Born: 1963 (Chester, Pennsylvania)
Biography:
Fredia The Cheetah Gibbs, born on July 8, 1963, in Chester, Pennsylvania, is an American former professional martial artist, kickboxer, and boxer who competed from 1975 to 2005. With an illustrious career spanning three decades, Gibbs left an indelible mark on combat sports, becoming one of the most dominant champions in the history of kickboxing and a prominent figure in women’s athletics.
Before her kickboxing career, Gibbs displayed exceptional talent in basketball and track and field. She excelled as an All-American athlete during her time at Chester High School, where she earned her famous nickname, The Cheetah, due to her astonishing speed on the track. Recognizing her outstanding abilities, Chester High School even named their track team Chester’s Cheetahs in her honor.
Continuing her athletic pursuits, Gibbs went on to attend Temple University in Philadelphia, where she received two athletic scholarships, one for basketball and one for track. Later, she transferred to Cabrini University, where she played basketball on a scholarship and majored in marketing. Her skills on the court were widely acknowledged, earning her the distinction of being selected as a Kodak All-American in basketball for three consecutive years.
Gibbs’ journey into martial arts began at Quiet Storm Martial Arts School in Chester, Pennsylvania, where she enrolled to rebuild her self-confidence and self-esteem after enduring bullying. Under the guidance of a group of accomplished martial artists, including lawyers, judges, doctors, and business leaders, Gibbs discovered her passion for Jeet Kune Do/Aikido fight style. Throughout her high school and college years, she trained and competed at Quiet Storm, winning three world championships in Tae Kwon Do, with her final victory coming against an undefeated champion from Puerto Rico in St. Petersburg, Florida.
In 1991, Fredia Gibbs made history by becoming the first African-American female Kickboxing ISKA World Champion. Dubbed The Most Dangerous Woman in the World, her reputation grew exponentially after a monumental upset in 1994. In what was billed as the Battle of the Masters Pay Per View event in San Jose, California, Gibbs faced off against World Champion Valérie Wiet-Henin of France. Against all odds, Gibbs emerged victorious, leaving an everlasting impression on the combat sports community.
Known for her lightning-fast strikes and impeccable technique, Gibbs went on to become a dominant force in kickboxing. Over the course of her kickboxing career, she held ISKA, WKA, and WKF World Titles. In the super lightweight and light weight divisions, she reigned supreme, amassing an extraordinary record of 16 wins, 0 losses, and 15 knockout victories.
Not content with her success in kickboxing, Gibbs transitioned to women’s professional boxing in 1997. Competing as a top contender until her retirement in 2005, she showcased her versatility and resilience. With a record of 9 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, Gibbs proved herself as a formidable opponent in the boxing ring as well.
Beyond her impressive accomplishments as an athlete, Fredia Gibbs has become an influential motivational figure, inspiring countless individuals to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams. Her resilience and determination in the face of challenges have solidified her position as a role model for young women in particular.
In 2016, Gibbs released The Fredia Gibbs Story, a book recounting her remarkable life journey. Through her autobiography, she shares her experiences and insights, captivating readers with her gripping narrative and empowering message.
Fredia Gibbs’ legacy remains etched in the annals of sports history. Her groundbreaking achievements in kickboxing, along with her contribution to women’s athletics, have had a lasting impact. As a pioneer for African-American women in combat sports, she shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of athletes to assert themselves on the world stage.
Awards:
– ISKA World Kickboxing Champion
– WKA World Kickboxing Champion
– WKF World Kickboxing Champion