The best pound-for-pound boxers of the 21st century

Ranking the best 21st century fighters in the world of boxing is subjective, and a very complicated task. Multiple factors come into account, comparing wins and losses, World Championships, longevity, or general appeal. Here is a list of some of the world's most iconic boxing figures of the century.

Oleksandr Usyk, one of the biggest names in boxing, has carved out a great legacy in the ring, with a 22-0 (14 K.O). The Ukrainian boxer has enjoyed some big victories, much like his 12-round battle with Tyson Fury earlier in 2024. Usyk is an all-around great fighter.

Nicknamed the 'Japanese Monster, ' Naoya Inoue has climbed up the ranks in the boxing world to earn a spot among the best. According to Mundo Deportivo, he has become the only second male boxer (following Terence Crawford) to become the undisputed champion in two different weight categories. His 26-0-0 record (26 K.O.) highlights his great abilities.

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Saul Alvarez, also known as 'Canelo' Alvarez, is one of Mexico's most recognized fighters. His impressive 60-2-2 record proves he is one of the most active and resilient fighters of the 21st century. After his unanimous decision win over Edgar Berlanga, the Mexican proved he still has the magic and deserves to be up there with the best in the game.

One of the greatest is the Gypsy King, the great Tyson Fury, who has been involved in the world of boxing since he was 9 years old. Fury began boxing seriously at the age of 10, training with his father John on the regular. Fast forward to today, Fury is regarded as one of the most lethal heavyweight champions currently fighting. His impressive 34-0-1 record shows he means business once he steps into the ring.

Despite being born in 1976, Wladimir Klitschko deserves to be on this list as he has been a very active fighter during the 21st century. His fighting record speaks for itself: 64-0-5, including 54 K.O. The veteran fighter has disputed the world titles 29 times, making him one of the greats in the sport.

The American boxer is regarded as one of America's brightest talents in the 21st century. Much like Klitschko, he was born in 1971 but remained active in the ring throughout his later years. Mosley's record is no joke, 61-10, with 41 K.O. Nevertheless, the American fighter retired in 2017. Now his son seeks to step into his shoes and continue the legacy.

Roman Alberto Gonzalez is a Nicaraguan fighter also known as 'Chocolatito' who has left his mark on the sport. He made his professional debut in 2005 and has been fighting since then. His impressive 51-0-4 record with 41 K.O. displays his great form and how lethal he can be during his combats. He is undoubtedly one of the best super fly fighters we have seen in the 21st century.

Juan Manual Marquez, also named 'Dinamita', is another renowned Mexican fighter who carved a name for himself in the history of the sport. With an impressive 56-1-7 (40 KO's) record, he retired in 2014 with honors. He started his career in 1993 but remained active throughout the 21st century.

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Roy Jones Jr is one of America's most known multi-faceted fighters. The former fighter, basketballer, actor, and rapper made an extensive career out of boxing. Although he began boxing in 1989, a large portion of his boxing career took place in the 21st century, retiring in 2023. His 66-0-10 (47 K.O.) highlights his ferocity in the ring.

Floyd Mayweather Jr is arguably one of the best fighters in the history of the sport. Nicknamed 'Money', he has never lost a fight in the ring, and to this day he refuses to hang up his boots. His 50-0-0 record proves he is simply one of the best. According to Record, he believes he is the 'face of boxing'.

Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao, also known as Manny Pacquiao, is another great boxing champion of our time, who retired in 2021 with an impressive 62-2-8 record with 39 K.O. fights. Nevertheless, 'Pacman' has challenged 'Money' Mayweather to a rematch fight in 2024, 10 years after their first fight.

The fearless Terence Crawford, aka 'Bud', is arguably one of the best fighters of the 21st century. The American fighter currently holds a 40-0-0 (31 K.O.) record and seems unstoppable in his Welterweight division. According to ESPN, he is a former lightweight champion, a former junior welterweight undisputed champion, and the current unified welterweight champion. Will he pass the 'Money' Mayweather record? Let us know what you think!

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