BOXING has always been as much about spectacle as it is about sport. The drama of two fighters entering the boxing ring has long been amplified by music, lights, costumes, and pageantry.
While some champions prefer to stalk into the ring with stoic determination, others have seized the moment to showcase their flair, charisma, and personality before throwing a single punch.
Of course, the choice of a boxing walkout song is a big part of the journey down to the ring, but below, we take a look at those fighters who have gone a step further in creating a truly memorable entrance.
Prince Naseem Hamed – The King of Theatrics
When it comes to flamboyant entrances, no one embodied the art more than “Prince” Naseem Hamed. Known for his swagger and unorthodox fighting style, Naseem turned his walkouts into full-scale productions.
He famously entered the ring to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” dressed as a vampire, rode into arenas on flying carpets, and even danced his way down to the ring with elaborate choreography. Hamed’s entrances were extensions of his showmanship, half mind games, half entertainment, and remain some of the most memorable in boxing lore.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. – Extravagance and Celebrity
Few fighters embraced spectacle quite like Floyd “Money” Mayweather. From bringing Justin Bieber, Lil Wayne, and 50 Cent to accompany him, to entering in gladiator costumes, Mayweather turned his ring walks into red-carpet events.
For his bout against Oscar De La Hoya in 2007, Mayweather arrived in a lavish sombrero and Mexican-themed attire, mocking his opponent. The theatrics always added to his persona, a man who thrived on attention, extravagance, and controversy.
Deontay Wilder – The Bronze Bomber’s Battle Armour
Heavyweight knockout artist Deontay Wilder brought a new level of pageantry with his elaborate costumes. Known for donning warrior-like masks, capes, and suits of armour, Wilder transformed his entrances into dramatic displays of intimidation.
His most talked-about entrance came before his rematch with Tyson Fury in 2020, when he wore a 40-pound LED-lit armoured suit. Though the outfit later sparked controversy, it solidified Wilder’s place among the most theatrical entrants in boxing history.
Tyson Fury – The Gypsy King’s Showbiz Flair
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Tyson Fury has crafted some unforgettable ring entrances. He has arrived on a throne carried by attendants, danced his way into the arena dressed as Apollo Creed, and even sang Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” after fights. Fury’s entrances are part humour, part theatre, and always a reflection of his larger-than-life personality.
Manny Pacquiao – The Pop Idol Entrance
While usually humble, Manny Pacquiao once leaned into spectacle by singing his own entrance song. Pacquiao, a music star in the Philippines, serenaded himself into the ring during one of his Las Vegas fights, drawing both amusement and admiration. It showcased his versatility as not just a fighter but an entertainer beloved by millions.
Why Flamboyant Entrances Matter
Flamboyant entrances do more than entertain; they set the psychological tone of a fight. They can intimidate opponents, electrify the crowd, and create moments that transcend the sport. In an era where boxing competes with other forms of entertainment, a dramatic entrance can elevate a fighter into pop-culture legend.
From Prince Naseem’s acrobatics to Wilder’s armoured spectacle, flamboyant entrances remain one of boxing’s most colourful traditions. After all, the fight begins the moment a boxer takes that first step toward the ring.
