Bio & Story
Early Life and Amateur Career:
Michael Hunter Jr. from Las Vegas, is the son of the late professional boxer Mike "The Bounty" Hunter. Growing up in a boxing family, Hunter quickly developed a passion for the sport. As an amateur, he achieved notable success, winning the National Championships as a super heavyweight in 2007 and 2009. He also secured a bronze medal at the Under-19 World Championships in Morocco in 2006 and qualified for the 2012 Olympics in the heavyweight division.
Professional Boxing Career:
Michael Hunter turned professional in March 2013, beginning his career with a third-round TKO victory over Chad Davis. His early professional journey was marked by an impressive 11-fight winning streak, showcasing his knockout power and boxing skill.
- First Title Fight: In April 2017, Hunter challenged Oleksandr Usyk for the WBO cruiserweight title in his first world title bout, resulting in a unanimous decision loss but highlighting his potential on a global stage.
- Key Fights: Notable victories in his career include defeating Martin Bakole in 2018, where Hunter showcased his ability to outbox a larger opponent, and securing wins against fighters like Alexander Ustinov and Sergey Kuzmin. His fight with Alexander Povetkin in 2019 ended in a split draw, one of the most entertaining bouts of the year.
- Recent Activity: Hunter's latest significant fight was against Cassius Chaney in June 2024, where he won by unanimous decision. His record stands at 23 wins, 1 loss, and 2 draws, with 16 of those wins coming by knockout.
Style and Strengths:
Known for his stamina, agility, and powerful right-hand punch, Hunter fights from an orthodox stance. His ability to maintain speed and agility throughout fights, combined with his boxing intelligence, makes him a formidable opponent in the heavyweight division.
Personal Life:
Michael Hunter is a father and keeps his personal life relatively private. He is an active user of social media, often sharing insights into his training and personal life. His career has been supported by various promotions, including a notable stint with Matchroom Boxing.
Future Prospects:
Currently ranked 3rd by the WBA at heavyweight, Hunter is eyeing major fights that could lead to another shot at a world title. Potential future opponents include Hughie Fury, Martin Bakole, and even high-profile names like Anthony Joshua.