On 4 October 2022, Joe Fournier posted a video on his Instagram page calling out Jake Paul, Logan Paul and KSI for not fighting 'real boxers'.[‡ 1] KSI opted choose MMA fighter Dillon Danis as his opponent for MF & DAZN: X Series 004.[5] Fournier however, was scheduled to face Tony Christodoulou on the undercard with Fournier acting as the replacement fighter in the case that Danis were to withdraw.[6] Unfortunately, Christodoulou failed an MRI scan thus canceling Fournier's bout on 14 January. On 4 January, Danis withdrew from the bout and was replaced by YouTuberFaZe Temperrr instead of Fournier due to Temperrr being a southpaw.[7] After KSI defeated Temperrrr, he and Fournier shared a stare down after the pair verbally agreed to face each other in May.[8]
On 22 March, it was announced that KSI would face Fournier on 13 May at Wembley Arena in London, England.[3] KSI defeated Fournier via KO in the 2nd round but was later overturned as a no contest after review shows KSI striking Fournier with his elbow.[9][10]
Controversies
KSI–Fournier elbow knockout
During the second round, KSI threw a right hook that missed, causing his elbow to strike Fournier, knocking him unconscious.[9] After the bout concluded, Fournier stated that he would appeal the decision.[11] On 15 May, the Professional Boxing Association (PBA) called for both fighters to make their cases and will be conducting a review with a decision to be made by 19 May at the latest.[12] On 19 May, the PBA officially overturned the victory and was ruled as a no contest.[13]
ViruZz illegal substance
On 4 August, it was announced that after an investigation conducted by the PBA, Spanish YouTuber ViruZz had tested positive for illegal substance use.[14] On the 7th of August, the PBA announced that ViruZz has received a two year suspension and will be fined £8,000. The bout was overturned and was ruled as a no contest.[15]
^Note 1 For MFB cruiserweight title ^Note 2 Cakey and Thresh's professional debut ^Note 3 ViruZz's professional debut ^Note 4 Bellsy and Kymchii's professional debut ^Note 5 1 minute rounds ^Note 6Exhibition bout ^Note 7 Exhibition bout ^Note 8 Exhibition bout ^Note 9 Exhibition bout ^Note 10 Ham's identity was revealed on the night and was marketed as a mystery opponent
