Jack–Mikaelian II — the final cruiserweight verdict of 2025

On Saturday, December 13, 2025, Los Angeles hosts the long-awaited rematch between Badou Jack and Noel Mikaelian for the WBC Cruiserweight World Title. Their first meeting in Saudi Arabia ended in a debated majority decision, and the WBC ordered the immediate second bout to settle the question once and for all.

An unresolved first chapter

The May encounter produced split opinions among analysts and fans. Jack’s experience and late-round management convinced two judges, but Mikaelian’s output, pressure and consistency kept the scorecards tight. For months, the result hovered as one of the most contested of the year, prompting the governing body to mandate a clear, definitive rematch.

The December bout now carries the weight of closure: Jack wants to validate his championship status without debate; Mikaelian aims to prove that the first verdict was a missed call.

Momentum and recent form

Jack enters at 42 with a career spanning super middleweight, light heavyweight and cruiserweight success. His ring craft, pacing and shot selection remain his foundation, but many observers expect him to start faster than he did in Saudi Arabia.

Mikaelian arrives believing he had already done enough once. His pressure style, high activity and physical strength make him a demanding opponent over twelve rounds. His confidence stems from the rhythm he dictated in several stretches of the first fight.

The tactical landscape

Jack is likely to prioritise distance control and cleaner phases in the center of the ring, avoiding extended exchanges where Mikaelian’s volume becomes influential. Precision, pacing and timing could decide his night.

Mikaelian will pursue the same formula that troubled Jack months earlier: forward pressure, jab activity, and steady accumulation. His ability to cut the ring and force mid-range exchanges is expected to be central once again.

Fight week tone

Open workouts and press events in Los Angeles have alternated sporting hype with the social focus of the card, staged under the banner “Championing Mental Health 2”. Both fighters remained composed publicly, though neither has softened on their stance regarding the disputed result.

What to expect on Saturday

Odds reflect a tightly balanced contest: Mikaelian slightly favored for tempo and output; Jack respected for accuracy and big-moment control. The first bout went down to the wire — the second appears poised for another extended tactical duel unless one of them finds a decisive breakthrough.

Event information

Note: Article based solely on confirmed public information regarding fighters, scheduling and event structure.