Upcoming Boxing Matches: What to Watch This Weekend
May 9, 2025 — As fight fans eagerly anticipate thrilling boxing action, several exciting matchups are set to unfold this weekend across multiple time zones, from California to Japan. After recent high-stakes bouts, the spotlight now turns to these notable fighters. Here’s a look at the top cards scheduled for this weekend.
1. Anthony Cacace vs. Leigh Wood – Junior Lightweight Showdown
When: Saturday at 2 p.m. ET (DAZN)
In a significant junior lightweight bout, Anthony Cacace (23-1, 8 KOs) faces Leigh Wood (28-3, 17 KOs) in Nottingham. Despite Wood’s desires for a world title fight, this match still carries weight in the division. Cacace sacrifices his IBF title to take part in this clash, which offers both fighters a chance to strengthen their respective standings.
Cacace’s recent victory over Joe Cordina and active fight schedule gives him confidence, while Wood’s long layoff raises questions about his performance. Both boxers are aiming to position themselves for future title opportunities, making this encounter crucial.
2. Emanuel Navarrete vs. Charly Suarez – WBO Junior Lightweight Title
When: Saturday at 10 p.m. ET (ESPN/ESPN+)
After his stunning performance against Oscar Valdez, Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) will defend his WBO title against Charly Suarez (18-0, 10 KOs) in San Diego. Navarrete’s explosive knockout ability makes him a fighter to watch, and another strong showing may propel him into lucrative matchups in the lightweight division.
This title defense is critical for Navarrete as he seeks to solidify his dominance within the junior lightweight category.
3. Erickson Lubin vs. Ardreal Holmes Jr. – Junior Middleweight Title Eliminator
When: Saturday at 6 p.m. ET (PROBOX TV)
Erickson Lubin (26-2, 18 KOs) and Ardreal Holmes Jr. (17-0, 6 KOs) are set to compete in an IBF eliminator in Kissimmee, Florida. Lubin seeks to return to the ring after a long hiatus due to injuries, while Holmes is coming in with recent momentum after three victories in 2024.
This matchup is crucial for both fighters as they strive for a shot at the IBF champion Bakhram Murtazaliev.
4. Fernando Martinez vs. Kazuto Ioka – A Highly Anticipated Rematch
When: Sunday
In a highly anticipated rematch, Fernando Martinez (17-0, 9 KOs) will face Kazuto Ioka (31-3-1, 16 KOs) for the junior bantamweight title in Tokyo. After winning their first encounter, Martinez aims to prove his dominance once more. Ioka, looking to reclaim his title, faces the challenge of overcoming the effects of their previous strenuous fight.
5. Souleymane Cissokho vs. Egidijus Kavaliauskas – WBC Welterweight Title Eliminator
When: Saturday
In a significant matchup hosted in Equatorial Guinea, Souleymane Cissokho (17-0, 9 KOs) will take on Egidijus Kavaliauskas (24-2-1, 19 KOs) in a WBC welterweight title eliminator. This fight marks a return to action for Cissokho after an 18-month absence, raising questions about his readiness against the experienced Kavaliauskas.
A victory for Cissokho could lead to a title shot later this year, making this bout pivotal in his career.
Conclusion
This weekend’s lineup boasts essential fights across various divisions, each carrying implications for title rankings and the careers of the involved athletes. Fans can expect riveting performances and notable developments in the boxing landscape.