Matchroom Explodes into 2026 with Four DAZN Events – No PPV Needed
Matchroom Boxing is kicking off 2026 with fire and fury. Promoter Eddie Hearn promises four must-watch nights of world-class action across the UK and US. All events stream exclusively on DAZN, available worldwide to subscribers. The 2026 Matchroom Boxing schedule sets an explosive pace for the new year.
Andy Cruz Title Shot in Vegas
Las Vegas, January 24
Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) wastes no time, heading straight into a world title fight. He challenges reigning IBF Lightweight champion Raymond Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Cruz aims to dethrone the champion in a defining Vegas boxing clash in January 2026.
“I’m coming to take that belt back to Miami,” Cruz said. This highly anticipated world title fight is included with the DAZN subscription.
Josh Kelly Challenges for IBF Title
Newcastle, January 31
The action returns to the UK boxing scene a week later. Former British standout Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs) fights for the IBF belt against unbeaten knockout artist Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena. Kelly is eager to become a World Champion in front of his home fans on the exclusive fight night.
Josh Kelly said, “I am looking forward to the next phase of my career, becoming World Champion in 2026 with Matchroom, and fulfilling my potential that has always been there.”
Wood vs Warrington II: Domestic War
Nottingham, February 21
The domestic grudge match of the year is back on. Two former World Champions collide in a heated rematch in Nottingham. Leigh Wood (28-4, 17 KOs) seeks to prove his seventh-round knockout over Josh Warrington (32-4-1, 8 KOs) was no fluke. Warrington is hungry for redemption, guaranteeing an all-out clash for pride and legacy.
Leigh Wood said, “I’ve been gathering my four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, and a rabbit’s foot for luck. Because apparently that’s all it was last time.”
Josh Warrington added, “It’s finally here, I can close a chapter that has irritated me for the last two years. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’m ready now.”
Núñez vs Navarrete Unification Fire
Glendale, February 28
The month ends with a high-stakes unification superbout. IBF Super Featherweight king Eduardo’ Sugar’ Núñez (29-1, 27 KOs) takes on WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) in Arizona. Navarrete and Núñez promise a thrilling all-Mexican unification clash, delivering nonstop action for fans watching the DAZN boxing subscription.
Matchroom Coming in Hot
Eddie Hearn confirmed the urgency of the start: “We’re coming in hot for 2026. Four incredible nights of World Titles, rivalries, and unmissable battles – all live and exclusive on DAZN.”
All events are available worldwide exclusively through DAZN, bringing the best boxing directly to fight fans.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights.
View all articles by Phil Jay and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.