Jason and Andrew Moloney fight for world title paths on 23 April 2026

Jason Moloney fights for the IBF Intercontinental title this Thursday, while Andrew Moloney prepares for a key IBF eliminator. This is a big week for the brothers as they aim to return to the top of boxing.
By Newsroom | Sports, Australia |

A SLOW ASCENT

Jason Moloney steps into the ring on Thursday night, facing Andre Donovan for the IBF Intercontinental bantamweight title. The fight, held at Brisbane's Fortitude Music Hall, represents a critical juncture for the Australian boxer. His declaration, "Your name under my belt is going to put me on that path to chase that world title that you're chasing right now," rings with more than just pre-fight bravado. For Moloney, this isn't mere rhetoric; it's a carefully calculated step towards regaining a world championship status. This bout is framed as a way to secure another significant victory on home ground, a key part of his strategy to propel himself back into the highest echelons of the sport.

Moloney's immediate focus is a tangible step up, aiming to add another notable victory to his record.

Read More: Lakers Lead Rockets 1-0 After Game 1 Win

ANDREW MOLONEY'S UNEXPECTED RETURN

Meanwhile, Andrew Moloney, the former super flyweight world champion, has orchestrated a remarkable comeback. Less than a year after a dramatic retirement, prompted by a contentious loss to Pedro Guevara for the interim WBC super flyweight title, Moloney finds himself back in contention. He has been officially ordered to face Argi Cortes of Mexico in an IBF eliminator bout. This positioning comes after Moloney reversed his retirement decision late last year and secured a victory over Jakrawut Majungoen in December. His manager, Tony Tolj, has voiced no apprehension regarding the integrity of Andrew's upcoming fights.

Andrew Moloney’s unretirement positions him for a potential world title shot, marking a swift return to relevance after a controversial defeat.

BACKGROUND: THE SHADOW OF CONTROVERSY

Andrew Moloney's return to the sport's forefront is a narrative interwoven with the lingering impact of a decision that led to his initial departure. The loss to Pedro Guevara, contested for an interim title, sparked an emotional reaction that culminated in a public retirement. His subsequent decision to continue fighting, and now to pursue another world title eliminator, underscores a resilience born from what appears to be an unfulfilled ambition and perhaps a desire to rectify past perceptions. The path back, particularly for someone who has walked away and returned, often carries an added weight of expectation and scrutiny.

Read More: Australia Buys 200 Million Litres of Diesel for Fuel Security

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Jason Moloney fighting Andre Donovan for the IBF title?
Jason Moloney will fight Andre Donovan this Thursday, 23 April 2026, at the Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane. This match is a key step for Jason to move back toward a world championship title.
Q: Why did Andrew Moloney decide to return to boxing after retiring?
Andrew Moloney returned to boxing to chase unfinished goals after a controversial loss to Pedro Guevara last year. He has since won a fight in December and is now set for an IBF eliminator against Argi Cortes.
Q: Who is Andrew Moloney fighting in his next IBF eliminator bout?
Andrew Moloney has been ordered to face Argi Cortes of Mexico in an IBF super flyweight eliminator. A win in this match would put him in a strong position to challenge for a world title again.
Q: How does the fight on 23 April 2026 help Jason Moloney?
Winning the IBF Intercontinental bantamweight title on Thursday will help Jason Moloney climb the rankings. It is a calculated move to prove he is ready to compete for a world championship belt.