler, the PGA’s chief operating officer, as a potential replacement, but the PGA board opted for one of its members. Kessler was appointed LPGA commissioner last summer.
Sprague stepping down extends the turnover in golf’s executive leadership. Brian Rolapp took over in August as CEO of the PGA Tour Enterprises, Kessler joined the LPGA in July and Mark Darbon is just over a year into his role as CEO of the R&A.
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Derek Sprague, PGA of America CEO, attends a press conference beside the Black Course at Bethpage State Park Golf Course Sept. 17, 2025 in Farmingdale, N.Y. (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Sprague was the PGA of America executive who reached out to Rory McIlroy to apologize for the verbal abuse that he and his wife endured at Bethpage Black during the Ryder Cup. McIlroy’s wife, Erica, previously worked at the PGA of America, and McIlroy said Sprague “couldn’t have been more gracious” in what he described as a “lovely letter.”
He was inducted into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2019.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Alabama‘s Ty Simpson, who is projected to be among the first quarterbacks selected in this year’s NFL draft, is passing up his senior year of college and turning pro.
Simpson wrote in an Instagram post that included a narrated video: “Grateful for every single second. Blessed beyond measure to be able to chase my dreams. Time to roll. Roll Tide.”
“It wasn’t all perfect, and it didn’t have to be, but every moment had meaning, and I gave Alabama my all,” Simpson said in the video. “And I got so much more in return. Coach [Nick] Saban was right — it was all worth it.”
Simpson, who started just one season for the Crimson Tide, informed Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb of his decision Wednesday, sources told ESPN.
Simpson’s father, UT-Martin football coach Jason Simpson, said his son received first-round grades from every NFL general manager they contacted.
“Nobody said second round,” Jason Simpson told ESPN.
ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. ranked Ty Simpson as the third-best quarterback eligible for the draft, behind Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza of Indiana and Oregon‘s Dante Moore, who haven’t yet declared.
Jason Simpson said his son also had offers to transfer to other Power 4 schools. Sources previously told ESPN that Miami, Oregon and Tennessee were interested in signing Simpson if he entered the transfer portal.
“There were very, very lucrative opportunities to play another year of college football,” Jason Simpson said.
Ty Simpson, a junior from Martin, Tennessee, completed 64.5% of his passes for 3,567 yards with 28 touchdowns and five interceptions in 2025, leading the No. 9 Crimson Tide to an 11-4 record.
After getting off to a sizzling start and being mentioned among the leading Heisman Trophy contenders, Simpson struggled late in the season, as Alabama’s lack of a running game put more pressure on him to produce in the passing game.
In the Crimson Tide’s final four games, Simpson completed 57% of his attempts for an average of 158.3 yards with six touchdowns and one interception.
Simpson suffered a cracked rib in the first half of a 38-3 loss to No. 1 Indiana in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl. He said the injury occurred after he took a helmet to the rib while scrambling for a first down late in the first half. He completed 12 of 16 passes for 67 yards against the Hoosiers.
Simpson signed with Saban out of high school in 2022. He was a backup for three seasons before finally replacing Jalen Milroe, who was selected in the 2025 draft by the Seattle Seahawks, as the starter this past season under DeBoer.
“You coach players and help them reach their goals and dreams,” Jason Simpson said. “Yes, they would love for him to come back. But if you’ve got an opportunity to go be a first-round pick in the NFL draft, you go. That’s why they pour all that into you, for that individual opportunity, so I really appreciated them.”
Darren Fletcher has an opportunity to make a unique piece of Premier League history when he takes charge of Manchester United on Wednesday.
United have turned to their under-18 manager Fletcher to temporarily replace Ruben Amorim, who was sacked.
Fletcher’s short-term appointment means that he will be in charge of not one but two of his sons, Jack Fletcher and Tyler Fletcher, who are part of United’s first-team squad amid a sea of injuries and AFCON exits.
Jack and Tyler, who are 18-year-old twins, were both on the bench for the draw away at Leeds, Amorim’s final game in charge of the club, and are now faced with the novelty of being available for selection under their father.
They would be the first brothers to both play under their father’s management, if they each make an appearance against Burnley.
– Ruben Amorim sacked as Man United manager
– Amorim calls out Man United bosses: ‘Do your jobs’
– Amorim wants control at United, but his outburst could cost him his job
Will Fletcher play either of his sons?
Jack Fletcher, a midfielder, made his United debut against Aston Villa as a substitute on Dec. 21. He then also came off the bench on Boxing Day against Newcastle, then against Wolves too.
Tyler, however, is yet to make a first-team debut. He is also a midfielder.
United started their previous match with Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in central midfield. Amorim brought on only one substitute, forward Joshua Zirkzee, in his last game.
Interestingly, the Fletcher family aren’t the only father-son[s] combination in the history of the Premier League, ESPN takes a look at some of the other famous family connections…
Jamie and Harry Redknapp
It was the second time Harry managed his son Jamie, but the first time in the Premier League. Previously, they worked together at Bournemouth in 1989 — when Jamie was just 16. However, they reunited on the south coast in January 2005 when Jamie signed for Southampton on a free transfer, becoming his father’s first signing at the club.
Jamie made 17 total appearances (16 in the Premier League and 1 in the FA Cup) before retiring at the end of the season citing persistent knee injuries.
Nigel and Brian Clough
Brian Clough managed his son, Nigel, throughout Nigel’s first spell as a player at Nottingham Forest from 1984 to 1993. During this period, Nigel made over 400 appearances and scored 131 goals under his father’s management. Together, they also won the Football League Cup in both 1989 and 1990.
Nigel also featured for England, securing 14 caps — all of which were earned during his time at Forest under his father. Nigel would later follow his famous father into management too, where he’d coach Derby County and Burton Albion amongst others.
Darren and Sir Alex Ferguson
Darren was handed his Manchester United debut by Sir Alex and went on to make 30 appearances across four years at the club. One of his longest stints in the team came when captain Bryan Robson suffered injury, resulting in Darren making 15 appearances for United in 1992-1993. As a result of making 10 appearances, Darren qualified for a Premier League winners medal that season.
He later moved on to Wolverhampton Wanderers and has since said that playing under his father at United was a difficult period.
Gavin and Gordon Strachan
Gavin played under his father at Coventry City, but those his appearances were limited. Of the 13 appearances he made during the period, 11 of them were as a substitute. He stayed at Coventry after their relegation in 2001 and left shortly after his father stepped down as manager in late 2001.
Gavin stayed in the game and went into coaching, most notably spending time as first team coach with Celtic. Interestingly, he also had a spell as assistant manager to Darren Ferguson on two occasions.
Alex and Steve Bruce
It wasn’t just the once for the Bruce’s. Alex Bruce played a total of 116 competitive games under the management of his father, Steve Bruce, across two different clubs. Alex first played under his father when he joined Birmingham in 2005 and then again at Hull City in July 2012. Alex played a key role for Hull as they secured promotions to the Premier League and reached the 2014 FA Cup Final.
The bond extended off the pitch and in the dugout too. After retiring as a player, Alex joined his father’s coaching staff at West Bromwich Albion in 2022, continuing their professional association.
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