Rising Stars: Five Super Lightweight Boxers Poised for Greatness in 2026

The super lightweight division has kicked off 2026 with a flurry of activity, setting the stage for an exhilarating year ahead. Gary Antuanne Russell successfully defended his WBA world title, while Shakur Stevenson claimed the WBO world championship in a thrilling victory over Teófimo López. Dalton Smith also made waves by securing the WBC world title with a win against Subriel Matías. On the women’s side, Sandy Ryan triumphed over Karla Ramos Zamora to capture the vacant WBC title. Richardson Hitchins, unfortunately, had to withdraw from his IBF title defense due to illness, adding a twist to the early-year narrative.

Beyond the established champions, several emerging talents are eager to make their mark in 2026. Here are five super lightweight boxers who deserve your attention this year:

Curmel Moton

Curmel Moton, with an impressive record of 9-0 and 7 KOs, has been making waves since his professional debut at the age of 17 in 2023. Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, Moton has already showcased his skills in a fight this year. Given his trajectory, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him on the undercard of a major event like Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2.

Ernesto Mercado

Ernesto Mercado, boasting an 18-0 record with 17 KOs, is a super lightweight promoted by Matchroom Boxing. Known for his knockout power, Mercado has faced setbacks with two fight cancellations—one due to an opponent’s weight issue and another due to his own injury. Despite these challenges, he won both his fights in 2025 and is poised for a strong 2026.

Jhon Orobio

Jhon Orobio, a Colombian fighter based in Canada with a record of 17-0 and 15 KOs, is trained by Marc Ramsay, who also trains former undisputed light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev. Orobio began fighting 10-rounders in June of last year and started 2026 with a brutal knockout of Yomar Alamo. With improving opposition, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for Orobio.

Ruslan Abdullaev

Ruslan Abdullaev, an Uzbek super lightweight with a 4-0 record and 2 KOs, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions. All four of his professional bouts have taken place in the United States. Abdullaev has already fought once this year and aims for a world title shot by his sixth fight. If this goal remains, the rest of 2026 could see him facing top contenders.

Carlos Utria

Carlos Utria, with a record of 14-0 and 11 KOs, had a memorable 2025 by winning the WBC Boxing Grand Prix after five fights in Saudi Arabia. This year holds great promise for the 22-year-old Colombian, who is expected to continue climbing the ranks in the super lightweight division.

As the year unfolds, these rising stars are sure to bring excitement and fresh energy to the super lightweight division. Keep an eye on them as they strive for greatness in 2026.