Boxing Recap: May 26 – June 1, 2025

Mike McCallum Passes Away at 68

Boxing legend Mike “The Bodysnatcher” McCallum died suddenly in Las Vegas at age 68. The Jamaican icon, known for his devastating body shots and technical prowess, held world titles in three weight divisions and retired with a record of 49-5-1. His unexpected death prompted tributes from across the boxing world, with Jamaica’s Sports Minister Olivia Grange calling him “a national treasure.”

Caleb Plant Upset by Armando Resendiz

In a surprising turn, former super middleweight champion Caleb Plant suffered a split-decision loss to Armando Resendiz on May 31 in Las Vegas. Plant’s trainer, Stephen Edwards, cited the pro-Resendiz crowd as a factor in the loss. Despite the setback, Plant expressed interest in a bout with Jermall Charlo.

Delicious Orie Announces Retirement

British boxer Delicious Orie, 27, announced his retirement from boxing, citing a loss of passion for the sport. Orie, a gold medalist at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2023 European Games, plans to pursue a corporate career aligned with his academic background.

Avril Mathie Retires from Boxing

Australian boxer Avril Mathie concluded her 13-year career, finishing with a record of 8 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. In an emotional farewell, she expressed sentiments of moving on from being on the sidelines.

MMA Recap: May 26 – June 1, 2025

Maycee Barber’s Medical Emergency Cancels UFC Vegas 107 Main Event

The main event between Maycee Barber and Erin Blanchfield at UFC Vegas 107 was abruptly canceled after Barber suffered a seizure moments before the fight. Barber was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital, and the cause of the medical emergency remains unconfirmed.

B.J. Penn’s Legal Troubles Elicit Concern

Former UFC champion B.J. Penn was arrested twice in one week, and his mother filed a restraining order against him due to erratic behavior. Fans and the MMA community expressed deep concern, with many suspecting CTE-related mental health issues.

Upcoming Fights: June 2 – June 8, 2025

UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2

On June 7, UFC 316 will feature a bantamweight title rematch between champion Merab Dvalishvili and former champion Sean O’Malley at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. O’Malley has focused on improving his grappling in preparation for the bout.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Edwin De Los Santos

Also on June 7, Keyshawn Davis will defend his WBO lightweight title against Edwin De Los Santos in Norfolk, Virginia. Davis aims to solidify his status in the lightweight division.

Junto Nakatani vs. Ryosuke Nishida

On June 8, Junto Nakatani and Ryosuke Nishida will clash in a unification bout for the WBC and IBF bantamweight titles at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Final Thoughts

The past week in combat sports was marked by unexpected retirements, medical emergencies, and legal troubles, while the upcoming week promises high-stakes title fights and potential shifts in divisional hierarchies. Fans should stay tuned for what promises to be an eventful period in both boxing and MMA.

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