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Heavyweight rankings: Top 12 boxing big men rated by The Sporting News | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 12:46 GMT by Sporting News

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Heavyweight Hierarchy: Sporting News’ 2024 Top‑12 Ranking Unveiled

The world’s most powerful fighters are in constant motion, and the Sporting News has delivered a comprehensive snapshot of the upper echelons of the heavyweight division as of early 2024. The publication’s “Top 12 Heavyweights” list, compiled by a panel of seasoned boxing journalists and analysts, offers a blend of objective metrics—such as recent victories, rankings across major sanctioning bodies, and public perception—alongside subjective assessments of a boxer’s technical prowess, marketability, and potential future matchups. Below is a deep dive into each ranking, the context behind the selections, and the stories that have shaped the current heavyweight landscape.

1. Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury remains the undisputed figure at the summit of the heavyweight hierarchy. A former WBC and IBF champion, Fury’s recent bouts—most notably his win over Joseph Parker and the high‑profile draw with Deontay Wilder—cemented his status as the division’s flagship fighter. The Sporting News highlights Fury’s combination of size, speed, and ring intelligence, as well as his ability to generate buzz both inside and outside the cage. Fury’s comeback from a personal hiatus to reclaim world titles has resonated with fans and analysts alike, and the panel notes that his popularity ensures continued relevance regardless of his next opponent.

2. Oleksandr Usyk

The Ukrainian champion has redefined what a cruiserweight can bring to the heavyweight ring. After capturing the WBO and IBF cruiserweight titles, Usyk moved up to challenge for the WBC belt against Fury in 2022, losing by unanimous decision. The Sporting News ranks him second, citing his impeccable boxing technique, footwork, and relentless pressure. Usyk’s ambition to become the first world‑title‑holding champion across multiple weight classes drives his appeal, and his recent win over Tony Bellew demonstrates his continued dominance.

3. Anthony Joshua

British great Anthony Joshua is third on the list, bolstered by his victories over Alexander Povetkin and the 2023 bout against Dillian Whyte. Joshua’s power, coupled with a solid defensive game, keeps him a top contender. The panel stresses that Joshua’s recent loss to Deontay Wilder has spurred a narrative of redemption. His ability to stage high‑profile fights on the biggest stages—such as the London arena—keeps him in the public eye.

4. Dillian Whyte

Dillian Whyte has made a case for a top‑12 berth thanks to his recent win over Tony Bellew. The British fighter is praised for his improved defense and finishing power. While Whyte has yet to secure a world title, the panel highlights his consistency in top‑level competition and his potential to become a mandatory challenger for the WBC and WBA titles. His upcoming bouts against Joshua or the top‑ranked contenders are seen as pivotal moments for his career.

5. Tony Bellew

Tony Bellew sits comfortably at number five, thanks to his title‑winning fight against Dillian Whyte in 2022. The former British heavyweight champion’s technical boxing, combined with his relentless pressure, earned him praise. Bellew’s willingness to take on top opponents and his solid work ethic keep him a valued fixture in the division.

6. Lennox Lewis (Retired)

In a nod to legacy, the Sporting News ranks the late Lennox Lewis in the sixth position. Lewis’s career achievements—three world titles across multiple sanctioning bodies, an Olympic gold medal, and a reputation for powerful punches—justify his inclusion. Although retired, Lewis remains a touchstone for new generation heavyweights.

7. Mike Tyson (Retired)

The late Mike Tyson’s presence at number seven is a testament to his historical impact. Tyson’s ferocious early‑career dominance, combined with his cultural influence, keep him at the forefront of heavyweight discussions. The panel emphasizes his lasting legacy in the sport.

8. Randy Savage (Retired)

Randy Savage’s inclusion at eighth underscores the Sporting News’ broader view of the heavyweight division’s cultural footprint. Although primarily known for his WWE career, Savage’s occasional boxing exhibitions and his flamboyant persona contributed to his crossover appeal.

9. Manny Pacquiao (Retired)

At number nine, Manny Pacquiao—despite primarily fighting in the lower weight classes—is recognized for his one‑time heavyweight bout against Chris “The Giant” Lloyd. Pacquiao’s legacy as a nine‑division champion and his global fanbase justify his ranking, illustrating the influence a boxer can have even outside his optimal weight class.

10. Floyd Mayweather Jr. (Retired)

Mayweather’s place at tenth is largely symbolic. Though a retired boxer, Mayweather’s undefeated record, business acumen, and high‑profile exhibition fights (including one against a heavyweight) kept him in the headlines. The Sporting News highlights how Mayweather’s presence still reverberates through the boxing community.

11. Manny Pacquiao (Retired)

In a repeat placement, Manny Pacquiao’s impact is recognized again in the next slot. The repeated inclusion emphasizes his broader significance beyond pure performance metrics.

12. The Heavyweight Division at Large

The Sporting News rounds out the list with a recognition of the depth and unpredictability of the heavyweight division. Emerging talents—such as Robert Helenius, Tomás Álvarez, and Alexander Povetkin—are highlighted for their potential to rise through the ranks, bringing fresh competition to the top tier.

Methodology and Sources

The Sporting News’ panel evaluated fighters based on:

• Recent Fight Outcomes: Wins, losses, draws, and the quality of opposition.
• Title Status: Current and former world champions across all major sanctioning bodies (WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO).
• Physical and Technical Attributes: Size, speed, defense, and power.
• Marketability and Fan Appeal: Ability to draw crowds and generate media attention.
• Historical Significance: Legacy and influence on the sport.

Each ranking was corroborated with data from reputable databases such as BoxRec, The Ring magazine, and the sanctioning bodies’ official rankings. The panel also fact‑checked the latest press releases and fight announcements to ensure the list reflects the current state of the division.

The Road Ahead

The heavyweights of 2024 are poised for a series of blockbuster matchups. Potential headline‑grabbing fights include:

• Fury vs. Usyk (rematch potential)
• Joshua vs. Whyte (a rematch could set up a title unification)
• Usyk vs. Whyte (as a path to unify the WBO and WBA titles)
• Bellew vs. Lewis (a veteran showdown)

The Sporting News will continue to monitor developments, adjusting the rankings as the division evolves. Fans, analysts, and promoters can expect the heavyweight conversation to remain as electrifying as ever, with the fighters at the top of the list working to cement or surpass their positions in the next few years.