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Jackie Kallen is a pioneering female manager in the world of boxing. Her inspiring life story, from a show business journalist to a sports journalist, has garnered attention and recognition. Despite facing challenges and controversies throughout her career, Kallen’s resilience and dedication have left an indelible mark in the history of boxing.
Nicola Adams, born in Leeds on October 26, 1982, overcame humble beginnings to become a groundbreaking boxer. She made history as the first female boxer to win an Olympic gold medal at London 2012 and went on to defend her title at Rio 2016, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in women’s boxing. Adams’s achievements on the Olympic stage have inspired countless female athletes and elevated the status of women’s boxing.
Gina “Boom Boom” Guidi, born on May 19, 1962, in California, is a professional female boxer hailing from San Francisco. Throughout her career, she has showcased her strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to the sport, earning her the reputation as a true champion inside and outside the ring. Guidi’s impact on the world of boxing and her contributions to society extend far beyond her accolades, making her an influential figure in women’s history.
Elena A. Reid, born in 1981 in Phoenix, Arizona, displayed a passion for sports from a young age. She excelled in soccer, karate, and boxing, even winning the Arizona State Kickboxing Title at the age of 17. Throughout her career in both boxing and mixed martial arts, Reid’s determination and tenacity set her apart as a formidable opponent.
Belinda Laracuente (born 1980) is a women’s boxing competitor from Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, where she lived from 1989 to 1998. Known by her nickname “Brown Sugar,” Laracuente made a name for herself in the world of professional boxing. Laracuente’s career had its ups and downs, with notable victories and defeats along the way. Despite her setbacks, she remained determined and resilient throughout her boxing journey.
Aileen LeBell Eaton, born on February 5, 1909, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, was a prominent figure in the boxing and professional wrestling industry. She had a remarkable career as a promoter, spanning over five decades, and played a significant role in shaping the west coast’s boxing and wrestling scene.
Laila Ali, daughter of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, is widely regarded as one of the greatest female boxers of all time. She achieved remarkable success during her boxing career, retiring undefeated and holding multiple titles. Beyond her athletic achievements, Ali has become a symbol of female empowerment and resilience, inspiring countless young girls to pursue their dreams.
Giselle Salandy was a Trinidadian professional boxer who became an undefeated unified light middleweight world champion. Her early life was marked by tragedy, but she discovered her passion for boxing at the age of eleven. Salandy faced numerous challenges in her career, but her impact on the sport cannot be overstated. Despite her untimely death, her legacy continues to inspire aspiring female boxers worldwide.
Regina Halmich, born on November 22, 1976, in Germany, is a professional boxer who has made a significant impact on the sport, both in terms of her achievements and her contribution towards popularizing female boxing in Europe.
JoAnn Verhagen, better known as JoAnn Hagen, was born in South Bend, Indiana. Her path towards becoming a pioneering figure in women’s boxing was unconventional, but it propelled her to become an influential athlete and advocate for women’s rights.
Christy Halbert, Ph.D., is a renowned figure in the world of boxing and a trailblazer for women in the sport. With an academic background in sociology and a successful career as a collegiate athlete, she has used her diverse skills and experiences to take a multi-disciplinary approach to coaching and studying boxing.
Ana María Torres Ramírez, also known as La Guerrera, is a Mexican former professional boxer who made significant contributions to the sport during her career. Her achievements include holding the WBC female super flyweight title twice between 2007 and 2012 and challenging once for the WBC female bantamweight title in 2006. Torres’s dedication and unwavering commitment to the sport inspired aspiring female boxers, shattering stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
Daisy Lang, born in 1972, is a former professional boxer and the first Bulgarian woman to capture a world title in boxing. She held the WIBF super-flyweight, bantamweight, and super-bantamweight titles from 1999 to 2004. Lang’s skill, resilience, and dedication made her a respected figure in women’s boxing and a source of inspiration for future generations.
Patricia “Sandy” Martinez-Pino, a pioneer in women’s boxing, dedicated her life to breaking barriers and advocating for gender equality in the sport. Her impact was far-reaching as she shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of female boxers. Martinez-Pino’s unwavering commitment to boxing and her community made her a true trailblazer and a mentor to many.
Melissa “Missy” Fiorentino, known as “The Fury” in the boxing world, has made a significant impact on women’s boxing. With impressive knockout victories in her early career, she has established herself as a rising star in the sport. Despite a setback in her first world title fight, Fiorentino’s skill and dedication have inspired athletes and fans globally.
Myriam Lamare, the renowned French female boxer, overcame financial constraints and limited resources to become an elite athlete in the French Federation of Savate. She became the first female world champion recognized by the World Boxing Association (WBA) and continued to achieve notable victories throughout her career, inspiring aspiring female athletes and breaking gender norms in the male-dominated sport of boxing.
Terri Lynn “Lil Loca” Cruz, born in Raton, New Mexico, is a renowned boxer who has made a lasting impact in the world of women’s boxing. Her impressive career spanned fifteen years, during which she established herself as a formidable force in the ring. With a professional record of 17-7-2, Cruz retired from boxing in 2011, leaving behind a legacy that is etched in the annals of the sport.
Jessica Rakoczy, a professional boxer and mixed martial arts fighter, has made a name for herself in both sports. With multiple world championships and a successful run on The Ultimate Fighter, Rakoczy has showcased her exceptional skills and resilience, solidifying her place as a trailblazer for women in combat sports. Her impact on the industry will forever be remembered in women’s sports history.
Holly Rene Holm, born on October 17, 1981, is an American mixed martial artist and former professional boxer. She has competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and is known for her accomplishments in both boxing and MMA. With an impressive career in both sports, Holm has left an indelible mark in combat sports history.
Graciela Casillas (born 1957) is an American former boxer and kickboxer who achieved a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first fighter to hold both boxing and kickboxing world titles in the bantamweight division. Known for her remarkable punching power and incorporation of low kicks into her fighting style, Casillas retired undefeated in 1986, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneer and inspiration for women in combat sports. Her impact on women’s combat sports cannot be overstated.
Deirdre Gogarty, a retired Irish female boxer, made a significant impact on women’s boxing. Despite facing obstacles and having to move to the United States due to a law prohibiting women’s boxing in Ireland, Gogarty excelled in the sport. She became a source of inspiration for aspiring female boxers and cemented her place in boxing history by winning the Women’s International Boxing Federation’s Women’s World Featherweight Championship.
Isra Girgrah, a Yemeni-born American professional boxer, has made a significant impact in the world of women’s boxing. Despite facing setbacks and defeats, she has shown determination, skill, and resilience throughout her career. With multiple world class belts under her name, Girgrah has inspired many with her talent and achievements.
Terri Moss, born in 1966 in Denver, Colorado, is a retired female boxer and an esteemed inductee into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015. Her journey in life and sports has been a testament to resilience, determination, and breaking barriers.
Valerie Rebecca Mahfood, born in 1974, is a renowned female boxer known as “The Big Bad Wolfe.” With her distinctive purple mohawk and aggressive brawling style, Mahfood became a force to be reckoned with in the ring. She claimed the world Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight titles and had an unforgettable match against Laila Ali, marking the first female world title fight headlined on ESPN’s Friday night fights series. Mahfood’s determination and skill firmly established her as an influential figure in women’s boxing.
Jeannine Garside (born April 14, 1978) is a Canadian former professional boxer who achieved remarkable success in the sport, becoming a two-weight world champion. Her journey began as an amateur in Duncan, British Columbia, inspired by a captivating fight she witnessed. Garside’s determination and skill led her to numerous victories and prestigious titles, leaving a lasting legacy in women’s boxing.
Shelley Williams, a trailblazer in the world of boxing, discovered her passion for the sport while watching fights with her father. After a successful career as a paralegal, she founded Laced Leather Boxing Management, representing numerous champions and making her mark in the male-dominated industry. Williams’s dedication and contributions to boxing led to her induction into both the National Boxing Hall of Fame and the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame.
Laura Serrano Garcia, a Mexican boxer, began her impressive career while studying in Mexico City. She went on to become a trailblazer in women’s boxing, with notable victories and a significant impact on the sport, challenging gender barriers and inspiring future generations of female athletes. She was inducted into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.
Wendy Rodriguez’s legacy as a professional boxer is one of determination and perseverance. Known for her smooth moves and elusive style, Wendy faced off against some of the best female boxers in the world, accumulating multiple world titles as a junior flyweight. Beyond her success in the ring, Wendy broke barriers for women in boxing and continues to inspire young women to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Bonnie Canino, born on 11 January 1962, is a retired American boxer and kickboxer. She is best known for her achievements as a world featherweight champion in both boxing and kickboxing. Throughout her career, Canino showcased her exceptional skills and dedication to the sport, becoming a prominent figure in women’s combat sports.
Martha Salazar, known as “The Shadow,” was a Mexican boxer who became the WBC world Heavyweight champion. She made a mark in women’s boxing history, becoming the third Hispanic to achieve this title. Salazar’s journey in the boxing world was filled with victories and setbacks, but her determination and resilience inspired aspiring athletes and left a lasting impact on the sport.
Christy Renea Martin, born in 1968 in Mullens, West Virginia, was a trailblazer in women’s boxing. Through her impressive professional boxing career, she became a true champion, solidifying her status as a pioneer in the sport. Martin’s influence on women’s participation in boxing helped legitimize the sport and pave the way for future generations of female boxers. Despite facing personal tragedy, she used her experience to raise awareness about domestic violence and advocate for its prevention. Recognized for her achievements, Martin was elected to the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in 2016 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, a historic year that saw women on the ballot.
Pat Emerick, the pioneering female boxer from Tennessee, reflects on her boxing career at the age of 88. Starting off as a ticket seller in South Bend, Indiana, she was encouraged to try her hand at boxing and become a boxing sensation. Pat trained rigorously, honing her skills and incorporating a daily run near the University of Notre Dame. With an impressive record of 18-1, she secured the Ladies World Boxing Association championship title in a remarkable title match in 1949. Pat’s determination and passion for the sport helped her overcome challenges and make her mark in the world of women’s boxing.
Barbara Buttrick, aka “Battling Barbara,” was born on December 3, 1929, in Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. She became a trailblazer in women’s professional boxing, earning the world champion title in the 1940s and 1950s. Her petite stature didn’t hinder her skill and determination, and she fought her way to become the unbeaten flyweight (112) and bantamweight (118) champion from 1950 to 1960. Buttrick’s tenacity and groundbreaking performances played a crucial role in shaping women’s boxing as a recognized sport.
Bridgett Riley, a remarkable female boxer and stuntwoman, embarked on her journey in combat sports after being inspired by her brother’s interest in mixed martial arts. With intense training sessions alongside esteemed martial artists, she went on to hold the IFBA’s world Bantamweight championship, etching her name in the history books of women’s boxing. Her resilience and passion for the sport always shone through as she faced numerous challenges and fought against formidable opponents.
Lucia Frederica Rijker, also known as “The Most Dangerous Woman in the World,” is a Dutch professional boxer, kickboxer, and actress. She was born on December 6, 1967, in Amsterdam, to a Surinamese father and a Dutch mother. Rijker’s exceptional journey in the martial arts world is characterized by relentless determination, unmatched skill, and a fierce dedication to her craft.
Ria Ramnarine, the trailblazing Trinidadian and Tobagonian former professional boxer, rose to become a household name in the realm of women’s boxing. Her remarkable career spanned from 1999 to 2012 and saw her shatter stereotypes and pave the way for future generations of female athletes. Ramnarine’s resilience and unwavering determination propelled her to the pinnacle of success and left an indelible mark on women’s history in her homeland.
Sumya Anani, aka “The Island Girl,” is a retired American professional female boxer who made significant contributions to the sport. Despite facing setbacks early in her career, she rose to prominence and achieved remarkable victories, including defeating veteran Andrea DeShong and handing boxing star Christy Martin her first loss in almost a decade. Anani’s dedication to boxing and her holistic approach to health and wellness have left a lasting impact on the sport. She was inducted into the Women’s International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2016.
Marian “Lady Tyger” Trimiar, an American former professional boxer, is considered a pioneer in women’s boxing. She played a pivotal role in breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of female fighters. Trimiar became one of the first women to be granted a professional boxing license from the New York State Athletic Commission, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Jane Couch, MBE (born 14 August 1968) is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1994 to 2007. She became the first licensed female boxer in the United Kingdom in 1998 and went on to achieve numerous world titles. Couch, who later became a boxing promoter, has made a significant impact on the sport and women’s history in general.
Ada “Ace” Vélez, the Puerto Rican professional boxer, made history on January 19, 2001, when she became the first Puerto Rican to win a women’s world boxing championship. With remarkable skill and determination, she left an indelible mark on women’s boxing history, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of female boxers.
Ann Wolfe, a retired professional boxer, trainer, and actress, is renowned as one of the greatest female boxers of all time. She held world titles in three different weight classes simultaneously, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Born in Austin, Texas, Wolfe faced numerous challenges but eventually found success in boxing, becoming an inspiration for countless individuals, particularly women.
Phyllis Kugler, a trailblazer in women’s boxing, overcame societal opposition to become one of the most successful female boxers of her time. With an impressive record and multiple world women’s titles in different weight classes, Kugler challenged societal norms and paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her dedication and love for the sport changed the landscape of women’s boxing.
Sparkle Lee, a trailblazer in the world of boxing refereeing, dedicated her life to the sport she loved, overcoming numerous challenges and breaking down barriers for women in a male-dominated field. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Lee’s passion for boxing was ignited at a young age. Inspired by legendary fighters like Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis, she developed a deep admiration for the skill, discipline, and camaraderie that encompassed the sport.
Hannah Fox, also known as “The Vegas,” was a former female boxer who left a lasting impact on the world of women’s boxing. Despite facing setbacks, including her first career loss, Fox showed determination and resilience. She went on to become the number one ranked challenger for the International Female Boxers Association’s world Jr. welterweight title, ultimately securing it in 1999. With a final record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and 3 knockout victories, she continues to inspire aspiring female boxers.
Tori Jovan Nelson, born on August 26, 1976, is an exceptional American professional boxer whose journey in the sport has been defined by perseverance, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With an impressive career spanning multiple weight divisions, Nelson has left an indelible mark on women’s boxing and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
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.
Tracy Michelle Byrd, born on August 27, 1964, in Flint, Michigan, is an American female boxer. She comes from a boxing family, with her father, Joe Byrd, being a former boxer who also trained her. Tracy’s brothers, Antoine and Chris, have also made their mark in the boxing world.
Eva Jones-Young, a former American professional boxer, had a remarkable career in women’s boxing. From victories against Deirdre Rodriguez and Anissa Zamarron to claiming the IWBF and WIBF Bantamweight titles, Jones-Young’s indomitable spirit and skill left a lasting legacy in the sport. Her achievements continue to inspire aspiring athletes today.
Anne Sophie Mathis, the French former professional boxer, had an illustrious career from 1995 to 2016, becoming one of the most influential figures in women’s boxing. Known for her remarkable punching power, Mathis held world titles in multiple weight divisions and achieved a significant victory over Holly Holm. Despite setbacks, Mathis’s resilience and dedication continue to inspire generations of female athletes.
Susianna “Susi” Levonovna Kentikian (born Syuzanna Kentikyan on 11 September 1987) is an Armenian-German former professional boxer. She competed from 2005 to 2016 and is known for her remarkable achievements in the sport. Kentikian’s perseverance and dedication to her craft have inspired many individuals, both in and outside of the boxing world. She has been a trailblazer for women in boxing, breaking barriers and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Alicia Ashley (born August 23, 1967) is a former world champion women’s boxing participant known for her perseverance and dedication to the sport. She faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her career but managed to become a trailblazing figure in women’s boxing history. As a former WBC female world super bantamweight champion, IWBF world Featherweight champion, and WIBF’s world Super Bantamweight champion, Ashley’s contributions to the sport cannot be underestimated.
Delia ‘Chikita’ Gonzalez, born in 1971, is an American former flyweight female boxer who made a lasting impact on women’s boxing. Known for her fierce determination, Gonzalez amassed an impressive record of 13-9-4 with 3 knockout wins during her decade-long career. Her perseverance and skill inside the ring made her a force to be reckoned with.
Sharon Anyos, born in 1970 in Geelong, Victoria, Australia, had a remarkable career as a boxer, kickboxer, karate competitor, and model. With a multitude of accolades, including becoming the first-ever WBC World female featherweight champion, Anyos left an indelible mark on the world of combat sports while shattering gender stereotypes and inspiring young women to pursue their dreams. Her legacy as a trailblazer and icon in women’s boxing will continue to inspire generations to come.
Lisa Brown, a Trinidadian boxer, had an illustrious career in the ring. She held multiple super bantamweight titles, including the WIBA, WBA, IFBA, and WIBC, as well as the IWBF bantamweight title. Brown’s journey in boxing started after she immigrated to Canada and was encouraged by her husband and trainer, Errol Brown. Her dedication and skill have solidified her as one of the most successful boxers of her era.
Ina Menzer, born in 1980 in Atbassar, Kazakh SSR, USSR, had a remarkable career as a professional boxer. She held multiple titles and achieved numerous accolades, solidifying her legacy as one of the most influential female boxers of her time. Her relentless drive and dedication in the ring inspired countless individuals and propelled women’s boxing into the spotlight.
Michele Aboro (born 17 July 1967) is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1995 to 2001. She retired an undefeated world champion, having held the WIBF super-bantamweight title from 2000 to 2001. Michele Aboro, along with her countrywoman Michelle Sutcliffe and German Regina Halmich, became an important figure in European women’s boxing, helping raise awareness about female participation in a traditionally male sport.
Natascha Ragosina, the undefeated retired Russian professional boxer, holds the record for being the longest reigning WBA and WBC female super middleweight champion. Born in Kazakhstan in 1976, she competed professionally for Russia and is of Russian descent. Ragosina’s remarkable boxing career included numerous world titles and a historic victory where she won 7 championship belts in a single fight. Despite controversy and challenges, she solidified her legacy as a boxing legend and paved the way for future female fighters.
Melinda “La Maravilla” 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.
Kathy Long (born April 21, 1964) is an American kickboxer, mixed martial artist, and actress. She has held various kickboxing championships, including two KICK World Kickboxing titles and the WKA and ISKA world titles. Long’s contributions to kickboxing and combat sports, as well as her achievements in the entertainment industry, have solidified her place in history. Her dedication and perseverance in a male-dominated field have paved the way for other women to pursue their dreams in combat sports, making her a trailblazer and an inspiration for future generations.