Boxing’s future is in good hands, as the sport has a plethora of young rising stars. Now, the term “prospect” is somewhat ambiguous, and most people associate it with a young (professional) boxer who shows a lot of promise. These prospects are not belt holders, at least not in terms of the four major titles, for this list. Keep an eye on these studs in boxing news and boxing odds.
Let’s look at the most recent news, statistics, injury reports, and boxing odds. We have a lot of predictions for you to think about.
Jr. Vergil Ortiz (18-0-0, 18 KOs)
Vergil Ortiz Jr. has been on lists like this for what seems like an eternity. He was named Prospect of the Year by The Ring magazine three years ago. With a knockout-to-win ratio of 100 percent, it’s easy to see why champions aren’t lining up to face him. He’s scheduled to face David Avanesyan as a heavy favorite later this summer in what could be his ticket to a title shot.
Ennis, Jaron (29-0-0, 27 KOs)
It’s incredible to think that Jaron Ennis has more professional knockouts (27) than his age (24). Ennis, arguably the hardest puncher at welterweight, is tied for the most promising prospect at 147 pounds with Ortiz Jr. But, unlike Ortiz Jr., he could be fighting for the title as soon as his next fight.
Benn, Conor (21-0-0, 14 KOs)
And rounding out the welterweights is this British fighter who has held his WBA Continental title for over four years. He has victories over notable boxers such as Chris Algieri and Adrian Granados. Benn is scheduled to box again in September, and unless it’s for a future title shot, he should be a big favorite at the sportsbook.
Anderson, Jared (11-0-0, 11 KOs)
We need all of the heavyweight prospects, and Jared Anderson, 22, could be the best. The Junior NABF champion and two-time US national champion has defeated all 11 of his opponents. He’s competed in some big events and shined, so don’t expect him to be yelling for a belt anytime soon.
Buatsi, Joshua (16-0-0, 13 KOs)
Joshua Buatsi is another promising light heavyweight prospect from the United Kingdom. The two-time English national champion also won bronze at the 2016 Summer Olympics and recently defeated former title rival Craig Richards. Expect big things from Buatsi in the near future under the tutelage of Virgil Hunter, Andre Ward’s former trainer.
Berlanga, Edgar (20-0-0, 16 KOs)
Edgar Berlanga once had a knockout-to-win ratio of 100 percent. But, as the competition has risen, he has won by decision. He’s still one of the sport’s best unbeaten prospects. Berlanga was impressive against two-time title challenger Roamer Alexis Angulo, despite his Mike Tyson-like antics. A shot at a super middleweight title is on the horizon.
Dubois, Caroline (2-0-0, 1 KO)
Caroline Dubois, the sister of WBA (regular) heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois, could be the next big thing in British women’s boxing. She has only recently begun her professional career, but she has already made an impression with a first-round stoppage win in her second fight. Dubois won the gold medal in the 2018 Youth Olympics with a 37-3 amateur record.
Davis, Keyshawn (5-0-0, 4 KOs)
It won’t be long before betting on Keyshawn Davis online becomes one of the most enjoyable pastimes. The American lightweight won a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but his crowd-pleasing style made him a fan favorite. In the shark tank of a division, he still has a ways to go, but give him a year or two and he’ll be on everyone’s radar.
