Early 2026: Boxing Results and Emerging Storylines

Early 2026: Boxing Results and Emerging Storylines

Smith Shocks Matias

In one of the most surprising outcomes of early 2026, Dalton Smith pulled off a major upset by stopping Subriel Matias via a fifth round TKO to win the WBC Super Lightweight world title. The fight, held in Brooklyn, ended with Smith handing the Puerto Rican power puncher his first defeat at the elite level; a result that immediately reshapes the 140 pound landscape and adds a new name to Britain’s world champion list.

Smith’s rise from prospect to world champion has been rapid, and this result puts him squarely in the conversation for big unification bouts later in the year. Matias, known for devastating knockout power, will take some time to reassess his options.

Heavyweight Buzz — Kabayel Retains Interim Title in Controversial Finish

Agit Kabayel defended his WBC interim heavyweight title with a third-round TKO over Damian Knyba in Oberhausen, Germany. The stoppage raised questions among fans and boxing analysts, adding intrigue to Kabayel’s status as a top contender. Referee Mark Lyson receives very low grades for his last two Agit Kabayel fights which he oversaw.

Kabayel’s path could intersect with some of the division’s biggest names if he strings together another successful defense or two; especially with emerging options like Moses Itauma and established forces such as Oleksandr Usyk still active in the deep heavyweight class.

Upcoming Fights

Jan. 16–17, 2026: A series of DAZN cards featuring multiple matchups such as Nikita Tszyu vs. Michael Zerafa and Alexis Rocha vs. Raul Curiel II.

Undefeated Moses Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) has been officially announced to fight Jermaine Franklin on January 24, 2026, in Manchester. Itauma’s rapid ascent, including a first-round KO of former title challenger Dillian Whyte, has attracted attention from fans and pundits as a potential future heavyweight contender.

Matchroom Boxing has publicly confirmed shows for early 2026, including Raymond Muratalla defending his IBF lightweight crown against amateur standout Andy Cruz on Jan. 24.

Jan. 31, 2026: Xander Zayas (22-0) vs. Abass Baraou (17-1) plus notable undercard fights in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Mario Barrios will defend the WBC welterweight title against Ryan Garcia on Feb. 21, 2026 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. DAZN PPV will broadcast the event. Garcia, coming off a loss and suspension, is being rewarded with a title shot. This bout could plausibly be the defining moment of Garcia’s career trajectory post-suspension. Should Garcia secure the title, his next defense, potentially against top contenders like Conor Benn, would generate narrative and commercial interest, even amid divided fan opinion.

Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs) captured the belt by defeating Yordenis Ugas and has since recorded two controversial draws against Abel Ramos and Manny Pacquiao. Garcia (24-2, 20 KOs) is returning from a one-year suspension, seeking his first world title.

There seems to be a broadening in global boxing through January before a heavier spring schedule hits in February and March.

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