5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce

In the first episode of this four-part series, Anna Woolhouse and Steve Bunce revisit the origins of boxing's defining rivalry. It begins with a chance sparring session between a young Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua at Finchley ABC in 2010, before following their very different paths to the top of the heavyweight division.
From Joshua's rapid rise from novice boxer to Olympic champion, to Fury's unconventional journey from travelling fighting family to world champion, this is the story of two men heading towards the same destination by completely different routes. Two future superstars. One rivalry in the making.
Presenters: Anna Woolhouse and Steve Bunce
Writer: Tom Fuller
Producer: Jesse Howard
Assistant Producer: Chloe Dell
Exec Producers: Kristian Read and Sarah Cook
Commissioning Editor: Stevie Middleton

It may not have been pretty, but Britain has a new world champion! Barry Jones joins Buncey in Manchester after watching Willy Hutchinson beat Joshua Buatsi to claim the vacant WBC light-heavyweight world title. They break down the fight, hear from the new champion and discuss what lies ahead for both men. Plus, they reflect on Chev Clarke’s seventh-round stoppage victory over Chris Billam-Smith in London.

Was that vintage Canelo as he defeated Christian Mbilli to claim the WBC super-middleweight title? Barry Jones joins Buncey to reflect on the action in Riyadh and discuss what the Mexican has learned since his defeat to Terence Crawford. They also turn their attention to Manchester, where Joshua Buatsi and Willy Hutchinson meet in an all-British world title fight. Barry explains why he’s been left somewhat disappointed by the 2016 Olympian. And could Chris Billam-Smith against Chev Clarke in London prove to be the fight of the night?

Is Dalton Smith pound-for-pound the best British fighter this year? Richie Woodhall and Buncey dissect his WBC Super Lightweight world title defence against Alberto Puello in Sheffield. Dalton Smith reacts to coming through a difficult first defence. Plus, Eddie Hearn gives his verdict on whether there could be a Hillsborough homecoming for Dalton in 2027.

Is Dalton Smith facing one of the toughest homecomings in boxing history? Richie Woodhall joins Buncey to preview Smith’s first defence of his super lightweight world title against Alberto Puello. Dalton himself joins the pod to reflect on his unforgettable title-winning night in New York and the challenge that lies ahead. We also hear from Leo Atang, one of Britain’s brightest young heavyweight prospects. And with the dust finally settling on Daniel Dubois’ devastating victory over Fabio Wardley, did Wardley’s decision to take the rematch so soon prove a costly mistake?