Boxing's best of 2025 so far: Fighter, KO, prospect and more

ESPN boxing writers Andreas Hale and Nick Parkinson have released their midyear awards for 2025, recognizing the sport's top performers through six months of action.

The pair split their picks across several categories, including fighter of the year, knockout of the year, and best prospect. Hale and Parkinson evaluated boxers based on their activity, quality of opposition, and impact on the sport's landscape heading into the second half of the calendar.

Who leads the fighter of the year race

The awards come as boxing enters a critical summer stretch, with several world title fights scheduled that could reshape the pound-for-pound rankings. Prospect evaluations typically weigh heavily on early-career performances and developmental trajectories rather than established credentials.

Both writers provided their selections independently, with categories spanning offensive performance, defensive craft, and rising talent. The midyear checkpoint allows fans and pundits to assess which fighters have maximized their opportunities in the opening months before championship schedules intensify in autumn.

ESPN's full breakdown includes additional honors for best fight and breakout performer. The writers will revisit their choices in December when final year-end awards are tallied across the sport.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Midyear boxing awards: Best fighter, fight, KO, prospect and more