The United Kingdom has produced some of the most legendary boxers of all time. From Joe Calzaghe to Lennox Lewis, the UK has produced some of the greatest fighters the world has ever seen.
These boxers have put the UK on the map for boxing, and have become household names in the sport. From up-and-coming stars to seasoned veterans, the UK continues to produce some of the best boxers in the world.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the best boxing players in the United Kingdom.
1. Lennox Lewis
Lennox Claudius Lewis CM CBE is a legendary figure in the world of boxing. He is a British-Canadian former professional boxer and current boxing commentator who competed between 1989 and 2003.
During his career, Lewis was incredibly successful, becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion and a two-time lineal champion.
He is also the last undisputed heavyweight champion, meaning he held all four major world championships in the heavyweight division and was the first British fighter to do so since Bob Fitzsimmons in 1897. Lewis is considered to be one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time due to his impressive career accomplishments.
He was the first British fighter to win a unified championship in a century, and he also defended his titles successfully a total of 24 times, the most by any heavyweight champion.In addition to his boxing career, Lewis has been honored for his exceptional sportsmanship and contributions to the sport.
He was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for both his achievements in boxing and as a role model for the public. In 2009, he was also inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, cementing his place in boxing history.
2. Joe Calzaghe
Joseph William Calzaghe CBE is a highly accomplished former professional boxer. He was born in Wales and competed in the sport from 1993 to 2008. During this time, he was able to ascend to the top of his game, becoming a multiple world champion in two different weight classes.
In particular, he held the unified and lineal titles for the super-middleweight division, as well as the Ring magazine light-heavyweight title. His impressive list of accomplishments is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
He was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his contributions to boxing, a fitting recognition of his achievements. Joseph William Calzaghe is a true legend in the sport of boxing, and his name will forever be remembered in the annals of the sport.
3. Lawrence Okolie
Lawrence Okolie is a British professional boxer with an impressive boxing career. Beginning in 2018, he held the Commonwealth title, the British title, and the European title. Then, in 2021, he was crowned World Boxing Organization cruiserweight champion.
He held this title for two years, until May 2023. Okolie is a multi-level champion, having achieved great success at the regional and world levels. His proficiency in the ring is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
He is an inspiration to aspiring boxers and a great example of what can be achieved with a commitment to excellence.
4. Ken Buchanan
Ken Buchanan MBE was an exceptional Scottish professional boxer who had a successful career spanning from 1965 to 1982. He achieved much success in his time as a boxer, becoming a multiple-championship lightweight fighter.
He won both the World Boxing Association (WBA) and Ring magazine titles in 1970, and he held these titles until his retirement from the sport in 1982. During this time, Buchanan was widely regarded as one of the best lightweight boxers in the world.
He fought a total of 64 bouts, winning 54 and losing 10.
He also earned a number of impressive accolades, including a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1972 for his outstanding achievement in boxing. Buchanan’s most famous fight was his 15-round battle against Roberto Duran in 1972.
He was ahead on points until the final round, where Duran landed a devastating punch that knocked Buchanan to the ground.
Despite the loss, Buchanan was praised for his determination, and it is seen as one of the greatest fights of all time. After retiring from boxing, Buchanan stayed active in the sport through coaching and mentoring up-and-coming boxers.
He was also involved in several charitable initiatives, including his work with the Citizens Advice Bureau in Scotland. Ken Buchanan MBE was an iconic figure in boxing, and his legacy continues to live on to this day.
He was an inspiration to many and will always be remembered as one of Scotland’s greatest boxers.
5. Bob Fitzsimmons
Robert James Fitzsimmons was a British professional boxer who made a name for himself in the sport, becoming the first three-division world champion. He was especially celebrated for beating Gentleman Jim Corbett, a heavyweight champion in his own right.
This feat helped make Robert James Fitzsimmons an iconic figure in the world of boxing. His feat was so impressive that it earned him a place in The Guinness Book of World Records as the lightest heavyweight champion, weighing just 165 pounds when he won the title.
This remarkable accomplishment speaks to his skill and determination as a boxer and showcases his talent for pushing the boundaries in the sport. His legacy continues to inspire boxers today, and his contribution to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
6. Naseem Hamed
Naseem Hamed was an outstanding British professional boxer who achieved great success in his career from 1992 to 2002. Commonly known as Prince Naseem and Naz, Hamed was a world-renowned featherweight boxer who held a multitude of championship titles during his career.
He was the proud holder of the WBO title from 1995 to 2000, the IBF title in 1997 and the WBC title from 1999 to 2000. Hamed was a formidable force in the ring, known for his lightning speed and agility.
He quickly rose to prominence with fans around the world, becoming the first fighter to win the prestigious Ring magazine’s ‘Fighter of the Year’ award in 1995. He won a total of 36 fights during his career with 31 of them coming by knockout.
Hamed’s success in the ring was also matched by his flamboyant and theatrical style of entrance, which has become iconic in the boxing world. He was also known for his flashy lifestyle both in and out of the ring.
Despite his retirement in 2002, Hamed is still remembered as one of the greatest British boxers of all time.
7. Ricky Hatton
Richard John Hatton MBE is a former professional boxer who was active in the sport for 15 years, from 1997 to 2012. During his career, he was a successful boxer, winning multiple world championships at light welterweight and one at welterweight.
After retiring from boxing, Hatton has since worked as a boxing promoter and trainer. Hatton is widely recognized as a top boxer, with many awards and titles to his name.
He was named the ‘Fighter of the Year’ by the Boxing Writers Association of America in 2005 and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.
Additionally, he was awarded an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II in 2010, in recognition of his services to boxing. Hatton’s career in boxing was largely successful, with his notable victories including a win against Kostya Tszyu for the IBF Junior Welterweight title and a win against José Luis Castillo for the WBC Light Welterweight title.
During his 15-year career, Hatton was involved in 45 fights, with 40 wins and 5 losses. Since retiring from boxing, Hatton has been involved in the sport as a promoter and trainer.
He is the founder and owner of Hatton Promotions, which promotes boxing events in the UK and abroad, and is also the trainer of British professional boxer, Josh Warrington. Overall, Richard John Hatton MBE is a successful former professional boxer who has achieved many accolades and titles throughout his career.
After retiring, he has stayed involved in the sport, promoting and training upcoming boxers.
8. Chris Eubank
Christopher Livingstone Eubank is a former professional boxer who had a long and successful career, spanning from 1985 to 1998. He achieved great success in the ring, winning the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles between 1990 and 1995.
His accomplishments have earned him a ranking among British super-middleweight boxers, with BoxRec placing him as the third best of all time. Throughout his career, Eubank was known for his dynamic style of fighting and his unyielding determination.
He was known to never back down from a challenge and to fight with tenacity and passion.
He was also well-known for his unique sense of style, often wearing bright, flashy clothing both in and outside of the ring. Eubank’s career saw him fight in some of the world’s most iconic venues, including Madison Square Garden in New York, and the London Arena.
He also had several high-profile fights against the likes of Nigel Benn, Michael Watson, and Carl Thompson.
His bout against Watson is particularly well-remembered, as it ended in tragedy after Watson suffered a severe brain injury. Eubank retired from boxing in 1998, but he still remains an iconic figure in the sport.
He is remembered for his unwavering spirit and his determination to reach the top. His legacy has been honored with a statue placed outside of the London Arena, and he continues to be an inspiration to aspiring boxers all over the world.
9. Randolph Turpin
Randolph Adolphus Turpin, commonly known as Randy Turpin, was a British boxer in the 1940s and 1950s. He was known for his impressive boxing prowess and his career highlight came in 1951 when he became the world middleweight champion after defeating Sugar Ray Robinson.
This was a remarkable accomplishment for Turpin and it earned him a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2001. Turpin’s boxing career began in 1946 when he turned professional. He quickly rose up the ranks to become a top contender in the middleweight division.
He fought in many different countries, including Canada, France, and Germany, before finally earning a shot at the world title. This came in 1951 when he was matched up against Sugar Ray Robinson, who was considered one of the greatest boxers of all time.
Turpin managed to take the victory and the world title in a stunning upset. After his victory, Turpin went on to defend his title three times before eventually losing it. He retired from boxing in 1956, having had a successful career.
In 2001, he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in the ring. Turpin will always be remembered as one of the great British boxers of the 1940s and 1950s, and his induction into the Hall of Fame is a further testament to his legacy.
10. Anthony Joshua
Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua OBE is a British professional boxer renowned for his accomplishments in the sport.
He is a two-time unified world heavyweight champion, having won and held the World Boxing Association (WBA), International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) titles between 2016 and 2021.
His impressive achievements in the sport have earned him recognition and respect from the boxing community. Joshua’s career began in 2013 when he was selected for the Great Britain Olympic team and won a gold medal in the super-heavyweight category.
Following his success at the Olympics, Joshua turned professional in 2013 and quickly rose to prominence in the world of boxing.
He made his professional debut in October 2013 with an impressive victory, and by 2016 he had become the IBF heavyweight champion. In 2017, Joshua successfully defended his IBF title against Wladimir Klitschko in a classic fight.
Following this, he went on to win the WBA and WBO titles in 2018 by defeating Joseph Parker.
This made him a unified heavyweight champion, a feat he repeated in 2019 when he added the WBO title to his list of accomplishments. In 2020, Joshua lost his WBA, IBF and WBO titles in a stunning upset to Andy Ruiz Jr.
He was able to regain the titles in 2021 in an epic rematch against Ruiz.
This marked the second time that Joshua had achieved the feat of being a unified world heavyweight champion. In recognition of his achievements, Joshua was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2021.
This was a fitting reward for a boxer who has achieved so much in the sport and gained worldwide respect from his peers.
11. Nigel Benn
Nigel Gregory Benn is a former professional boxer who had a successful career between 1987 and 1996. He was particularly successful in two different weight classes, which enabled him to become a world champion in both of them.
In 1990, he won the WBO middleweight title and held onto it for a couple of years. He then moved up in weight and in 1992, he took the WBC super-middleweight title, which he held onto until 1996.
Benn was a highly decorated boxer in his time, and his success is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. He is remembered fondly by boxing fans around the world, and his legacy continues to live on.
12. Lloyd Honeyghan
Lloyd Honeyghan is a renowned former British professional boxer who had an illustrious career in the sport spanning from 1980 to 1995. Honeyghan made a name for himself after becoming the undisputed welterweight champion from 1986 to 1987.
During this period, he held the WBC and The Ring magazine welterweight titles twice from 1986 to 1989. He was renowned for his unique blend of speed, agility and power, which he used to win several fights and championship titles.
Honeyghan was also known for his immense determination and courage, which enabled him to remain at the top of his game for many years. Even after retiring from boxing in 1995, Honeyghan is remembered for his remarkable achievements and his contributions to the sport.
13. Duke McKenzie
Duke McKenzie MBE is a name that is well known in the boxing world. He is a former professional boxer who competed from 1982 to 1998 and is a three-weight world champion. He first became a champion in 1988 when he won the IBF flyweight title and held it until 1989.
He then went on to become the WBO bantamweight champion from 1991 to 1992, and the WBO junior-featherweight champion from 1992 to 1993.McKenzie’s accomplishments in boxing are impressive, as he has held the IBF flyweight title, the WBO bantamweight title and the WBO junior-featherweight title.
He has also been awarded the MBE, an honour given to people with exceptional achievement in public service.
This is just one example of the recognition he has earned for his hard work and dedication to the sport.McKenzie’s career was a successful one, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest boxers of his generation.
He was an inspiration to many and his legacy will live on in the boxing world for years to come.
14. John Conteh
John Anthony Conteh, MBE is a former British professional boxer who had a successful career in the ring. He was active as a boxer from 1971 to 1980 and achieved many accolades during this time.
In 1974, he became the WBC light-heavyweight champion and held the title for three years until 1977. On top of the WBC title, he also held the European, British and Commonwealth titles between 1973 and 1974.
This makes him one of the most decorated professional boxers in British history. He was even awarded an MBE in recognition of his achievements.
Conteh’s career was an incredible success and is a great example of the heights a boxer can reach when they are driven and dedicated to their sport.
15. Tyson Fury
Tyson Luke Fury is a British professional boxer who is currently the reigning World Boxing Council heavyweight champion. He has held this title since 2020, and before that he held the unified heavyweight title from 2015 to 2016.
He has also achieved the prestigious Ring magazine title twice, first in 2015 and again in 2022. Fury is renowned for his formidable presence in the ring, which has helped him to become one of the most successful heavyweights of all time.
His impressive repertoire of titles and accomplishments is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
16. Howard Winstone
Howard Winstone was a Welsh world champion boxer born in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. He was a highly decorated boxer who achieved great success in both the amateur and professional boxing scene.
As an amateur, Winstone won the Amateur Boxing Association bantamweight title in 1958 and a Commonwealth Games Gold Medal at the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games in Cardiff.
This was an incredible feat, considering the fact that he was competing against some of the best boxers of his generation. Winstone’s success in the amateur boxing scene paved the way for his transition into professional boxing.
He went on to become a three-time world champion, winning the British, European, and World Boxing Union featherweight titles. He was also awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of his accomplishments.
Winstone was an inspiration to many up-and-coming boxers who saw him as a role model. His hard work and dedication to the sport of boxing is something that should be remembered and celebrated.
His legacy lives on in Welsh boxing history, and he will always be remembered as an incredible athlete and champion.
17. Josh Taylor
Josh Taylor is a professional boxer from Scotland. He is widely considered to be one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
In 2019, Taylor became the undisputed super lightweight champion, meaning he held the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and World Boxing Association (WBA) titles simultaneously.
This achievement was made even more impressive by the fact that Taylor had only just turned professional in 2015, making his rise to the top of the sport in just four years. Taylor’s reign as champion was short-lived, however, as he was stripped of his titles in 2020.
Despite this setback, Taylor is still regarded as one of the top boxers in the world and is widely considered to be an elite fighter. His career may have been short, but his accomplishments speak for themselves, and his skill and talent are undeniable.
18. Ted Lewis
Ted “Kid” Lewis was an iconic British-Jewish professional boxer. He was a two-time world welterweight champion and is widely considered to be one of the greatest boxers of all time.
ESPN ranked Lewis 41st on their list of the 50 greatest boxers of all time, and boxing historian Bert Sugar placed him 46th in his Top 100 Fighters catalog. Lewis was born in London in 1893, and at the age of 15 he began boxing professionally.
He had a successful career, winning the British welterweight title in 1914. He then went on to win the world welterweight championship in 1915 and 1921.
He was known for his aggressive and skillful fighting style, which earned him the nickname “The Ghetto Wizard”.Lewis was one of the first Jewish boxers to achieve international success.
His career achievements earned him widespread recognition and respect in the boxing world, and he is still highly regarded today. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993, and his legacy continues to inspire countless future boxers.
19. Barry McGuigan
Finbar Patrick McGuigan MBE is a legendary figure in the world of boxing. A native of Clones, Ireland, McGuigan earned his nickname “The Clones Cyclone” for his fast and fierce fighting style.
He made his mark on the professional boxing circuit in 1985 when he won the World Boxing Association (WBA) and lineal featherweight titles.
His reign as champion lasted until 1986 when he was defeated in a highly-publicized match.McGuigan has since gone on to become a sought-after boxing promoter, organizing large-scale boxing events throughout the world.
He is highly respected throughout the boxing community for the contributions he has made to the sport. McGuigan’s influence in boxing has been so great that he was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to the sport.
20. Henry Cooper
Sir Henry Cooper was a British heavyweight boxer who made a name for himself in the boxing world. He was an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and was also bestowed with the Knight of the Order of St. Gregory (KSG).
He was undefeated for twelve years in contests for the British and Commonwealth heavyweight championships and held the European heavyweight title for three years. He was a formidable boxer who made a lasting impression in the boxing world with his skill and determination.
Cooper was born in London in 1934 and began his professional career as a boxer in 1954. He made an immediate impact, winning his first fight in just over a minute and a half.
From then on, he went on to win a string of fights, including his first British heavyweight title in 1959. He was known for his tenacious style of fighting, which saw him come out on top in many of his bouts.
He was also a popular figure outside of the ring, being a regular feature on the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award. He was awarded the OBE in 1969 and the KSG in 2000, among other awards.
His name also inspired the Henry Cooper Award, which is given to the best British boxer each year. Sir Henry Cooper was a legendary British boxer who left an indelible mark on the boxing world. He was a formidable fighter and a beloved figure outside of the ring.
He will always be remembered for his skill and determination in the ring and his philanthropic works outside of it.
21. Frank Bruno
Franklin Roy Bruno, MBE is a former professional boxer from Britain who had a long and successful career that lasted from 1982 to 1996. He was well-known in the boxing world and also made headlines outside of the ring for his many escapades and incidents.
Bruno was an accomplished fighter, winning a total of forty of his forty-five professional bouts. He won the WBC Heavyweight title in 1995, defeating Oliver McCall.
Bruno was also known for his entertaining style of boxing, with his aggressive and powerful punches. Outside of the ring, Bruno was also a well-known figure, due to his numerous controversies and run-ins with the law.
He was arrested multiple times for various offences and was also involved in a scandalous divorce battle with his ex-wife.
He also had a few highly publicized bouts with mental health issues, which further highlighted his notoriety. In recognition of his accomplishments and popularity, Bruno was awarded with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1996.
He retired from professional boxing the same year, ending his successful career. Since his retirement, he has continued to remain a popular figure in the sport, with many fans still cheering for him.
22. Tommy Farr
Thomas George Farr was a professional boxer from Clydach Vale, Rhondda, Wales, who earned the nickname “The Tonypandy Terror”. He was a light heavyweight boxer and held the Welsh championship in that division prior to 1936.
On 15 March 1937, Farr made history by becoming the British and Empire heavyweight champion. This was a significant accomplishment, given the fact that he had to face much larger and stronger opponents in order to win the title.
Farr’s skills as a boxer were so impressive that he earned the respect and admiration of both his opponents and the boxing world. He was an inspiration to many aspiring boxers, and his legacy lives on today.
23. Callum Smith
Callum John Smith is a highly accomplished English professional boxer. He has held some of the most prestigious titles in the sport, including the WBA and Ring magazine super-middleweight titles from 2018 to 2020. This puts him among the elite of the professional boxing world.
Prior to his world titles, Smith had already made a name for himself at the regional level. Between 2015 and 2017, he held the British and European super-middleweight titles, further cementing his place as one of the top boxers in the United Kingdom.
Smith has proven himself to be a world-class boxer, capable of competing at the highest levels of the sport. His success in both professional and regional boxing is a testament to his skill and determination.
24. Sunny Edwards
Sunny Edwards is a professional boxer from the United Kingdom who has been the IBF flyweight champion since 2021. He is the younger brother of Charlie Edwards, who was a former flyweight world boxing champion.
As of February 2023, Sunny is ranked second among active flyweights by four of the world’s leading boxing rankings organizations, including BoxRec, TBRB, The Ring, and ESPN.
His success has been remarkable, as he has quickly become one of the most highly regarded flyweights in the world. He has accomplished this through hard work, dedication, and skillful boxing.
His brother Charlie’s success has undoubtedly been an inspiration to him, and his own success in boxing is a testament to his talent.
25. Josh Warrington
Josh Warrington is an English professional boxer who has achieved a great deal of success in his career. He is a two-time world featherweight champion, having held the International Boxing Federation title twice between 2018 and 2022.
During this period, he was a dominant presence in the featherweight division. Warrington also had success at the regional level, having held the British, Commonwealth and European featherweight titles between 2013 and 2017.
This period saw Warrington establish himself as one of the top featherweights in the region and was a precursor to his later successes at the world level. In total, Josh Warrington has held four world and regional titles during his stellar boxing career.
His impressive record speaks to his determination and skill, and he is seen as one of the most successful featherweight boxers of his generation.
26. Billy Joe Saunders
Billy Joe Saunders is an impressive British professional boxer who has made history by becoming the first fighter from the Travelling community to win world championships in two separate weight classes.
He first won the WBO middleweight title from 2015 to 2018 and then went on to win the WBO super-middleweight title from 2019 to 2021.
This is an incredible feat of athleticism and determination, as Saunders has had to battle against the odds to reach the top in his sport. Saunders’ achievements are all the more impressive considering the discrimination and prejudice faced by the Travelling community.
Despite the social stigma attached to this minority community, Saunders has managed to reach the pinnacle of his sport and become an inspiration to his fellow Travellers.
His success has shown that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. The fact that Saunders has achieved world championships in two weight classes is a testament to his skill and determination.
He has shown that he can handle the pressure of competing in multiple weight divisions, and this is something that many boxers struggle to do.
He has also demonstrated that he is capable of adapting to different opponents and strategies, something which is essential in the world of professional boxing. Saunders’ success is a positive message of hope to all those in the Travelling community, illustrating that talent and perseverance can triumph over adversity.
It is a reminder that no matter what challenges we face in life, anything is possible if we remain focused on our goal.
27. Dillian Whyte
Dillian Whyte is a well-known British professional boxer who has an impressive resume in both kickboxing and mixed martial arts. He is the current holder of the WBC interim heavyweight title, having won the belt twice between 2019 and 2022.
On the regional level, Whyte has had much success as well, winning the British heavyweight title from 2016 to 2017. His impressive achievements in the sport have solidified his spot as one of the best heavyweight boxers in the world.
Whyte has been boxing since a young age and has even competed in kickboxing and mixed martial arts. He has a strong and aggressive fighting style that has allowed him to win multiple championships.
His tall stature and powerful punches make him a difficult opponent to beat in the ring. Whyte has had many successful bouts in his career, having competed against some of the top boxers in the world.
He has had several impressive victories, including retaining his WBC interim heavyweight title in 2021.
He also had a successful run as the British heavyweight champion, holding the title from 2016 to 2017. Overall, Dillian Whyte is one of the best heavyweight boxers in the world.
He has had a stellar career in the sport, having won multiple championships and successfully defended his titles against some of the top boxers in the world. His fighting style is aggressive and powerful, and he will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
28. John Ryder
John Ryder is a talented British professional boxer who has had remarkable success in his weight class. He has held two interim super-middleweight world titles and challenged twice for the full world titles.
His most notable accomplishment has been his attempt to become the undisputed champion in his weight class.
His achievements in the ring have been extraordinary and have earned him respect in the boxing world. Throughout his career, John Ryder has consistently proven to be a formidable opponent.
He has been able to stay competitive even in the toughest fights and has shown great resilience when challenging for the full world titles. He has also been successful in defending his interim titles, proving he can handle the pressure of a championship fight.
His determination and skill have made him a well-respected and feared fighter in the boxing world. John Ryder’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. He has been featured in publications and interviews and has earned the admiration of many boxing fans.
Ryder has been an inspiration to aspiring boxers, showing them that dedication and hard work can lead to great success. His ability to overcome challenges and win world titles has made him an example to look up to. John Ryder’s accomplishments have been truly remarkable.
He has put in countless hours of hard work and has made a name for himself in the boxing world. He has achieved success by challenging himself and pushing his limits to become the best boxer he can be.
His dedication and determination will continue to inspire others to reach for their goals and never give up.
29. Leigh Wood
Leigh Wood is an English professional boxer. He is a two-time and current world featherweight champion, with a distinguished career in the boxing ring. He first held the World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight title in 2021, becoming the youngest-ever British WBA champion.
After successfully defending his title twice, Wood lost the belt in February 2023. However, he quickly regained it in May of that same year and has held it ever since.
His impressive resume includes wins over several world-class opponents, including Julian Evaristo ‘El Venado’ Ramirez, Ryan Walsh, and Kid Galahad. Wood is a talented and experienced boxer, and it is clear that he will remain a force to be reckoned with for many years to come.
30. Jimmy Wilde
William James Wilde was a Welsh professional boxer who competed from 1911 to 1923. He was a highly accomplished boxer, having achieved a number of titles throughout his career.
In 1916, he held the IBU world flyweight title, which is the championship for boxers in the flyweight division. He was also the EBU European flyweight champion on two occasions: firstly in 1914 and again from 1920 to 1923.
This title is the championship for boxers in the flyweight division in Europe. Wilde was an incredibly talented boxer, and his ability to remain the European Champion for such a long period of time is a testament to his skill and tenacity.
He was not only a great boxer, but also a great role model for aspiring boxers. His determination to succeed demonstrated that hard work and dedication can lead to success, even when the odds are against you.
Wilde is remembered for his incredible achievements in boxing, and his legacy will continue to inspire young boxers for generations to come. His hard work and dedication to the sport will serve as an example for many to follow.
31. David Haye
David Deron Haye is a British former professional boxer who was active in the sport from 2002 to 2018. During his career, Haye achieved great success and held multiple world titles in two different weight classes.
He is also highly distinguished for being the first British boxer to make it to the final round of the World Amateur Boxing Championships, where he won a silver medal in 2001. Haye began his professional career in 2002 and went on to win numerous fights.
He was the undisputed cruiserweight champion when he unified the WBA, WBC, and The Ring cruiserweight titles. Haye then moved up to heavyweight and became the WBA champion in 2009. He defended his title successfully three times before eventually losing it in 2011.
Throughout his professional career, Haye achieved many impressive feats. He was the first British boxer to unify a division in its entirety and the first British boxer to hold world titles in two different divisions.
Furthermore, Haye is ranked as one of the best heavyweight champions of all time. David Deron Haye is a great example of a successful boxer who worked hard and achieved greatness.
After a successful career, Haye retired from the sport in 2018, but his accomplishments will always be remembered.
32. Paul Butler
Paul Butler is an accomplished professional boxer who has achieved great success in his career. He is a two-time bantamweight world champion, having held the International Boxing Federation (IBF) title in 2014 and the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) title in 2022.
Butler is a native of England and has been actively competing in the sport since 2009. Throughout his career, Butler has put forth his best effort into every fight and has earned victories in all of his championship bouts.
He has trained rigorously and has developed a strong technique and style that have earned him numerous accolades.
Butler has earned several awards, such as the British Boxing Board of Control Young Boxer of the Year in 2014, and has been recognized by the boxing community as one of the top bantamweight class fighters in the world. Outside of the ring, Butler has been an advocate for boxing and has been an inspiration to many aspiring fighters.
He has been a role model and has encouraged young people to pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult it may be.
Butler has also been involved in humanitarian efforts, volunteering his time and resources to help those in need. Paul Butler is a true champion, both in and out of the ring.
His dedication to the sport and his commitment to helping others is admirable and has earned him the respect of many in the boxing community.
He is an example of what hard work and dedication can do, and he is a prime example of how success can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.
33. Amir Khan
Amir Iqbal Khan PP is a British former professional boxer who had an impressive career spanning from 2005 to 2022. He was a world champion in the light-welterweight class between 2009 and 2012, where he held both the WBA and IBF titles.
Before that, he had success at the regional level, where he held the Commonwealth lightweight title from 2007 to 2008. His skill in the ring was undeniable, and he proved to be a formidable opponent for any boxer who stepped up to challenge him.
Throughout his career, he worked hard to hone his craft and perfect his technique, and his dedication paid off in the form of prestigious titles and world recognition. Khan was a true champion in the boxing world and his legacy will live on for years to come.
34. Tony Bellew
Anthony Lewis Bellew is an accomplished former professional boxer from England. He competed as a professional from 2007 to 2018 and has since become a boxing analyst and commentator.
During his time as a boxer, Bellew achieved great success, becoming the WBC cruiserweight champion from 2016 to 2017. In 2018 he even challenged for the undisputed cruiserweight championship, showing his ambition and strength as a competitor.
Throughout his career, Bellew has consistently demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level and his commitment to the sport.
His transition to a boxing analyst and commentator has allowed him to continue to stay involved in the sport he loves, while also broadening his horizons.
35. Carl Froch
Carl Martin Froch is a highly decorated British professional boxer who had a successful career from 2002 to 2014.
During this time, he won multiple world championships and was awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) honor by Her Majesty the Queen in recognition of his accomplishments.
Following his retirement from fighting, Froch has taken up a role as a boxing analyst and commentator, providing in-depth analysis and insight into the world of boxing.
He is considered to be one of the most knowledgeable people in the sport and continues to be a strong voice in the boxing community. Froch’s career accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport and will be remembered by generations to come.
36. Isaac Chamberlain
Isaac Chamberlain is a British professional boxer who is currently competing in the cruiserweight division of the World Boxing Super Series.
He is one of the most promising British boxers of his generation, having made a name for himself as an amateur boxer with a string of impressive performances.
His professional career began in 2016 and he has since fought a number of notable opponents, including former world champion and former Olympic gold medalist Tony Bellew. He has an impressive record of twenty-one wins, with only one defeat.
His ability to perform at an elite level has earned him the respect of both fans and fellow boxers. He is widely regarded as one of the top boxers in the cruiserweight division and is considered a potential world champion.
Chamberlain is an exciting and aggressive fighter, and he has been known to take risks in the ring in order to gain an advantage over his opponents. He is a highly skilled boxer who always brings a high-energy performance, making him a fan favorite.
37. George Groves
George Groves is a former professional boxer from Britain who was active in the sport from 2008 to 2018. During his career, Groves achieved numerous accomplishments, including becoming WBA super-middleweight champion from 2017 to 2018.
He also held multiple regional titles, such as the European, British, and Commonwealth titles, from 2010 to 2014. Groves is one of the most successful British boxers of all time.
During his heyday, he fought some of the top professional fighters in the world and was known for his aggressive style and powerful punches.
He was also an impressive tactician who could adjust his style depending on his opponent. Groves was a dominant force in the super-middleweight division, winning several titles including the WBA super-middleweight title.
He also held the European, British, and Commonwealth titles between 2010 and 2014.
Throughout his career, Groves was considered to be a formidable opponent and a tough competitor. His accomplishments in the sport were impressive, and he achieved a successful career as a professional boxer.
Throughout his career, George Groves was seen as an inspiring figure to aspiring boxers. He was an example of the dedication and hard work that can lead to success in the sport.
38. Carl Frampton
Carl Frampton MBE is a legendary boxer who made his professional debut in 2009. He was born in Northern Ireland and held two prestigious world championship titles during his career.
From 2014 to 2016, Frampton was the unified WBA and IBF super-bantamweight champion, and from 2016 to 2017 he held the WBA featherweight title. During his career, Frampton won a total of 24 fights, with 14 of them coming by way of knockout.
He also had an impressive record of six wins in world title fights. In addition to his accomplishments in the ring, Frampton was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to boxing in 2019.
Frampton’s career is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest boxers of his era.
39. Zach Parker
Zach Parker is a professional boxer from England who held the British super-middleweight title for a period of one year.
He is highly respected in the boxing world and is known for his powerful punches and quick reflexes. Parker, originally from Liverpool, started his boxing career in 2014 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning several amateur boxing tournaments.
In 2018, he won his first professional bout and went on to be crowned the British super-middleweight champion.
During his one-year reign, he successfully defended his title four times and earned accolades from boxing pundits. Parker is known to work hard in the gym and has a strict diet and training regime. He is a well-rounded fighter who has developed a strong jab and powerful hooks.
He is also a technical fighter who uses his footwork to outmaneuver his opponents. Although Parker lost the British super-middleweight title in 2019, he is still considered one of the top contenders in the super-middleweight division.
He continues to fight and is looking to reclaim his title in the near future.
40. Rocky Fielding
Michael “Rocky” Fielding is a British professional boxer who has achieved a great deal of success in his career. He is a former WBA super-middleweight title holder, having won the title in 2018.
Additionally, he has held regional titles, such as the Commonwealth super-middleweight title twice between 2013 and 2017, and the British super-middleweight title in 2017.
Fielding has shown his skill and determination to become a successful boxer, and he is a great example to aspiring boxers in the UK.
41. Anthony Crolla
Anthony Crolla is a renowned former professional boxer from the United Kingdom. He competed in the sport from 2006 up until his retirement in 2019, making a lasting impression on the world of boxing.
During his career, he achieved much success, including winning the WBA lightweight title from 2015 to 2016. Additionally, he challenged for the unified WBA and WBO lightweight titles in 2019, showing his determination and impressive skill level.
Crolla was known for his bravery and strength in the ring, always delivering an electrifying performance for the fans. He left an enduring legacy in the boxing world, and will forever remain a popular figure in the sport.
His ability to show resilience and ambition made him a fan favorite, and his contribution to the sport will never be forgotten.
42. Kell Brook
Ezekiel “Kell” Brook is a former British professional boxer who had an impressive career spanning from 2004 to 2022. During that time, he made an impact on the world of boxing and won several titles.
He was the IBF welterweight champion from 2014 to 2017 and was the first British boxer to hold that title.
Brook also had the opportunity to challenge for the unified middleweight world title in 2016, though he ultimately lost the match. Throughout his career, Brook remained a reliable and skillful boxer, often taking on difficult opponents.
He won several matches by knockout or a unanimous decision, demonstrating his strength and determination. He also held several records, including the longest reign as IBF welterweight champion.
Brook’s career has been incredibly impressive and he has left an undeniable mark on the world of boxing. He was successful at both the welterweight and middleweight divisions and his accomplishments have been inspiring to many.
Although he has now retired, Brook’s legacy will live on in the sport of boxing.
43. Jack Kid Berg
Judah Bergman, more famously known as Jack Kid Berg or Jackie Kid Berg, was born in the East End of London and was a notable boxer. He had a successful career, becoming the World Light Welterweight Champion in 1930.
He began boxing as a teenager and made his professional debut in 1921. He was known for his aggressive and powerful punching, which helped him to quickly move up the ranks. Jack Kid Berg fought in over 100 bouts in his career and was undefeated for a span of seven years.
He was a popular name in the sport, and his fame grew with his championship title. His boxing career came to an end in 1938 when he retired, but he still had a lasting impact on the sport.
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1994 for his great achievements in the sport.
44. Carl Thompson
Adrian Carl Thompson was a professional boxer from Britain who was active in the sport from 1988 until 2005. During his career, he achieved a great deal of success, particularly in the cruiserweight division.
He held the WBO title between 1997 and 1999 and then the IBO title twice, from 2001 to 2005. Thompson’s achievements in the sport of boxing were considerable, as he managed to become a champion in the cruiserweight division on multiple occasions.
His first title was the WBO title which he held for two years, from 1997 to 1999. He then went on to win the IBO title twice, first in 2001 and again in 2005.
These successes firmly established him as one of the top cruiserweights of his era. Throughout his career, Thompson fought with determination and skill, which allowed him to overcome his opponents and achieve success.
He was able to compete against some of the best in the sport, and he was able to hold his own against them.
His outstanding record of success is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the sport of boxing. Adrian Carl Thompson was a great boxer who achieved a great deal of success in the ring, especially in the cruiserweight division.
His accomplishments in the sport of boxing will always be remembered, and he will be remembered as one of the greatest British boxers of his time.
45. Johnny Nelson
Ivanson Ranny “Johnny” Nelson MBE is an accomplished British professional boxer and analyst. He began his career in 1986 and competed until 2005. During his time as a boxer, Johnny achieved a great deal of success.
He was the longest reigning cruiserweight world champion in history, holding the World Boxing Organization Cruiserweight title from 1999 to 2006.
Johnny is highly respected in the boxing world and was even awarded the MBE (Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for his work. He is now retired from boxing but continues to be involved in the sport as an analyst.
He is a keen observer of the sport and regularly gives his opinion on boxing matches and the careers of different fighters. Johnny’s career is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
He has managed to stay in the public eye throughout his retirement and is still respected in the boxing world. He is an inspiration to aspiring boxers and his career is undoubtedly one of the most impressive in British boxing history.
46. Enzo Maccarinelli
Enzo Maccarinelli is a retired Welsh professional boxer who enjoyed a successful career in the sport from 1999 to 2016. He is a former world champion, having held the WBO cruiserweight title from 2006 to 2008.
This was a prestigious achievement for Maccarinelli, and he also had a great deal of success at the regional level. He held the European and British cruiserweight titles between 2010 and 2012, and the Commonwealth light-heavyweight title in 2013.
This shows that Maccarinelli was a formidable fighter who was able to make a name for himself in the boxing world. His career was one filled with a great deal of success, and he will always be remembered for his achievements in the sport.
47. Benny Lynch
Benjamin Lynch was a Scottish professional boxer who competed in the flyweight division. He is highly regarded by many in the boxing community, with many considering him to be one of the finest boxers in his era that competed in the divisions below lightweight.
Furthermore, he has been described as the greatest fighter Scotland ever produced, a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. Lynch began his career in 1934 and went on to win the British flyweight championship in 1937, successfully defending it multiple times.
He also had notable wins against the likes of Jackie Brown and Young Martin, both of whom were ranked contenders in the lightweight division. His style was described as being “fast and accurate”.
He retired from boxing in 1940, with a professional record of 47 wins, 10 losses and 5 draws. In recognition of his immense skill, Benjamin Lynch was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.
He was posthumously awarded the British Empire Medal in 2019 for his contributions to the sport. This honour is further evidence of his legacy, and his status as one of the greatest Scottish boxers of all time.
48. Freddie Welsh
Freddie Welsh was a Welsh-born boxer who made a name for himself in the world of boxing. Born in Pontypridd, Wales, he was known as the “Welsh Wizard” due to his incredible fighting skills.
Growing up in a tight-knit mining community, Welsh had a working-class background but was determined to make a name for himself in America. After gaining fame in the US, Welsh eventually became a world champion in the lightweight boxing division.
His story is an inspiring one, showing how hard work and dedication can help someone break free from their circumstances and achieve success.
49. Charlie Magri
Carmel Magri is a British former professional boxer from a Tunisian family. He was born and raised in Mile End, London, and went by the name Charlie Magri during his boxing career. Magri was successful in his professional career, winning the WBC and lineal flyweight titles.
This was a remarkable achievement, considering Magri’s humble beginnings in Mile End and his background as a boxer of Tunisian descent. Magri’s story is one of inspiration and determination, having overcome tough odds to become a champion in the boxing world.
His success serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve great things with hard work and dedication.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom has produced some of the best boxers in the world, most notably Lennox Lewis, Nigel Benn, and Joe Calzaghe.
These three fighters have solidified their place in history by becoming world champions and have set the standard for future generations of British boxers. All in all, the United Kingdom has a proud history of producing some of the best boxers in the world.
