What if we just don’t name Fighter of the Year?

BoxingScene argues that boxing media should consider leaving the 2026 Fighter of the Year award vacant due to a lack of standout candidates. The outlet notes that top contenders have either fought only once without delivering historic, career-defining performances or lack the resume depth required for the sport's highest individual annual honor.

Key candidates assessed include Naoya Inoue, Shakur Stevenson, David Benavidez, and Jaron Ennis, who each secured a single notable victory without further scheduled bouts. While Ryan Garcia fought and won twice against Mario Barrios and Conor Benn, and Emanuel Navarrete faces O'Shaquie Foster, the writer believes no male boxer has truly earned the honor.