A Night of Championship Glory: Natasha Jonas vs. Lauren Price
On Friday, the historic Royal Albert Hall in London will host an all-British clash for the ultimate welterweight title, featuring Natasha Jonas and Lauren Price. This highly anticipated bout is not just a contest for world supremacy; it’s a generational showdown that highlights the evolution of women’s boxing in the UK. Jonas, a 40-year-old trailblazer, made history as one of the first female boxers to compete at the Olympic Games, where she fought in the inaugural women’s bout at London 2012. Despite a tough loss to Katie Taylor, Jonas has had a remarkable late-career resurgence, winning world titles at 154 lbs and 147 lbs on a seven-fight winning streak. Her opponent, Lauren Price, is a rising star with an unblemished 8-0 record. Price won middleweight gold at the Tokyo Olympics and has already claimed the WBA and Ring Magazine welterweight titles. This fight is a testament to the growth and depth of women’s boxing in the UK, where both seasoned veterans and emerging talents are making their mark.
The Stellar Undercard
The main event is just the tip of the iceberg, as the undercard is packed with talented fighters vying for their own titles and accolades. One of the most anticipated bouts features Caroline Dubois, a rising star with a 10-0-1 record, taking on Bo Mi Re Shin of Korea. Dubois, a former amateur standout, is looking to make a statement after a frustrating technical decision draw in her last fight. Shin, known for her powerful punches, will provide a formidable challenge, and the match promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The WBC lightweight title is on the line, and a win could propel Dubois to the top of the women’s boxing world.
Karriss Artingstall: Olympic Bronze to British Champion
In another high-stakes bout, Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Karriss Artingstall (6-0) will face Raven Chapman (9-1) for the British featherweight title. This will be Artingstall’s first professional title fight and her first 10-round championship bout. Chapman, who recently challenged for the WBC title, will be looking to rebound and secure a return to world-level action. The stakes are high, and both fighters know that a loss could stall their careers. Artingstall, with her Olympic pedigree and growing professional record, is poised to make a significant impact in the professional ranks, and this fight could be her crowning moment.
Chloe Watson: Defending the European Title
Chloe Watson (8-0) will make her first defense of the European flyweight title she won in December 2023. Watson, trained by the legendary Ricky Hatton, will face Jasmina Zapotoczna (8-1), a tough competitor who has already notched a significant victory against Maisey Rose Courtney. Watson’s only fight in 2024 was a non-title bout against Kate Radomska, and she will be eager to showcase her skills and maintain her unbeaten record. This bout is crucial for Watson’s progression, and a win would solidify her position as one of the top flyweights in Europe.
Francesca Hennessy: Continuing Her Unblemished Record
Francesca Hennessy (5-0), the 20-year-old daughter of British boxing promoter Mick Hennessy, will take on veteran Gemma Ruegg (8-12-1) in an eight-round bout. Hennessy, known for her viral ring walks, has been making waves in the super bantamweight division. Ruegg, despite her record, has shown resilience and skill, and this fight will be a test of Hennessy’s mettle. The bout was originally scheduled against Carla Camila Campos Gonzalez, but visa issues forced a change. Hennessy’s continued success could propel her to bigger and more significant fights in the near future.
The Future of Women’s Boxing
The Natasha Jonas vs. Lauren Price card is a showcase of the incredible talent and depth in women’s boxing. From seasoned veterans like Jonas to rising stars like Dubois and Artingstall, the night promises to be a memorable one for both the fighters and the fans. The undercard, with its mix of title fights and high-stakes bouts, underscores the growth and excitement in the sport. As women’s boxing continues to gain recognition and support, events like this one are essential in driving the narrative forward and inspiring the next generation of fighters. The Royal Albert Hall will be a fitting venue for this historic night, where the past, present, and future of women’s boxing will come together in thrilling fashion.
