There’s a few underestimated boxers in professional boxing at the moment in 2026 that should get more credit.
The standard pound for pound internationally in the sport has never been so high.
The heavyweight division might be a bit weak at the moment but pound for pound across all divisions the standard has never been so high.
Here’s a look at some of the more underestimated boxers in the sport at the moment:
- Agit Kabayel (Heavyweight): Excellent boxing IQ, movement, and recent dominant wins. A real threat who deserves bigger title opportunities.
- Mario Barrios (Welterweight): WBC champion with solid skills, power, and durability. Battle-tested but often overlooked.
- Xander Zayas (Junior Middleweight): Young unified champion with elite technique and composure. Polished talent still waiting for full recognition.
- Brian Norman Jr. (Welterweight): Explosive power puncher with highlight KOs. Athletic and dangerous but sometimes undervalued.
- Joseph Parker (Heavyweight): Consistent veteran with strong fundamentals and resilience. Reliable performer who rarely gets enough credit.
- Amari Jones (Middleweight): Undefeated rising star with big knockout power. Impressive and headed for major fights.
- Vergil Ortiz (Welterweight): Terrific power, speed, and pressure. Elite contender stuck waiting for the biggest opportunities despite his record.
There are some that come to mind straight away but there’s more.
Don’t forget about Lamont Roach as well.
He fights William Zepeda soon by all accounts in early August.