5 super middleweights to watch out for in 2026

2026 has arrived, and we already have some intriguing matchups confirmed on the boxing schedule, with more rumoured in the next 12 months. Established stars will be looking to improve their legacies, while the next crop of fighters will look to make their mark. The super middleweight division was ruled by Canelo until his defeat against Terence Crawford, who has since retired. With the division wide open, here are five super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026.

Super middleweight Boxers to watch in 2026

The super middleweight division is now more open than ever, following the retirement of Terence Crawford. The titles have begun to fragment, with many about to receive their world title opportunity or more in the frame for a chance than ever before. Do you agree with our five super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026?

Lester Martinez

The first fighter on our list of super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026 is the relentless Guatemalan Lester Martinez (19-0-1, 16 KOs).

Martinez fought on the Canelo vs Terence Crawford undercard against Christian Mbilli. It was a brilliant back-and-forth clash that ended in a split draw decision. One judge scored it 97-93 for Martinez, while one had it 96-94 for Mbilli, and the final judge scored it 95-95. The WBC did order an immediate rematch, but Mbilli appears to be exploring other opportunities.

He carries plenty of power and is precise with his punches. Martinez is effective fighting at range or up close. His fight with Mbilli showed just how tough he is and what a dangerous opponent he is for anyone at 168lbs.

Jacob Bank

Jacob Bank (17-0, 9 KOs) is a 24-year-old Danish fighter competing in the super middleweight division. He picks his punches impressively and showcases good lateral movement, which helps him create angles to launch his attacks.

Bank enjoyed a good 2025, defeating Damian Biacho and Tyron Zeuge. The Dane will return to action on January 31, where he will face former world champion William Scull. Bank has the ability to go far.

Marco Romero

Marco Romero (11-0, 10 KOs) is the next name on our list of super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026. The Kansas native has yet to be signed up by a major promoter, but his performances in the ring suggest he won’t be waiting too long for a big deal. 

Romero was active in 2025, with seven fights, winning all by knockout. His left hook is a great weapon, while he doesn’t neglect his defensive skills and doesn’t get hit often. Romero finished 2025 competing at middleweight, but it remains to be seen whether he will move back up to 168lbs or stay at 160 lbs. 

While an unknown quantity to many, Romero looks set for a big 2026.

Osleys Iglesias

The next name on our list of super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026 is the big-punching Cuban Osleys Iglesias (14-0, 13 KOs).

He’s an aggressive front-foot fighter and a brutal finisher. He controls the distance well in his fights and doesn’t waste any punches. When he senses an opening, he normally gets it done in devastating fashion. As well as his punch power and Cuban footwork, his southpaw stance gives opponents something else to ponder.

Last time out, the Cuban stopped Vladimir Shishkin to win the eighth round, while in complete control of the bout.

The IBF recently ordered Iglesias vs Canelo for the vacant title, an opportunity the Mexican rejected. It looks likely that Iglesias vs Jaime Munguia will be made for the vacant IBF belt.

Taylor Bevan

The final name on our list of super middleweight boxers to watch in 2026 is the heavy-handed Southampton native Taylor Bevan (7-0, 7 KOs).

He was an impressive amateur, winning a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Bevan signed with Matchroom when turning professional, and he has passed every test with flying colours. Bevan has a heavy jab, which is effective at maintaining distance and disrupting opponents.

Bevan has one-punch power, but his composed nature when finishing fights is most impressive. When you watch Bevan, it’s important to notice he moves his head off the line, making it difficult for opponents to counter him.  He has plenty of support, and with the backing of Matchroom, he looks set for a big 2026.