In this exclusive article, we take a look back at the unforgettable year of 2022 in the world of boxing. It was a rollercoaster year for fans around the globe, filled with thrilling fights and unexpected twists. At the center of it all was Eddie Hearn, the mastermind behind Matchroom Boxing, who orchestrated events across five continents.
Amir Khan vs. Kell Brook: A Long-awaited Showdown
One of the most anticipated fights of the year was the long-awaited clash between Amir Khan and Kell Brook. After years of trash talk and failed negotiations, the two British fighters finally settled their differences in the ring. Although some critics felt it was too late, it was still a significant all-British fight.
Eddie Hearn, who promoted both men at different stages of their careers, shared his thoughts on the fight: "I was disappointed that we never got a chance to do it when they were in their heyday, but it was still a big all-British fight. It did happen too late, and Amir was a shade of the fighter that he once was, but at least we got to see it and it was a good way to kickstart a year of boxing globally."
Josh Taylor vs. Jack Catterall: A Controversial Decision
Josh Taylor, the undisputed 140lb champion, faced off against Jack Catterall in what was expected to be a homecoming party in Scotland. However, the fight ended in controversy as Taylor was handed a points victory despite many believing Catterall had won the fight.
Eddie Hearn expressed his disappointment with the decision: "It was a weird fight, actually. Catterall won the first six rounds and coasted, then lost some rounds in the end. But he did definitely win the fight. It left a bit of a bad taste in the mouth of fight fans because they just felt that the wrong man won that fight."
Leigh Wood vs. Michael Conlan: A Cinderella Story
Leigh Wood's journey to the top was nothing short of remarkable. He became an unlikely titleholder during the pandemic and faced fiery Irishman Michael Conlan in his hometown. In a sensational fight, Wood recovered from being dropped in the first round to deliver a spectacular late knockout and retain his title.
Eddie Hearn reflected on the magical night: "It was just the most magical occasion, one of the most magical atmospheres, and one of the best fights I've ever seen live, and one of the most dramatic endings. Leigh Wood looked like he was gone in the first round. He found a way back, then even late in the fight didn't look like he was going to turn it around."
Tyson Fury vs. Dillian Whyte: A Disappointing Challenge
Dillian Whyte, the mandatory challenger, finally got his long-awaited world title shot against Tyson Fury. However, the fight fell short of expectations as Whyte put in a poor performance, and Fury cruised to victory. Hearn believed that Whyte's lack of involvement was a mistake: "I've never had a contract with Dillian White, and he's just chosen to work with us over the years. I felt like it was a mistake to not have us more involved."
Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano: A Historic Battle
Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, two generational fighters, met in a historic showdown for all the marbles at Madison Square Garden. The fight lived up to the hype, with Taylor emerging victorious in what was dubbed the greatest ever women's fight. Eddie Hearn described it as a monumental night: "That was the night that women's boxing got what it deserved."
Canelo vs. Dmitry Bivol: Unleashing the Underdog
Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, already the biggest superstar in boxing, took on light-heavyweight phenom Dmitry Bivol in a risky move. Bivol proved his worth by outclassing Canelo, showcasing his greatness. Hearn praised both fighters: "Canelo also proved how great he was, but Dmitry Bivol was too much for him that night."
Oleksandr Usyk vs. Anthony Joshua 2: A Tale of Redemption
Anthony Joshua sought redemption in his rematch against Oleksandr Usyk. He showed significant improvement under new trainer Robert Garcia and dominated the fight through nine rounds. However, Usyk staged a remarkable comeback and retained his unified heavyweight title.
Eddie Hearn commended Joshua's performance: "I thought he boxed very well in that fight, and he lost to a true great. He did 24 rounds with the pound-for-pound No.1, and the second fight he could have won."
Canelo vs. Gennadiy Golovkin 3: Closing the Trilogy
The long-awaited Canelo vs. Golovkin trilogy finally took place, years after fans had been clamoring for it. While it wasn't as spectacular as the first two fights, it marked the closure of an iconic rivalry. Canelo emerged victorious, solidifying his status as the undisputed super-middleweight champion.
Eddie Hearn reflected on the significance of the fight: "That was pretty special, to sell out T-Mobile Arena in Vegas and have the arrivals at the MGM Grand. It was a special event for us."
Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn: A Disappointing Postponement
The highly anticipated battle between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn was marred by controversy. Just days before the fight, the British Boxing Board of Control announced they would not sanction it due to a failed drug test from Benn. Despite a dramatic turn of events, Hearn remained optimistic about the fight's future: "It will always remain big until they settle the score, and they will."
Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall: The Best vs. the Best
Claressa Shields, self-proclaimed 'GWOAT' (Greatest Woman of All Time), faced off against Savannah Marshall in a fierce battle for the undisputed 160lb title. Shields proved her dominance, delivering a masterful performance to secure the victory.
Eddie Hearn acknowledged Shields' greatness: "An example of the best fighting the best, delivering for the fans. I underestimated Shields. But then I started talking to people who know boxing, and they said, 'no way that Marshall beats Shields.' And they were right. Shields was levels above."
Goals for 2023: Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury
Looking ahead, Eddie Hearn revealed his goals for 2023. At the top of his wishlist is the long-awaited clash between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. Hearn expressed his excitement about the potential fight: "It's maybe more important [than the belts for me], but he also wants to become a three-time world heavyweight champion."
In addition to Joshua vs. Fury, Hearn listed numerous other fights he hopes to make in the coming year. From rematches to title unifications, the future of boxing looks promising.
As we reflect on the incredible year of 2022 in boxing, it's clear that Eddie Hearn played a significant role in shaping the landscape of the sport. With his determination and vision, we can expect more exhilarating fights and unforgettable moments in the years to come.
