History of Boxing News in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 14, 2026

Boxing News is a British boxing magazine. Notably, it is the oldest boxing magazine still in publication, highlighting its historical significance and longevity within the boxing media landscape.

1909: Boxing News Founded

In 1909, Boxing News was founded by Murray as editor, inspired by Jack Johnson's victory. Murray's first editorial expressed the paper's commitment to good, clean sport.

October 1931: Magazine Sold to Syndicate

In October 1931, Boxing News was sold to a syndicate of London sportsmen, who appointed Sydney Rushton as the new editor.

1935: Sydney Ackland becomes editor

In 1935, Sydney Ackland replaced Miller as editor of Boxing News. Ackland had previously worked as John Murray's assistant editor.

1941: Murray Steps Down Due to Ill Health

In 1941, Murray stepped down as editor of Boxing News due to ill health, and Gilbert Odd took over the position.

1971: Graham Houston Becomes Editor

In 1971, Graham Houston became the editor of Boxing News, broadening the range of coverage, especially in North America.

1977: Harry Mullan Becomes Editor

In 1977, Harry Mullan replaced Houston as editor of Boxing News, leading to an increase in circulation.

October 1996: Harry Mullan Leaves Boxing News

In October 1996, Harry Mullan left Boxing News and received a glowing tribute from publisher Peter Kravitz.

November 1996: Claude Abrams Succeeded Mullan

In November 1996, Claude Abrams succeeded Mullan as editor of Boxing News. The paper was redesigned, switched to a full-colour format, and became more extensive in content.

March 1999: Paper changes to A3 size

In March 1999 Boxing News changed to A3 in size before reverting to A4.

September 2005: Paper increases to 48 pages

In September 2005 Boxing News increased in length to 48 pages from 24.

December 2009: Abrams Leaves Boxing News

In December 2009, Claude Abrams left Boxing News after 22 years, and Tris Dixon succeeded him as editor.

December 2014: Dixon Leaves Boxing News

In December 2014, Tris Dixon left Boxing News, and Matt Christie took over as editor.

April 2023: Boxing News Acquired

In April 2023, a digital media group acquired Boxing News, merging it with the iD Boxing platform to create Boxing News Plus.

February 2024: Boxing News' Podcast Wins Award

In February 2024, Boxing News' podcast, The Boxing Show, won Best Combat Sports Podcast at the Sports Podcast Awards.

March 2024: Boxing News App Launched

In March 2024, Boxing News announced the launch of the Boxing News app, which merges a prediction league with live scorecard functionality.

April 2024: Mark Butcher Appointed Editor

In April 2024, Mark Butcher was announced as the new editor of Boxing News after the departure of Matt Christie.

December 18, 2025: Boxing News Ceases Weekly Publication

On December 18, 2025, Boxing News ceased to be a weekly publication after 116 years. The final weekly edition was published.

January 2026: Boxing News relaunches as Monthly Magazine

In January 2026, Boxing News relaunched as a monthly magazine, merging with and reviving the defunct Boxing Monthly magazine. Oliver Fennell was appointed editor.