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The Sweet Science Weekly— December 15, 2025
This weekend delivered drama, knockouts, controversy, and crossover headlines that confirm once again: boxing never sleeps. From Dubai to Los Angeles to Miami build-ups, the sport’s news cycle has been firing on all cylinders.
Here’s your Monday must-read — results, backstage insight, social buzz, and what’s next.
GASSIEV STUNS HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD
In a moment that will be replayed for years, Murat Gassiev delivered a devastating sixth-round left hook to Kubrat Pulev on Friday night in Dubai, earning a one-punch, walk-off KO to capture the WBA (Regular) heavyweight title. Gassiev’s victory reshapes the heavyweight picture and re-establishes him as a serious name in a division starved for new narratives.
Gassiev was behind on the cards but dropped the veteran with a thunderous counter that abruptly ended the contest. The knockout marked Pulev’s first stoppage loss since 2012. Fans and pundits immediately began calling for Gassiev to face Moses Itauma or other top contenders in 2026; a matchup that would electrify the heavyweight landscape.
Reddit threads were ablaze with shock and admiration; many fans noting how Pulev controlled early rounds only to get caught late, while others praised Gassiev’s timing and power.
CRUISERWEIGHT REMATCH & JACK’S FUTURE
In Los Angeles on Saturday, Noel Mikaelian regained the WBC cruiserweight title, defeating Badou Jack via unanimous decision. All three judges scored in Mikaelian’s favor. Post-fight, Jack hinted this could be his last chapter in the sport.
Later, Jack (42 years old), confirmed that he had a fractured cheekbone as the result of an accidental headbutt mid-fight. He shared photos and messages on social media from his hospital stay, thanking fans for their support.
The boxing community expressed mixed reactions online — respect for Jack’s longevity but concern for fighter safety, especially in grueling championship fights. Is this the end of Badou Jack’s incredible multi-division career? If so, the sport will honor him as one of the most respected warriors of his era.
IN-RING SCARE: HOLLAWAY COLLAPSE
Prospect Anthony Hollaway collapsed after the fourth round of his cruiserweight fight against Cheavon Clarke. Hollaway had struggled through the middle rounds and showed signs of fatigue during Round 3 and 4, including excessive clinching and a point deduction during the fourth. At the bell ending Round 4, he was unable to maintain his balance on his stool, expressed difficulty breathing, and collapsed in his corner. This prompted a stretcher exit and urgent medical care. Thankfully, reports indicate he is now conscious and stable. Safety concerns remain a topic across boxing forums and social platforms.
BOXING’S BIGGEST STORY-LINE THIS WEEK — PAUL VS JOSHUA
The build-up to Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua continues to dominate headlines and social feeds. The bout is scheduled for December 19, 2025, at Miami’s Kaseya Center and will stream live exclusively on Netflix. Joshua, former two-time unified heavyweight champion, insists he will not take it easy and is focused on dominance. Paul’s camp has been posting intense sparring footage, revealing work with high-level partners. It was reported that Paul suffered a nose injury during doing one of these sessions.
Otto Wallin publicly urged Paul to cancel the fight, warning it could seriously harm Paul’s career if Joshua lands clean. Rumor has it that Deontay Wilder suggested Paul’s fights are “scripted” — a clear jab igniting debate among fans and fighters alike. MMA legend Anderson Silva, who has history with Paul, offered support, saying this matchup could validate Paul as a serious boxer. On Twitter/X and Reddit, fight fans are split — purists scoff at the spectacle, while crossover viewers are hyped for Netflix’s biggest fight event of the year.
Undercard Highlight:
The co-feature attraction on Most Valuable Promotions’ Netflix broadcast from the Kaseya Center in Miami sees undisputed 130-pound champion Alycia Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) return to defend her belts against determined challenger Leila Beaudoin (13-1, 2 KOs) in a twelve-round championship contest fought under three-minute-round rules.
FINAL TAKE
This weekend reminded boxing fans why December is one of the sport’s most intriguing months. World titles changed hands, legends battled younger contenders, and the biggest crossover event of 2025 is days away. Whether you’re here for tradition or spectacle, there is always something in the boxing world that will keep you entertained.
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