by
- What: WBC World Cruiserweight Title Fight
- Who: Norair Mikaelyan vs. Badou Jack
- Where: Ace Mission Studios, Los Angeles, CA
- When: Saturday, December 13 at 10:00 p.m. ET
WBC cruiserweight champion Badou Jack defends his title against Norair Mikaelyan in a highly anticipated rematch on December 13 at Ace Mission Studios in Los Angeles.
This sequel arrives seven months after their controversial first meeting in Riyadh, where Jack retained his belt via a narrow majority decision with scores of 115-113, 115-113, and 114-114.
The WBC ordered this immediate rematch following an appeal from Mikaelyan’s promoter, as many observers believed the challenger had done enough to win. Mikaelyan outlanded Jack 153 to 122 in total punches during their first encounter, leaving questions about who truly deserved the victory.
Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs), now 42, is a three-division world champion seeking to cement his legacy and reaffirm his place in the sport after a period of inactivity since winning the cruiserweight title in 2023.
On the other side, Mikaelyan (27-3, 12 KOs), 35, motivated by controversial defeats, is determined to prove he belongs among the division’s elite and to silence his critics.
Given that both fighters possess veteran savvy but limited knockout power in recent years, another tactical battle heading the distance is likely. In light of tighter judging scrutiny this time around, expect both men to push harder from the opening bell to avoid any scoring ambiguity.
Before we examine the odds, find everything you need to know to bet on boxing online and check out the best 2025 Boxing Betting Sites.
Norair Mikaelyan vs. Badou Jack
This rematch poses a fascinating stylistic puzzle.
| Winner |  |  |  |
| Norair Mikaelyan | -150 | -165 | -205 |
| Badou Jack | +120 | +135 | +155 |
Jack’s experience across three weight classes gives him a technical edge, but at 42, diminished reflexes and power leave him vulnerable to fighters who sustain volume over 12 rounds.
Mikaelyan’s path is his work rate. He showed in their first meeting that he can out-punch Jack by staying active. He must establish his jab early, control distance, and avoid long exchanges where Jack’s experience takes over. Winning the middle rounds is crucial, as judges often favor champions in close frames.
For Jack, ring generalship and selective aggression are key. He must pick his moments rather than engage in long firefights. His veteran instincts to steal rounds with late flurries could be decisive. Conditioning is vital—if Jack fades again, Mikaelyan can take over.
Badou Jack edged Noel Gevor Mikaelian by majority decision in their first clash. Now, they’re set for a rematch—who do you think really won that first fight? #Boxing pic.twitter.com/43PRAJAfrR
— BoxingGuru (@B0xingGuru) September 18, 2025
Judging location matters. Los Angeles, not Saudi Arabia, removes any perceived home edge, though Jack trains in Las Vegas and is well-known in American boxing. Both will likely be more aggressive this time, knowing they can’t rely on the judges.
If Mikaelyan maintains volume and discipline, he could win a close decision. Still, Jack’s pedigree and ability to win tight rounds make anything possible.
I would take Mikaelyan to win this rematch at -150.
Fight to Go the Distance
This matchup virtually guarantees a decision finish.
| Fight to go the Distance | | | |
| Yes | -250 | -250 | -250 |
| No | +175 | +175 | +175 |
Neither fighter has recorded a stoppage in years, and their first encounter’s cautious pace suggests both respect each other’s durability.
Jack’s last knockout came in 2019, while Mikaelyan hasn’t stopped an opponent since 2021. At cruiserweight, where both men moved up seeking opportunity rather than natural size advantages, their power hasn’t translated to finishing ability.
Rematch stakes reinforce a distance fight. Mikaelyan cannot risk reckless aggression that could open him to Jack’s counters, while Jack knows he can win rounds on points without unnecessary danger. Both are technical boxers, preferring steady scoring over hunting for knockouts.
It’s Fight Week, and the action is STACKED! 🔥 Alongside Canelo vs Scull, don't miss Badou Jack (28-3-3) defending his WBC World Cruiserweight Title against Noel Mikaelian (27-2) in Riyadh this Saturday, May 3rd! 🥊
Will Jack’s experience and power retain his title, or can… pic.twitter.com/vJrEZuBUum
— FTTV Boxing (@FTTVBoxing) April 28, 2025
Their combined age—77 years—matters. Veterans favor survival and scoring over risky exchanges. Neither has the stamina for sustained power punching, making a stoppage unlikely.
Championship rounds matter for scoring, but expect no late drama. The winner will be decided by the scorecards, not stoppage.
Smart bets target “fight goes to decision,” as both fighters’ styles, ages, and records favor a decision. It’s pricy but a very safe bet at -250.
See below the top offshore sportsbooks where you can wager online and choose the best one for you:
Sports Betting Sites 