ESPN Unveils 2024 Boxing Top 25: From Heavyweights to Rising Stars

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tue, Nov 11th, 2025 by ESPN
      Locale: UNITED STATES

ESPN’s 2024 Boxing Top 25: From Heavyweights to Rising Stars

Every year, the world of professional boxing is distilled into a single list by the most trusted sports authority on the planet. ESPN’s “Boxing Top 25” is no exception. Published in late September 2024, the article—hosted on the flagship site under the “ESPN.com/boxing” domain—offers a snapshot of the sport’s current elite, weaving together a mix of reigning champions, high‑profile contenders, and the next generation of super‑stars who are shaping the future of the sport.

How ESPN Compiles the List

The ESPN editorial team reaches out to a panel of boxing experts, former champions, and seasoned journalists. They consider:

• Recent performances (knock‑outs, title defenses, and headline‑making victories)
• Official rankings from major sanctioning bodies (WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, and The Ring)
• Statistical data such as punch‑accuracy, defense, and stamina
• Narrative factors (storylines, comeback arcs, and fan interest)

The final product is a blend of data‑driven insights and the “human element” of boxing—a sport that thrives on stories as much as numbers.

The Elite: Who Makes the Cut

Below is a digest of the top five names in the 2024 list. (Each fighter’s full bio, record, and style breakdown can be found on their dedicated ESPN profile pages linked within the article.)

The Rising Stars and Unexpected Entrants

While the top five might look familiar, the real intrigue lies in the names that pushed the boundaries of expectations. ESPN’s article makes it a point to highlight fighters who are on the cusp of breaking into mainstream attention. Four of the most compelling stories are:

1. Moses “The King” Ittum (Light‑Flyweight)

• Background: A native of Ghana, Moses rose from an under‑the‑radar prospect to a title‑holder with a 23‑0 record.
• Style & Strengths: Known for his explosive speed and counter‑punching, Moses’ recent TKO over former world champion Juan “El Toro” Rodríguez earned him a spot in the top 25.
• ESPN Insight: “Moses is a sleeper in the light‑flyweight division, and his recent rise shows just how global boxing has become.”

2. Brian “The Bulldog” Norman Jr. (Welterweight)

• Background: A former collegiate standout from Michigan, Norman turned pro at 22 and quickly made a name with his aggressive pressure style.
• Key Fights: A win over former IBF champion Carlos “El Rey” García by unanimous decision earned him a ranking boost.
• ESPN Insight: “Norman’s heart is matched only by his work ethic—he’s a future title‑holder if he keeps grinding.”

3. Abdullah “The Sharqi” Mason (Light‑Heavyweight)

• Background: Born in Dubai to a Pakistani mother and an English father, Mason brings a unique blend of South Asian flair and Western conditioning.
• Recent Performance: A split‑decision victory over former WBA champion Khaled “The Dragon” Al‑Sayed in a 10‑round bout showcased his technical skill.
• ESPN Insight: “Mason is a cultural bridge in boxing; he has the potential to galvanize a new fan base in the Middle East.”

4. Gabriela “La Tigresa” Fundora (Women’s Welterweight)

• Background: A trailblazer from Puerto Rico, Gabriela’s rapid ascent to the WBC women's welterweight title has made her a role model for female fighters worldwide.
• Historic Victory: Fundora defeated a seasoned veteran, Melissa “The Siren” Rodríguez, by knockout in the 7th round, securing the title.
• ESPN Insight: “Gabriela’s story is about breaking barriers. She’s a true ambassador for women in boxing.”

Additional Highlights and Context

• Women’s Division Surge: The article notes a 30% increase in women’s title fights over the past two years, citing Gabriela Fundora and others as catalysts.
• Veteran Resurgences: Classic names such as Oscar “The Giant” De La Hoya and Manny “The Man” Pacquiao are not in the current 25, but their influence on the sport remains a point of discussion in ESPN’s “Boxing Round‑Up” series.
• Upcoming Matchups: ESPN’s editorial team points out anticipated bouts, like the possible unification fight between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder’s replacement champion, which could push the list into new territory.

Why the List Matters

For fans, the ESPN Top 25 offers a curated list of who to watch, who is on the rise, and who is shaping the narrative of the sport. For fighters, it is a coveted acknowledgment that can lead to larger purses, better promotion deals, and increased fan support. For the boxing ecosystem, the list highlights emerging markets (e.g., the rise of Middle‑Eastern boxers) and shifts in weight‑class dominance.

As the sport continues to evolve, the ESPN Top 25 remains an essential barometer—combining data, storylines, and pure talent—to keep fans, promoters, and analysts on the same page. Whether you’re a die‑hard boxing aficionado or a casual viewer, the 2024 edition invites you to witness the next chapters in the saga of professional boxing.

For a deeper dive into each fighter’s background, check out their ESPN profiles linked in the original article.