Two seasoned heavyweight contenders, Joe Joyce and Filip Hrgovic, are set to clash at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, England, in a battle that could redefine their careers. This Saturday's event features not only this main attraction but also several other compelling matchups, including David Adeleye versus Jeamie Tshikeva for the vacant British heavyweight title. Both fighters enter the ring with significant stakes; a loss might push them further from world-level contention. While Joyce has faced setbacks against Zhang and Chisora, Hrgovic suffered his first career defeat earlier this year. The prelims kick off at 11:10 a.m. ET, followed by the main card starting at 2 p.m. ET on DAZN.
The atmosphere in Manchester is electric as fans anticipate the showdown between Joyce and Hrgovic. Joyce, a former Olympic silver medalist, has demonstrated resilience throughout his professional journey. Despite being toppled twice by Zhilei Zhang in 2023, he managed a late stoppage of Kash Ali in March 2024. However, his subsequent defeat to Derek Chisora highlighted vulnerabilities that must be addressed if he hopes to regain prominence in the heavyweight division. At 39 years old, Joyce knows this fight represents a pivotal moment in his career.
Hrgovic brings an equally impressive record into the ring, marked by a decisive victory over China’s formidable puncher, Zhang, in August 2022. His status as the IBF mandatory challenger was short-lived, however, as he lost that position to Daniel Dubois in June. The Croatian fighter now seeks redemption and aims to prove his place among the elite heavyweights. With both athletes entering this bout under immense pressure, the stage is set for an explosive encounter.
Beyond the main event, the card offers intriguing matchups such as David Adeleye and Jeamie Tshikeva competing for the vacant British heavyweight title. Other bouts include super lightweight contests featuring Jack Rafferty versus Cory O’Regan and Khaleel Majid against Alex Murphy. These preliminary fights promise excitement leading up to the highly anticipated main event.
This heavyweight duel will undoubtedly test the mettle of both Joyce and Hrgovic. For Joyce, a victory would signify a resurgence in his quest for greatness, while Hrgovic looks to reassert himself after last year's setback. As the crowd gathers in Manchester, all eyes will be on these two warriors who seek to reclaim their rightful place among boxing's elite. Regardless of the outcome, Saturday's event promises thrilling action and unforgettable moments in the world of professional boxing.