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July is shaping up to be a thrilling month for boxing fans worldwide, marking the return of the 46-year-old legend Manny Pacquiao alongside several high-stakes fights. Pacquiao, one of the greatest boxers of this generation, is making a comeback after nearly four years away from the ring. The month also features a highly anticipated trilogy showdown between junior welterweight champions Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano.
Among the top fights in July are the matchups between Jack Qatar and Harlem Eebenk, WBC Junior Welterweight title fight between Alberto Puero and Subrielle Mattias, uncontroversial women’s junior lightweight title bout with Alicia Baumgardner against Jennifer Miranda, and more. ESPN has ranked the best fights of the month and explains why they should not be missed.
Here are some highlights:
10. Claressa Shields (-2500) vs. Lani Daniels (+1100) – On July 26 in Detroit (DAZN)
Shields, the first undisputed champion across three weight classes, defends her women’s heavyweight title at home against the experienced former IBF champion Daniels. Despite Shields being a strong favorite, Daniels’ recent winning streak makes this a compelling battle.
9. Bruce Carrington (-5000) vs. Mateus Heita (+1600) – July 26 in New York (ESPN/ESPN+)
Carrington fights for the vacant WBC Provisional Featherweight Title, seeking to continue his climb after personal tragedy. With the division shifting, this bout plays a pivotal role in his career direction.
8. Xander Zayas vs. Jorge Garcia – July 26 in New York (ESPN/ESPN+)
Zayas attempts to claim the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight Title in what promises to be a test against the tough and powerful Garcia.
7. Edgar Berlanga (-120) vs. Hamzah Sheeraz (-105) – July 12 in Queens, New York (DAZN)
Sheeraz aims to prove his merit for a high-profile superfight with Canelo Alvarez by facing Berlanga, who is looking to rebound from a recent loss.
6. Sebastian Fundora (+120) vs. Tim Tszyu (-150) 2 – July 19 in Las Vegas (Amazon Prime Video PPV)
A rematch where Tszyu seeks redemption after a split-decision loss last year, facing Fundora who continues to defend his titles with dominance.
5. Shakur Stevenson (-1200) vs. William Zepeda (+650) – July 12 in Queens, New York (DAZN)
Stevenson defends his WBC lightweight title against the undefeated Zepeda, a powerful pressure fighter who presents a contrasting style to Stevenson’s technical approach.
4. Jesse Rodriguez (-2500) vs. Phumelele Cafu (+1100) – July 19 in Frisco, Texas (DAZN)
Rodriguez, one of boxing’s brightest stars, looks to unify titles against the powerful Cafu in this thrilling junior bantamweight clash.
3. Manny Pacquiao (+260) vs. Mario Barrios (-350) – July 19 in Las Vegas (Amazon Prime Video PPV)
In a fight that captivates millions, Pacquiao returns to challenge Barrios for the WBC welterweight title, attempting to defy age and cement his legacy as one of boxing’s enduring legends.
2. Oleksandr Usyk (-400) vs. Daniel Dubois (+300) 2 – July 19 in London (DAZN PPV)
Usyk puts his heavyweight titles on the line in a rematch with explosive knockout artist Dubois, promising intense action in the ring.
1. Katie Taylor (+135) vs. Amanda Serrano (-170) 3 – July 11 in New York (Netflix)
The rivalry continues as Taylor and Serrano clash for the undisputed junior welterweight title. Their previous encounters have been closely contested and controversial, creating one of women’s boxing’s biggest rivalries, drawing record-breaking viewership and critical acclaim.
Fan Take: July’s lineup highlights the deep talent and compelling narratives that keep fans hooked, from Pacquiao’s historic return to the fierce Taylor-Serrano trilogy. These fights are not just contests; they’re moments that could reshape divisions and inspire the next generation, keeping the sport vibrant and thrilling.
