5 Live Boxing with Costello & Bunce

Ade Oladipo, Emily Eubank, and Liam Gough return to give their unfiltered takes on the fight game in another punchy episode of The Punch Perfect Podcast on BBC Sounds! The gang steps straight into 'The Clinch' to take on a heated debate rocking modern combat sports. Producer Jay hands over the envelope, starting a strict three-minute timer for the hosts to dissect a contentious statement: "Crossover events do more harm than good for boxing." Is gimmick matchmaking pulling eyes away from true fighters, or does it bring a much-needed new audience to the sport? The trio has just one round to clash and reach a final decision. Next up, it's back to 'The Blueprint' to build the next vital piece of their Frankenstein GOAT. With George Foreman lock-in for power, Chris Eubank Senior taking heart and resilience, and marketability already checked off, the hosts turn their attention to pure skill: BOXING TECHNIQUE. This section is all about the sweet science, masterful defense, and ring intelligence. Ade, Emily, and Liam each bring three legendary technicians to the table for elimination rounds, battling it out to select the single ultimate master of technique to add to their ultimate fighter. Finally, the bell rings for 'The Final Round' as Ade steps forward with a spicy hot take on fighter welfare and weight cutting: "It is time to implement mandatory hydration testing or same-day weigh-ins." The panel weighs the extreme dangers of drastic weight cuts against the logistics of changing a system deeply ingrained in the sport. Expertly argued, sharp, and brutally honest—don't miss out! Subscribe to The Punch Perfect Podcast on BBC Sounds, leave your thoughts in the comments, and follow along as the Frankenstein GOAT takes shape!

Is there a more successful and more versatile man in boxing? For more than three decades, Russ Anber has been one of the sport's most respected and influential figures. A world-renowned trainer, cutman, hand wrapper, manager and proud member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, he has worked in the corners of countless world champions and been at the heart of some of boxing's biggest nights.Away from the corner, Anber is also the founder of Rival Boxing Gear, the company behind what has become the most widely used boxing glove in the world. His innovation has changed the sport just as much outside the ring as inside it.In this special episode, Buncey sits down with Anber to reflect on an extraordinary career that has taken him from humble beginnings to the very top of boxing. They discuss the fighters who have shaped his journey, the pressure and precision required to be one of the sport's finest cutmen and hand wrappers.

Ade Oladipo, Emily Eubank, and Liam Gough are back to put the boxing world to rights in another hard-hitting episode of The Punch Perfect Podcast on BBC Sounds! After a brief warning to expect a few passionate slip-ups of explicit language, the team dives straight into 'The Clinch' to confront one of the most critical safety debates in the sport today. Guided by producer Jay's envelope, the hosts start a strict three-minute timer to dissect the statement: "Trainers need to throw in the towel more often." Do corner teams protect their fighters enough, or does the warrior mentality of the sport stand in the way of vital safety decisions? The hosts have just one round to debate and reach a final verdict. Then, it's time to return to 'The Blueprint' to draft the next critical component of their Frankenstein GOAT. With the legendary power of George Foreman and the unbreakable heart of Chris Eubank Senior already secured in the first two episodes, the crew turns their attention to a highly lucrative attribute: MARKETABILITY. This segment is all about the unique ability to sell out stadiums, deliver legendary trash-talk soundbites, and put absolute bums on seats. Each host pitches their top three ultimate self-promoters and crowd-pullers from boxing history. Through fierce debate and elimination rounds, they must collectively agree on the single most marketable fighter to add to their growing masterpiece. Finally, the bell rings for 'The Final Round' as Ade steps up to present his controversial hot take on the current state of champion politics: "Undisputed belt holders shouldn't lose all their belts after one loss." The crew goes back and forth on whether the undisputed status should have its own safety net or if losing it all is simply the brutal reality of the squared circle. Unfiltered, highly opinionated, and packed with expert insight - this is the conversation every fight fan needs to hear. Subscribe to The Punch Perfect Podcast on BBC Sounds, leave your verdict in the comments, and don't miss a second of the build!

Is there a bigger fight in women's boxing than Mikaela Mayer v Chantelle Cameron? The pair top the MVP UK v USA card in Birmingham later this month, and former undisputed world champion Ellie Scotney joins Buncey to preview the huge night. She also reveals the rather extravagant gift Jake Paul has bought her. We also hear from Skye Nicolson after her move to the MVP stable and her addition to the Birmingham card. Caroline Dubois explains why she's swapped trainer Shane McGuigan for Manny Robles, while Mikaela Mayer, Chantelle Cameron and MVP co-founder Nikisa Bidarian all join the pod to look ahead to one of the biggest events in women's boxing this year.

To mark South Asian Heritage Month, Buncey is joined by former IBO world champion Jawaid Khaliq and the BBC's Kal Sajad to celebrate the South Asian community's contribution to British boxing. From the pioneers who broke down barriers to today's new generation of stars, they explore how British boxing has evolved and why South Asian representation in the sport is stronger than ever.The discussion looks back at trailblazers such as Amir Khan, who paved the way, the challenges they faced, and the lasting impact they've had on the sport both inside and outside the ring. We also hear from two of Britain's biggest boxing names, Hamzah Sheeraz and Adam Azim, who reflect on their heritage, their journeys to the top, and the responsibility they feel as role models for the next generation.This podcast has been edited since publication.

Ade, Emily, and Liam are back for another episode of The Punch Perfect Podcast, on their relentless mission to build the ultimate boxing machine: the Frankenstein GOAT! To start things off, the trio checks in on the fallout from last week's decisions. With their personal fighting nicknames (The Black Prince, The Hatman, and Miss Eubank) fully established, they recap their first official consensus: crown-funding their monster fighter with the legendary power of George Foreman. The action officially begins when they step into 'The Clinch' to tackle a highly controversial topic delivered straight from producer Jay's envelope: "Governing bodies should refuse licences to fighters over the age of 40!" With a strict three-minute round on the clock, the panel debates the safety, legacy, and commercial appeal of over-40 legends, reflecting on iconic veteran runs from the likes of Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Mike Tyson, Bernard Hopkins, and Shannon Briggs. Will the team reach a unanimous decision, or are we headed for a split decision on whether age is just a number in the ring? Then comes 'The Blueprint' to piece together the next crucial element of their Frankenstein GOAT. This week's attribute up for debate is the mental and spiritual core of any true champion: Heart, Resilience, and Warrior Spirit. But what does having a "warrior spirit" actually mean? Then, it's time to dive headfirst into the dark side of the sport, debating whether the consequences for drug cheats in boxing are simply not harsh enough, or whether influencer boxing is ultimately good or bad for the game. It's honest, unfiltered, and deeply passionate boxing talk. Subscribe to The Punch Perfect Podcast on BBC Sounds, leave your thoughts in the comments, and help us build the ultimate fighter!

Does the Joshua-Fury fight still whet the appetite after watching both men in action this weekend? Barry Jones joins Buncey after they watched Anthony Joshua climb off the canvas twice before stopping Kristian Prenga in the second round. They discuss what AJ's performance means for a potential showdown with Fury, and we also hear from Joshua himself as Buncey catches up with him in the ring moments after the fight.

Tyson Fury has done his bit, now it's over to Anthony Joshua. Carl Frampton joins Buncey after Fury's win in Thailand, while AJ weighs in ahead of his fight with Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia. They discuss Joshua's final face-off with his opponent, what they made of his demeanour, and whether the long-awaited showdown with Fury is now within touching distance. Plus, we hear from someone who was ringside in Pattaya for Fury's victory.

Will Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury both come through unscathed this weekend? Natasha Jonas and Joe Gallagher join Buncey to preview the fights in Saudi Arabia and Thailand, discuss what kind of Anthony Joshua we can expect to see back in the ring, and debate where the long-awaited fight between the pair should take place. Joe also doesn't pull any punches with his verdict on today's heavyweight division. Plus, we hear from both fighters and Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn.

Welcome to the very first episode of The Punch Perfect Podcast, your new favourite boxing show!Join hosts Emily Eubank, Ade Oladipo, and Liam Gough as they kick off their ultimate mission: attempting to engineer the ultimate fighter. A "Frankenstein GOAT" of boxing.But before serious punches are thrown, we step right into 'The Clinch' for a no-punches-pulled look at the sport. The producers have handed them an envelope containing a massive debate topic: "Fighters would rather retire a millionaire than be a Zuffa belt holder." With the clock ticking down a single three-minute round, the three tackle the dilution of championship belts, whether fighters are chasing clout over legacy, and if the entry of organisations like Zuffa will bring clarity or total chaos.They then get down to business in 'The Blueprint'; the heart of the show where they must collectively build their Frankenstein fighter. The attribute on the operating table is pure, unadulterated power. Each host champions up to three heavy-hitting fighters from history; who holds the absolute gold standard for the most devastating power? Can they reach a unanimous decision, or will it end in a split decision?Then for the final round, Em, Ade and Liam tackle the wild world of crossover boxing: how long will it be before we see a woman take on a man in a fight?

What was Anthony Joshua's defining victory? Which defeat left the deepest scar? Buncey is joined by Richie Woodhall to relive the ten fights that defined AJ's career. From world-title glory and unforgettable knockouts to the setbacks that changed everything, they decide which moments shaped one of Britain's greatest heavyweights.

It's been a hectic few weeks in the heavyweight division since Oleksandr Usyk vacated his world titles, giving Buncey and Barry plenty to get stuck into. They assess Murat Gassiev's first defence of his WBA heavyweight crown, discuss the bizarre ending to Joe Joyce's comeback fight and whether it's finally time for him to call it a day. They also debate the potential venues for the long-awaited Anthony Joshua v Tyson Fury showdown, with Barry making a passionate case for Cardiff, before looking at where the rest of the heavyweight titles could end up. Plus, they give their verdict on reports that Usyk could face Deontay Wilder in what may be his final fight.

What can we expect from Team England at the Commonwealth Games? Buncey heads to Sheffield to catch up with head coach Rob McCracken as the squad puts the finishing touches to its preparations for Glasgow. McCracken explains why he has selected this team and picks out the boxers to watch, while Buncey also sits down with European U23 Champion Damar Thomas and reigning U19 world champion Ruby White.

What has been the fight of the year so far? Which performance stood out above all the rest? And what has been boxing's lowest moment of 2026? Tony Bellew and Carl Frampton join Buncey to review the first six months of the year, debating the biggest talking points and the British world champions who have made their mark. They also ask whether anything will top the epic heavyweight battle between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois in Manchester.

Is Filip Hrgovic a step too far, too soon for Moses Itauma? Buncey sits down with the heavyweight prospect to discuss the biggest fight of his career so far, whether he's getting the recognition he feels he deserves, and why he believes he's ready for the challenge. We also hear from his manager, Francis Warren, and from Hrgovic himself.

Is Ryan Garner ready to take the next step and mix it with the elite of the super-featherweight division? The Southampton fighter takes on Italy's Michael Magnesi for the interim WBC super-featherweight title at St Mary's Stadium this Saturday. Garner joins Buncey to reflect on his journey so far, the setbacks and frustrations he's had to overcome, and why he believes now is the time to prove he belongs at world level.

Will Croke Park ever see a bigger night than the one that awaits Katie Taylor when she steps into the ring for one final time? Buncey sits down with Katie to reflect on her remarkable journey, the long road to finally bringing this event to life, and what retirement might hold when the gloves are eventually hung up. We also hear from her manager, Brian Peters, who reveals how the team got the historic occasion over the line.

What does Dana White really think about Eddie Hearn, boxing's sanctioning bodies and the reaction to him getting involved in the sport? Buncey sits down with the boss of Zuffa Boxing to find out. White doesn't hold back as he gives his honest take on boxing, the people who run it and the changes he thinks the sport needs. It's a candid, outspoken and at times controversial chat with a man who's not scared of ruffling a few feathers.

What can we expect from AJ as he returns to the ring in July? Buncey sits down with the former two-time heavyweight world champion ahead of his comeback fight against Kristian Prenga in Jeddah. Joshua opens up on coping with the tragic loss of two close friends in Lagos last December, while promoter Eddie Hearn shares the latest on AJ's future plans. Former world champion Darren Barker also joins us with his analysis on what we can expect when Joshua steps back into the ring.

Will Rico Verhoeven get the apology he's after? The Dutchman and his team have lodged an official protest over the controversial ending to the fight in Egypt. Rico joins us to explain why they decided to take action, looks back on that unforgettable night, and reveals he's hoping to be back in the ring again before the end of the year.

Should Rico Verhoeven feel hard done by? Richie Woodhall joins Buncey to dissect a dramatic night in the desert as Oleksandr Usyk controversially stopped the Dutchman in the 11th round. We hear from Verhoeven himself, as well as his trainer Peter Fury, after a fight that's already sparked huge debate.

How will Rico Verhoeven cope against the best boxer on the planet? Richie Woodhall joins Buncey to break down the fight and explain what makes Oleksandr Usyk so dangerous. They also discuss the undercard and hear from Hamzah Sheeraz and Richard Torres Jr.

What kind of challenge will Rico Verhoeven pose to Oleksandr Usyk? That's just one of the questions Buncey puts to Eddie Hearn as they sit down ahead of Saturday night's fight. We hear from both fighters on what they're expecting in the ring, while four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen gives an insight into his fellow Dutchman and close friend.

How will a kickboxing world champion fare against one of the greatest heavyweights of all time? That's the question Buncey puts to Olympic bronze medallist Frazer Clarke as the pair look ahead to this weekend's spectacular showdown beneath the Egyptian pyramids between Rico Verhoeven and Oleksandr Usyk. Plus, they reflect on Dave Allen's defeat to Filip Hrgovic, while Frazer gives an update on his own career after his narrow loss to Justis Huni.

Can Dave Allen really beat Filip Hrgovic? The White Rhino returns to the ring in Doncaster this Saturday and sits down with Buncey ahead of the biggest fight of his career. They look back at the brutal defeat to Arslanbek Makhmudov, why Allen believes he's never been in better shape, and what victory over Hrgovic would mean. Plus, we hear from his trainer Jamie Moore.

Has there been a better heavyweight fight on British soil? Daniel Dubois is a two-time world champion after stopping Fabio Wardley in the 11th round of a brutal and unforgettable scrap in Manchester. Richie Woodhall joins Buncey to break down a fight that will live long in the memory. They hear from Dubois, his father Stan, trainer Don Charles and promoter Frank Warren.

Can Fabio Wardley make a successful first defence of his WBO heavyweight world title, or will Daniel Dubois become a two-time world champion? Ahead of Saturday night's massive all-British showdown in Manchester, Richie Woodhall joins Buncey to break down where the fight will be won and lost, the key tactical battles, and which fighter has the edge.

Can Frank Warren really stay neutral when two of his fighters are battling it out for the world heavyweight title? Buncey sits down with the Queensberry boss to get his thoughts ahead of Saturday night's huge dust-up, plus they discuss Arsenal's hopes of getting the job done in Budapest in a few weeks' time. We also hear from Daniel Dubois' manager and advisor, Sam Jones.

Can Daniel Dubois become a two-time heavyweight world champion? He certainly believes he can, as he sits down with Buncey ahead of Saturday's huge fight with Fabio Wardley. Dubois discusses his preparations and why he feels he can reclaim a world title. We also hear from his trainer Don Charles, who explains why he believes Dubois is stronger, sharper and ready to prove himself.

Can Fabio Wardley make a successful first defence of his WBO heavyweight world title? Buncey sits down with Wardley ahead of Saturday's fight with Daniel Dubois to discuss the pressure, preparation and what's at stake. Plus, we hear from his long-time coach, Rob Hodgins, who offers a unique insight into the fighter.

Will we see a better 24 hours of boxing all year? Buncey and Barry aren't convinced, as they reflect on a huge weekend in Tokyo, Vegas and Wolverhampton. Plus, reaction from Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn and a look ahead to Wardley v Dubois in Manchester this Saturday.

When's Adam Azim getting his world title shot? And is Lauren Price really set to take on Claressa Shields? Buncey puts it all to Boxxer CEO Ben Shalom in a wide-ranging chat. They also talk Frazer Clarke, Martin Bakole and Richard Riakporhe. Plus, find out why Belfast was chosen to host his stag do!

How clinical was Ben Whittaker? Richie Woodhall and Buncey break down his first-round stoppage of Braian Suarez in Liverpool, with reaction from Whittaker, Eddie Hearn and Andy Lee. Plus, they look back at the other fights on the undercard.

Will the hype around Ben Whittaker translate into the ring? He takes on Braian Suarez in Liverpool on Saturday night, and Buncey catches up with him after the weigh-in. We also hear from Matchroom's Frank Smith and his trainer Andy Lee, while chief support Molly McCann also joins Buncey for a chat.

Can a kickboxer with just one pro boxing fight really become heavyweight champion of the world? That's exactly what Rico Verhoeven is aiming to do as he prepares to face Oleksandr Usyk in front of the pyramids of Egypt this May. Buncey speaks to both fighters, as well as Verhoeven's trainer Peter Fury and promoter, Eddie Hearn.

Are we getting closer to Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua? The Gypsy King beat Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and then called out AJ. Natasha Jonas joins Buncey to chat about the fight and how likely it is we'll actually see it happen. We also hear from Fury's manager Spencer Brown and promoter Frank Warren, plus some thoughts from Moses Itauma.

Has Tyson Fury still got it? Barry Jones joins Buncey to preview the Gypsy King's return after 16 months away. Will it help or hinder? Plus, insight from former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis, and a look ahead to the rest of the card, including Conor Benn vs Regis Prograis.

What version of Tyson Fury will turn up this weekend? The Gypsy King returns after 16 months out and sits down with Buncey to discuss his fight with Arslanbek Makhmudov, his desire to face Anthony Joshua next, and why he believes he's in the shape of his life. Plus, we hear from Conor Benn ahead of his fight with Regis Prograis. And former world champion David Haye gives us his take on Saturday night's fight.

Did we just witness one of the greatest women's fights ever? Buncey and Stacey certainly think so after watching Ellie Scotney crowned undisputed super-bantamweight world champion at Olympia. They hear from an emotional Scotney and her trainer, Shane McGuigan. Plus, they look back at the other three fights on the card, hearing from Caroline Dubois and Chantelle Cameron, while MVP's Nikisa Bidarian reflects on a historic night.

Is Derek Chisora calling time on boxing as a cult hero? Richie Woodhall joins Buncey as Del Boy says no more after losing a split decision to Deontay Wilder. They hear from both fighters.

Will Ellie Scotney become the youngest UK boxer in the four-belt era to go undisputed? Who comes out on top as Caroline Dubois and Terri Harper meet in a world title unification? And how will Chantelle Cameron fare over three-minute rounds? Buncey speaks to all the fighters ahead of Sunday's all-women's card at Olympia, and sits down with MVP CEO Nakisa Bidarian to discuss his vision for women's boxing.

Will it be Derek Chisora or Deontay Wilder getting their hand raised on Saturday night? Ahead of what could be their final fights, Buncey sits down with both fighters, plus promoter Kalle Sauerland.