Combat sports delivered fireworks last week across boxing rings and UFC cages, blending dramatic knockouts, championship-worthy chokeouts, and controversial title bids. From Fabio Wardley’s rippling upset in the heavyweight division to Merab Dvalishvili’s submission artillery, fight fans witnessed both domination and drama. Here’s a detailed recap of the action from June 2–8, 2025, followed by a high-stakes preview of June 9–15.

Boxing Recap: June 2–8, 2025

Wardley Crushes Huni for WBA Interim Belt

In a massive heavyweight upset at Ipswich’s Portman Road, Fabio Wardley landed a savage knockout on Justis Huni in the 10th round to claim the WBA interim title. Despite being outboxed early, Wardley’s relentless power paid off late, reminding fans that heavyweight comebacks are never out of the question.

De La Hoya Courts Teofimo Lopez

Oscar De La Hoya has reportedly offered Teofimo Lopez a Golden Boy promotional deal after Lopez’s contentious “dicktator” apology to Turki Alalshikh. De La Hoya aims to transform Lopez into a PPV draw—a strategic effort to shape boxing’s future star.

Keyshawn Davis Struggles at Lightweight

Top Rank lightweight champion Keyshawn Davis faced criticism for choosing an easy opponent in Edwin De Los Santos. The matchup showcased Davis’s weight-struggles and underwhelming fan appeal—sparking speculation he’s ready to move up to 140 lbs.

UFC & MMA Recap: June 2–8, 2025

UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2

Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili retained his bantamweight title with a third-round submission against Sean O’Malley in Newark, marking his 13th consecutive win. Dvalishvili showcased a signature “Machine Choke,” a north-south choke refined under coach John Wood, and post-fight called it a result of hard jiu-jitsu work: “Hey, let’s call it ‘Machine Choke!’”.

O’Malley was gracious in defeat, calling Dvalishvili “a motherf*cker” and promising he’ll “come back stronger” for his family.

Kayla Harrison Captures Bantamweight Gold

In the co-main, Olympic champion Kayla Harrison submitted Julianna Peña via kimura in round two to become UFC bantamweight champion. The striking and grappling clinic sparked buzz for a superfight with Amanda Nunes.

Standout Card Finishes

• Joe Pyfer dominated Kelvin Gastelum via unanimous decision.
• Mario Bautista showcased masterful striking against Patchy Mix.
• Kevin Holland locked a D’Arce choke on Vicente Luque in round two; Joo Sang Yoo KO’d Jeka Saragih in 28 seconds.
  Dvalishvili and Harrison earned $50k bonuses for their standout finishes.

Preview: June 9–15, 2025

Boxing – Donaire vs. Campos

Scheduled for June 13 at Casino Buenos Aires, former multi-division champ Nonito Donaire will take on Campos in a showdown promising speed and power at 115 lbs.

Boxing – Richardson Hitchins Card

On June 14, Richardson Hitchins defends his junior welterweight belt. Promoted by Matchroom, the event has buzz, especially if Ernesto Mercado continues to push for a Matchroom rivalry.

UFC – Building Drama

No live UFC cards this week, but momentum is building towards UFC 317. The card is expected to feature featherweight king Alexander Volkanovski defending against Max Holloway and flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja facing Kai Kara-France.

Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes?

Talk continues to swirl around a possible superfight. With Nunes nearing a return, MMA insiders say a Harrison–Nunes match could redefine women’s bantamweight history.

Final Summary

This past week showcased elite-level supremacy—Dvalishvili’s dominance, Harrison’s gold run, and Wardley’s puncher’s turnaround—while setting the stage for more headline-making bouts. Coming up, there’s a blend of seasoned champs aiming to build legacy fights and emerging talents landing key opportunities. Fight week is upon us—stay ready.

For more stories and insights, visit It’s On

Instagram:@itson.ie

TikTok videos and information:@itson.ie