As 2024 draws to a close, boxing fans are reflecting on the fighters who made the biggest impact and earned their spots among the top pound for pound boxers 2024. This year brought us stunning performances, shocking upsets, and thrilling rivalries that cemented legacies and reshaped the sport. Here’s our definitive list of the year’s best fighters and why they deserve to be recognised.
1. Oleksandr Usyk
Usyk’s two victories over Tyson Fury in 2024 were monumental, solidifying his status as the top pound for pound fighter of the year. The first fight saw Usyk dismantle Fury’s defence with his superior footwork and timing, while the rematch confirmed his dominance with another convincing win. Usyk’s ability to conquer both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions places him in a league of his own.
2. Naoya Inoue
The Monster continued his reign of terror in 2024, proving once again why he’s one of the most feared fighters in the sport. Inoue’s devastating power, blinding speed, and clinical precision saw him unify the bantamweight division with ease. His ability to overwhelm elite opponents leaves no doubt that he’s one of the top pound for pound boxers 2024.
3. Terence Crawford
Crawford remained untouchable in 2024, defending his undisputed welterweight titles with dominant performances. His ability to switch stances and control fights from start to finish demonstrates his exceptional versatility. Crawford’s fights this year were masterclasses in ring generalship, cementing his place as one of boxing’s finest.
4. Canelo Alvarez
Canelo silenced his critics in 2024 with a decisive win to reclaim a super-middleweight title. Despite questions about his age and whether his best years are behind him, Alvarez’s counterpunching, defensive mastery, and adaptability kept him among the sport’s elite. His ability to excel across multiple weight classes ensures his place among the top pound for pound boxers 2024.
5. Dmitry Bivol
Bivol delivered another flawless year in 2024, using his pinpoint accuracy and strategic approach to outclass his opponents. His dominance in the light heavyweight division remains unmatched, and while fans continue to hope for a rematch with Canelo, Bivol’s consistency and brilliance stand on their own.
6. Shakur Stevenson
Stevenson’s performances in 2024 solidified his position as one of boxing’s rising stars. His ability to neutralise opponents and dictate the pace of fights is a testament to his technical brilliance. Stevenson’s wins in the lightweight division were masterclasses in defensive skills and positioning, making him one of the sport’s most exciting talents.
7. Gervonta Davis
Davis delivered another electrifying year in 2024, securing multiple knockout victories that showcased his explosive power. Tank’s ability to combine devastating finishing ability with high-level boxing IQ has earned him a loyal fan base and a rightful place on this list.
8. Devin Haney
Haney’s composure and tactical brilliance in the lightweight division were highlights of 2024. His precise jab, slick defence, and ability to outthink his opponents underlined his place among the year’s elite fighters. Haney’s ability to adapt mid-fight has made him one of the most consistent boxers in the sport today.
9. Tyson Fury
Despite suffering two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, Fury’s earlier victories in 2024 and his undeniable skill as a heavyweight ensure he remains in the pound-for-pound discussion. His size, agility, and charisma make him a unique talent in boxing, and fans are eagerly anticipating his response to this challenging year.
10. Jermell Charlo
Charlo’s performances this year solidified his reputation as one of boxing’s most accomplished fighters. His ability to fight at the highest level, combined with his adaptability and resilience, earns him a well-deserved place on the list of the top pound for pound boxers 2024.
Reflections on Boxing in 2024
This year has been unforgettable, with fighters like Usyk and Inoue delivering career-defining performances and others like Davis and Haney continuing to cement their legacies. The top pound for pound boxers 2024 represent the best of the sport, showcasing why boxing remains one of the most thrilling and unpredictable competitions in the world.
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