It’s important to keep in mind that lists are a matter of personal opinion. However, when it comes to the BSO Pound for Pound list, there are specific guidelines that are followed to create the list. The criteria, in order of importance, includes recent activity, championship fights (with a focus on unifications and undisputed titles), overall career achievements, and hypothetical matchups between fighters if they were in the same weight class.
1- Oleksandr Usyk
The undefeated Usky is still the cruiserweight lineal championship. He followed in the footsteps of Evander Holyfield by moving up to heavyweight, despite lacking size advantages, and emerged victorious in two bouts against Anthony Joshua, earning three belts. However, due to Tyson Fury’s questionable behavior, an undisputed heavyweight title shot is currently unlikely. It’s important to note that Usyk made significant concessions to arrange the fight and Fury ultimately duked him.
2- Naoya Inoue
Naoya Inoue, known as “The Monster,” is a boxing champion who has won titles in three different weight divisions. In just his sixth fight, he became a world champion and has since successfully defended his various belts 19 times. While Nonito Donaire gave Inoue a run for his money in their first fight, Inoue dominated their rematch. In 2022, Inoue made history by becoming the first undisputed bantamweight 118-pound champion since 1972. However, some critics argue that Inoue has yet to face a black fighter. He will soon have an opportunity to do just that when he takes on undefeated Stephen Fulton in his bid to become a four-division champion. If Inoue can defeat Fulton, many believe he will solidify his position as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world.
3- Dmitry Bivol
To be the man you have to beat the man.
It was an impressive victory for Bivol in the light heavyweight bout against Canelo Alvarez, who was considered the reigning pound-for-pound king. Although the scorecards were close, it was evident that Bivol effortlessly dominated the fight with his masterful boxing skills. He later showcased his talent once again by defeating Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, who moved up from 168 pounds to 175 pounds. Fans are eager to witness an undisputed fight between Bivol and Artur Beterbiev, but negotiations have yet to yield any promising results.
4- Canelo Alvarez
Is it possible to be an underappreciated cash cow of boxing?
Canelo’s upcoming match against John Ryder will mark his 7th fight in just 29 months, a rarity in the world of boxing. For comparison, Terence Crawford has only fought three times in that same time frame. Despite this, Canelo has maintained his title as the undisputed champion at Super middleweight by defeating three opponents with an impressive combined record of 78-0. Clearly, the King isn’t dead yet.
5- Shakur Stevenson
At just 25 years old, Steveson has already achieved the impressive feat of becoming a two-time world champion. Although he began his career with a lot of soft touches, he has since stepped up his game and faced tougher competition. His last five opponents boast a combined record of 107-4, and he has secured noteworthy victories against Oscar Valdez and Jamel Herring. What sets Steveson apart is not just his wins, but how effortlessly he achieves them. If he can secure a title at 135 pounds, he has the potential to become the future #1 pound-for-pound king, making waves in the boxing world.
6- Artur Beterbiev
When facing Artur Beterbiev in the ring, it’s best to come prepared with a hard hat. As the sole legitimate world champion with a knockout rate of 100%, Beterbiev has dominated the light heavyweight division for six years, leaving his opponents in shambles. The only thing left to solidify his reign is a match against Bivol, determining the true heavyweight king.
7- Errol Spence Jr.
Erroll Spence Jr. is a talented fighter, but unfortunately, his involvement in car accidents has affected his ranking. Nonetheless, he consistently performs exceptionally well against top-level opponents. Fans eagerly anticipate a matchup between Spence Jr. and Bud Crawford to determine the ultimate welterweight champion, but unfortunately, the fight has yet to happen.
8- Devin Haney
Devin Haney stands out from other boxers who engage in social media battles. Instead, he focuses on facing the toughest opponents and has successfully conquered hostile territories twice against George Kambosos. If Haney wins against Lomanchenko in their upcoming fight, his ranking in the sport will surely rise.
9- Terence “Bud” Crawford
In my opinion, if all fighters were in the same weight class as a prime Bud Crawford, he would come out victorious. However, the issue lies in the fact that Crawford hasn’t faced many formidable opponents, leaving us with many uncertainties. While Crawford deserves recognition for his undisputed championship win in the junior welterweight division back in 2017, it’s important to consider his opponents in his more recent fights. What has been his best win since? Jeff Horn? A washed and weight drained Kel Brook? An overrated Amir Khan? A semi-retired Shawn Porter who Errol Spence already beat? Egidijus Kavaliauskas who put him on his ass? Jose Benavidez Jr who just got shot in the leg? I believe you understand my point. It is not possible to become the best based only on hypothetical situations. My suggestion is to arrange the Spence fight and prove to everyone that you are truly the person you claim to be.
10- Jermell Charlo
Jermell Charlo is known for his fearlessness in the ring, unlike his brother Jermall. He doesn’t shy away from a rematch if he loses or if a decision is controversial. In fact, he usually knocks out his opponent to eliminate any doubts. Although he has been nursing a hand injury, a highly anticipated bout with Tim Tszyu is currently being arranged.