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Usyk drops out of top 10! BoxRec's new ranking shocks everyone

Usyk drops out of top 10! BoxRec's new ranking shocks everyone Oleksandr Usyk (photo: Getty Images)

The updated BoxRec pound-for-pound rankings have sparked a wave of criticism in the boxing world. The list contains many controversial positions that surprised both fans and experts, WBN reports.

Usyk out of the top 10

According to the updated computer-based ranking system, the undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk ranks only 12th.

The Ukrainian boxer found himself alongside relatively unknown fighters such as Raymond Muratalla, Hamza Shiraz, Nick Ball, and Brian Norman Jr., even though he defeated Tyson Fury twice and became the first undisputed heavyweight champion in the last 25 years.

Even more surprising was the omission of Terence Crawford, whom most experts consider the best boxer of the modern era.

The reason is BoxRec's policy of excluding athletes who have not been in the ring for a long time.

In 2023, Crawford spectacularly defeated Errol Spence Jr., and in 2024 became champion in a fourth weight category. However, these notable achievements did not save him from being removed from the BoxRec list.

Who topped the men's rankings?

Naoya Inoue claimed the top spot in the men's rankings, which was the only logical choice on the list. However, experts believe he deserves first place only in a close comparison with Oleksandr Usyk.

Canelo Álvarez and Junto Nakatani took second and third places, while undefeated American stars Shakur Stevenson and Jaron Ennis are also ranked significantly higher than the Ukrainian.

The undervaluation of stars like Usyk, Shields, and Crawford, while fighters with limited records rise to the elite, adds another layer of controversy to an already fragmented boxing ranking system.

Women's rankings also surprised

The women's rankings were equally shocking. Danish boxer Dina Thorslund topped the list, surpassing superstars Claressa Shields, Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano, and Gabriela Fundora.

Meanwhile, Shields, the undisputed champion in three weight classes and one of the most decorated women in boxing history, ranked only sixth.

BoxRec algorithm: What's wrong with the system?

The BoxRec algorithm awards points based on activity, opponent level, and their rankings, but does not consider historical achievements or the fighter’s status. This leads to situations where lesser-known athletes rank above champions who have made history.

On social media, the updated list has been called "unfathomable" and "an insult to boxing."

Critics argue that pound-for-pound lists should reflect dominance, skill, and legacy, not just a mathematical equation that strips away context.