Boxing has always thrived on drama, rivalries, and the rise of champions who define eras. Among the most exciting weight divisions in modern boxing is the junior middleweight division, also known as super welterweight, contested at 154 pounds. Over the years, this weight class has produced some of the sport’s most memorable champions, epic rivalries, and jaw-dropping fights.
Today, the division is buzzing with activity. Established names are defending their legacies, while hungry contenders fight to climb the ladder. With so much talent, the junior middleweight rankings are constantly shifting making this one of boxing’s most unpredictable divisions.
This guide breaks down the top fighters, the historical significance of the weight class, current rivalries shaping the sport, and what the future might hold.
Why the Junior Middleweight Division Matters
Unlike heavyweight or welterweight, which tend to get the lion’s share of attention, the junior middleweight division quietly produces some of the most technical, hard-fought matchups in boxing. Why does it matter?
- Stylistic clashes: Fighters at 154 lbs are big enough to pack knockout power but still light enough to bring speed and agility. This creates high-paced, technical battles.
- Pathway division: It’s often the middle ground for boxers moving up from welterweight (147 lbs) or moving down from middleweight (160 lbs), making it a hub for crossover stars.
- History of classics: Legendary fighters like Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, and Oscar De La Hoya all fought in this range.
- Global representation: The division consistently showcases talent from across the globe from the U.S. and Australia to Latin America, Russia, and beyond.
For promoters, networks, and fans, junior middleweight remains a breeding ground for future pound-for-pound stars.
Current Junior Middleweight Rankings (2025 Update)
(Rankings are based on recent performances, belts held, and overall résumé. They reflect a balanced view of the division as of 2025.)
1. Jermell Charlo (USA)
- Record: 35-2-1 (19 KOs)
- Career Highlight: Became undisputed junior middleweight champion in 2022 by unifying all four major belts.
- Analysis: Charlo’s reign was dominant, with decisive wins over top names like Brian Castaño and Tony Harrison. Even after his attempt at higher weight classes, his résumé at 154 lbs remains unmatched. The big question: can he return to defend his crown, or will the younger generation surpass him?
2. Tim Tszyu (Australia)
- Record: 25-1 (17 KOs)
- Belt Held: WBO world champion
- Strengths: Aggressive pressure, sharp counterpunching, granite chin.
- Analysis: As the son of Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, Tim carried enormous expectations. But he has stepped out of his father’s shadow by carving his own legacy, taking on world-class opponents and becoming a household name in Australia. He’s eager to prove himself as the global face of the division, possibly through unification fights with Charlo or Fundora.
3. Sebastian Fundora (USA)
- Record: 22-1-1 (15 KOs)
- Nickname: “The Towering Inferno” (6’5” tall at 154 lbs)
- Style: High-volume, inside-fighting despite his lanky frame.
- Analysis: Fundora is a spectacle in the division, a towering figure who overwhelms opponents with relentless pressure. While his aggressive style has backfired at times, he remains one of the most dangerous and entertaining fighters in the rankings.
4. Erickson Lubin (USA)
- Record: 26-2 (18 KOs)
- Style: Southpaw boxer-puncher.
- Analysis: Once considered a hot prospect, Lubin bounced back from early setbacks with improved discipline and skill. His win over Jesus Ramos Jr. put him firmly back in title contention.
5. Israil Madrimov (Uzbekistan)
- Record: 10-0-1 (7 KOs)
- Background: Decorated amateur career; now turning heads as a professional.
- Analysis: Madrimov is still relatively new to the professional ranks but already looks like a future champion. His slick boxing skills, athleticism, and ring IQ make him one of the division’s brightest prospects.
6. Magomed Kurbanov (Russia)
- Record: 25-0 (13 KOs)
- Strengths: Technical, patient, difficult to outpoint.
- Analysis: Kurbanov remains undefeated and has proven difficult to beat in tight contests. While he hasn’t yet secured a marquee name on his record, his consistency keeps him ranked among the top fighters.
7. Jesus Ramos Jr. (USA)
- Record: 20-1 (16 KOs)
- Profile: Young, powerful, aggressive.
- Analysis: At just 23, Ramos has already tested himself against seasoned opposition. His lone loss hasn’t derailed his career; instead, it highlighted areas for growth. With his youth and power, he’s one to watch in the next 3–5 years.
8. Brian Castaño (Argentina)
- Record: 18-1-2 (12 KOs)
- Career Highlight: Former WBO champion; fought Jermell Charlo to a draw in 2021.
- Analysis: Known for his relentless pace and volume punching, Castaño remains a tough outing for anyone at 154 lbs. While not currently holding a belt, his pedigree keeps him in the top 10.
9. Charles Conwell (USA)
- Record: 18-0 (13 KOs)
- Analysis: Undefeated and dangerous, Conwell is one of the division’s best-kept secrets. He’s avoided mainstream attention so far but is primed for a breakout year. His combination of power and technique makes him a future title contender.
10. Tony Harrison (USA)
- Record: 29-4-1 (21 KOs)
- Career Highlight: Defeated Jermell Charlo in 2018 for the WBC belt.
- Analysis: Harrison is a veteran of the division. While age and past losses have slowed his momentum, his experience and boxing IQ still make him a dangerous fighter.
Key Storylines Shaping the Rankings
The Charlo Comeback Question
Jermell Charlo’s future at 154 is uncertain. Can he reclaim his dominance after moving up in weight, or has the division passed him by?
Tszyu’s Road to Legacy
Tim Tszyu has established himself as a champion but will he unify titles or be remembered as a regional star? His ability to defeat U.S.-based fighters could cement his global reputation.
Fundora’s Unfinished Business
Fans love Fundora’s high-risk, high-reward style. But can he fix his defensive lapses to become a long-term champion?
Historical Greats of the Junior Middleweight Division
To understand today’s rankings, it’s important to remember the legends who came before:
- Thomas “Hitman” Hearns: Known for his devastating knockout power at 154.
- Oscar De La Hoya: Unified titles at junior middleweight in some of boxing’s biggest events.
- Floyd Mayweather Jr.: Fought and won at 154, adding to his legacy with wins over De La Hoya and Canelo Alvarez.
- Canelo Alvarez: Started his run toward superstardom as a champion at junior middleweight.
These fighters set the bar high for today’s contenders.
FAQs
What weight is junior middleweight in boxing?
Junior middleweight (super welterweight) is contested at 154 pounds (69.85 kg).
Who is the best fighter at junior middleweight right now?
Many still regard Jermell Charlo as the top name based on résumé, but Tim Tszyu and Sebastian Fundora are pushing for the crown.
Who is the youngest rising star?
Charles Conwell (18-0) and Xander Zayas (21-0) are considered the brightest young prospects.
Has there been an undisputed champion?
Yes, Jermell Charlo unified all four belts in 2022, becoming the undisputed champion at 154 lbs.
Why are rankings different across sites?
Rankings are subjective. Some sites prioritize championships, others emphasize recent performances or “pound-for-pound” potential.
Conclusion
The junior middleweight rankings represent one of boxing’s most competitive landscapes. Every fight in this division feels like a proving ground, with no easy nights for champions or challengers. With global stars like Tszyu, established names like Charlo, and hungry contenders like Madrimov and Conwell, the future looks bright.
For boxing fans, keeping track of 154 lbs means watching a division where champions are made, legends are tested, and rivalries fuel unforgettable nights. If history is any indicator, the next few years will deliver thrilling fights that shape the sport’s future.
