Born: 1985 (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Biography:
Melinda La Maravilla Cooper (born March 6, 1985, in Las Vegas, Nevada) is a renowned female boxer who held the titles of WIBA and IBA Flyweight Champion of the world. With exceptional skill and talent, she has established herself as one of the elite professional boxers on the planet and has made significant contributions to the sport. Cooper’s journey in boxing began in 1996 when she crossed paths with trainer James Pena at the Nevada Partners gym in Las Vegas.
Pena recalls their first encounter, where he mistook Cooper for a boy due to the hood of her coat covering her head. After offering the group of kids the opportunity to try boxing, Cooper expressed her interest in participating. Despite initially hesitating to let her train with the boys, Pena allowed her to join. On that first day, Cooper lasted four rounds and left a lasting impression on Pena. He had never trained a female boxer before, and her determination to compete with the boys impressed him.
Recognizing her potential, Pena became Cooper’s legal guardian and nurtured her boxing career. As an amateur boxer, Cooper amassed a remarkable record of 37-2, a rarity for female fighters, and achieved numerous national amateur championships. However, finding opponents willing to face Cooper became increasingly challenging, prompting her transition to the professional boxing arena. Cooper made history as the first female boxer under the age of 18 to receive a license in Nevada.
On March 23, 2002, at the age of 17, Cooper made her professional debut in Las Vegas. She secured a four-round unanimous decision victory over Annalisa Middleton, marking the commencement of her successful journey in the professional ranks. Throughout her career, Cooper has defeated every opponent she has faced, showcasing her exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.
Cooper’s crowning achievement came on January 14, 2005, in Rancho Mirage, California, where she claimed the vacant IBA and WIBA Flyweight World Titles. In a thrilling match, Cooper secured a ninth-round TKO victory over Anissa Zamarron, solidifying her place as a dominant force in women’s boxing. With a professional record of 20-0 and 11 knockouts, Cooper has established herself as a formidable and unbeaten fighter.
Beyond her remarkable boxing achievements, Cooper has garnered attention outside the ring. Her captivating personality and striking appearance have earned her features in renowned magazines such as Girls Life, Teen, and World Boxing. Cooper’s involvement in the boxing world has opened doors to endorsement opportunities and diverse experiences, further solidifying her impact on the sports and entertainment industries.
Melinda Cooper’s indomitable spirit, perseverance, and remarkable success have contributed significantly to the elevation of women’s boxing. By overcoming barriers and breaking records, she has inspired countless young female athletes to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Her enduring legacy in the world of boxing and her invaluable role in women’s history continue to inspire future generations of women to pursue their passions and challenge societal expectations.
Awards:
– WIBA Flyweight Champion
– IBA Flyweight Champion