As 2025 draws to a close, it’s time to take stock and look back at the boxing events that have unfolded over the past twelve months. Who was the Fighter of the Year? Which bout delivered the greatest spectacle? Who pulled off the most shocking upset? This and much more in the Boxe Punch Awards — here are our picks!
Round of the Year: Seiya Tsutsumi vs Daigo Higa 2 (Round 9)
Within the all-out war between these two indestructible Japanese warriors, the ninth round stands as the absolute peak of the spectacle. A vicious left hook from Higa sent Tsutsumi crashing hard to the canvas in the middle of a breathtaking exchange, but Seiya got back to his feet, stoically withstood his opponent’s attempts to finish him, and then unleashed a terrifying right hand of his own, scoring a heavy knockdown in return. Three heart-stopping minutes!
Honorable mentions: Cristobal Lorente vs Nathaniel Collins (Round 6) and Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn I (Round 12).
Fighter of the Year: Terence Crawford
Some may object to awarding the prize to a fighter who stepped into the ring only once throughout 2025, but in our view the achievement accomplished by the American superstar was so historically significant that it eclipses the seasons of more active champions. Jumping up two weight classes at the age of 38 and convincingly defeating Canelo, the unified super middleweight champion, Bud fully earned this recognition.
Honorable mentions: Jesse Rodriguez and Naoya Inoue.
Knockout of the Year: Fabio Wardley vs Justis Huni
2025 delivered several spectacular knockouts, but Wardley’s KO of Huni stands out not only for its technical brilliance, but also for the sheer drama of the moment. Wardley was clearly behind on the scorecards, taking heavy punishment and seemingly heading toward a bitter defeat when he pulled a rabbit out of the hat. A devastating right hand without which he would not be a world champion today.
Honorable mentions: Oleksandr Usyk vs Daniel Dubois and Brian Norman Jr vs Jin Sasaki.
Upset of the Year: Rolando Romero vs Ryan Garcia
It’s not so much Romero’s victory itself that earns this selection, but rather the manner in which it came about. That “Rolly” carries serious pop in his punches was well known, and the possibility of him landing a decisive shot could not be ruled out. But almost no one expected Garcia to be beaten so comprehensively in terms of timing, being completely neutralized and virtually never able to trigger his trademark left hook.
Honorable mentions: Callum Simpson vs Troy Williamson and Chris Kongo vs Elliot Eboigbe.
Prospect of the Year: Brandon Mejia Mosqueda
At just 21 years old, the Mexican fighter already boxes with the craft and tactical intelligence of a seasoned ring veteran. The winner of the featherweight Boxing Grand Prix, Mosqueda showcased lightning-fast hands, lethal power, and a wide array of offensive solutions throughout the tournament. In the final against Italy’s Muhamet Qamili, he also demonstrated the ability to use clever obstruction at key moments and to counterpunch effectively, fighting on the back foot. Extremely young, yet already remarkably complete, with a very bright future ahead.
Honorable mentions: Carlos Utria and Giorgio Visioli.
Fight of the Year: Kenshiro Teraji vs Seigo Yuri Akui
Their names may not be familiar to casual fans, but we can assure you that Teraji and Akui produced a truly unforgettable fight in March. Not only did they trade an astonishing volume of punches in a steadily intensifying battle, but they also adjusted their game plans multiple times, making the bout fascinating even for those who appreciate its tactical nuances. The dramatic ending, which overturned the outcome with just a minute and a half remaining, was the icing on the cake.
Honorable mentions: Fabio Wardley vs Joseph Parker and Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez.