5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce

Is enough being done to support boxers once they hang up the gloves? In this special programme, Stacey Copeland examines the realities fighters face when their careers end, from loss of identity to physical and mental challenges. Joined by Steve Bunce, former undisputed world champion Josh Taylor and leading trainer Dom Ingle, the discussion explores whether the sport is doing enough and what more can be done to help boxers prepare for life out of the ring. They also hear from Ricky Hatton's friend and manager, Paul Speak, Robert Smith of the BBBoC, and Queensberry boss Frank Warren.

Where does Dalton Smith’s world title win in New York rank among the greatest British performances overseas? Mike Costello joins Buncey to look back at some of the most iconic nights by a Brit abroad, from Lloyd Honeyghan to Tyson Fury. Plus, Dalton himself on the night, the fight, and what comes next.

Is this set to be Katie Taylor’s final year in the ring? Can Ellie Scotney take the final step and become undisputed? And will we finally see Lauren Price face Mikaela Mayer? Plenty for Buncey and Stacey Copeland to debate as they look ahead to what could be a huge and defining year for women’s boxing.

After everything we saw in 2025, can 2026 possibly match it? Barry Jones joins Buncey to look ahead to a busy year in boxing. They talk through the fights already on the books, the ones that still need to be made, and work their way through the weight divisions to pick out the match-ups they most want to see.

Awards season has arrived, and it’s time for the 5 Live boxing team to hand out their prizes for 2025. Buncey is joined by Barry Jones and Darren Barker to decide who takes fighter of the year, what was the standout event, and whether they can agree on anything at all. Six categories to get through from a year that will go down as one of boxing’s best.