The year 2024 has been nothing short of exceptional for the world of boxing, featuring a plethora of extraordinary talents who have showcased remarkable skills inside the ring. From thrilling bouts to jaw-dropping displays of athleticism, this year’s boxing calendar has set a high bar for what fans can expect from their favorite fighters. With the calendar year winding down, the quest to determine who ranks among the top ten pound-for-pound (P4P) fighters has also mounted a compelling narrative. This article endeavors to analyze the current landscape of elite boxing, highlighting those who have distinguished themselves in a competitive landscape.
At the forefront of 2024’s elite boxers is Oleksandr Usyk, a fighter whose significance in the heavyweight division cannot be overstated. Usyk demonstrated remarkable prowess when he faced off against Tyson Fury in two gripping encounters. Both fights showcased Usyk’s blend of speed, agility, and ring intelligence, as he outmaneuvered the larger Fury. This year solidified Usyk’s status not merely as a champion but as one of boxing’s most finely-tuned athletes. He has undoubtedly set a standard, raising questions about the future landscape of the heavyweight division.
Originally renowned as “The Monster,” Naoya Inoue has proven himself to be an unstoppable force in the super-bantamweight category. Although his December bout against Sam Goodman faced postponement due to unforeseeable circumstances, Inoue still managed to execute two highly impressive victories earlier in the year. His confrontational style and ferocious finishing ability have made him a fan favorite, as well as a formidable knockout artist. The anticipation surrounding his future fights in 2025 signals that he is ready to tackle new challenges, further establishing his legacy.
Terence Crawford, often referred to as “Bud,” marked his territory in 2024 with precision and flair. Despite only stepping into the ring once, he took home a coveted title by moving up to the junior middleweight class, demonstrating the adaptability and strategic prowess that characterize his career. His victory over Israel Madrimov, where he captured the WBA title, highlighted his exceptional boxing acumen. As fans ponder the possibility of Crawford retiring unbeaten, his legacy looms larger than life, positioning him among the greats.
Canelo Alvarez, entering the year at age 34, continued to defy age with his striking prowess and endurance. In 2024, he faced two promising unbeaten challengers — Jaime Munguia and Edgar Berlanga — decisively beating both. These victories reinforce Canelo’s stature as one of boxing’s timeless icons, and fans are already buzzing about potential matchups in 2025 that could further elevate his standing. Canelo’s ability to evolve in a sport that is ever-changing is a testament to his extraordinary talent.
Artur Beterbiev solidified his claim as the kingpin of the light heavyweight division with two decisive performances this year. His victory over Callum Smith and a hard-fought win against Dmitry Bivol to unify the division demonstrated not only his power but also a surprising depth of technique. With a scheduled rematch against Bivol on the horizon, anticipation around Beterbiev’s bouts promises to deliver electrifying action and can redefine legacies.
Despite a setback against Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol remains a household name in boxing. Known for his technical skills and endurance, he further showcased his ability by comprehensively defeating Malik Zinad, allowing him to stay in the conversation among the elite. His close match with Beterbiev fueled his desire for revenge, ensuring that his journey in the sport is far from over. Bivol’s resilience is a defining characteristic, and his upcoming matches will only enhance his reputation.
The emergence of new talent provides exciting prospects for boxing’s future. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, with two thrilling knockout victories, is being touted as the next big thing in the sport. His dazzling performances leave fans eager for more. Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ notable yet insufficient fight activity raises questions about his management and future interactions in elite bouts. Meanwhile, Junto Nakatani has emerged as a key rival to Inoue, having achieved three notable KO victories this year.
Lastly, Shakur Stevenson remains at a pivotal crossroads in his career. His singular fight in 2024 showcased impressive talent but raised eyebrows regarding his engagement level. Often critiqued for being ‘boring’, he possesses gifts that could elevate him further within boxing’s hierarchy. As fans hope for a more active 2025 from him, the potential remains high for Stevenson to carve a more defined path among the sport’s elite.
As we look forward to 2025, the vibrancy and competitiveness of boxing are undeniable. The ongoing stories and rivalries promise an exciting future for fans and fighters alike. The question of who will ultimately emerge as the top pound-for-pound fighter becomes not just a title, but a narrative that will continue to unfold in the annals of boxing history.