With the inspiration and support of countrywoman and IBF Super Bantamweight Champion Marcela Acuna, Argentinian Brenda Karen Carabaja (9-4-1, 9 KOs) edged out the Unanimous Decision victory over the favored and unbeaten Russian Elena Gradinar (9-1, 2 KOs) on Saturday evening at Boardway Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Carabajal wins her first world title after unsuccessful challenges at Featherweight and Lightweight. This was also her first time fighting outside of Argentina.
Gradinar, fighting outside of her native region as well, cited that she knew the bout was close but she believe she may have had the slight edge on the judge’s scorecards.
Official Scores: 96-94, 97-93, 97-93.
Carabajal stated: “There are no words that explain what I feel in these moments, I have the heart that exploits me of Happiness, to have fulfilled my dream, my great objective, after having traveled a long way in this beautiful sport, only 14 years from the day that I decided to go behind this madness, be CHAMPION OF THE WORLD !!”
“This is just the beginning. It is the beginning of a new stage, and here I am going with all the forces of the world to continue conquering successes and learning from bad times, because that is what it is about – to overcome the good and the bad that life put in front!”
The 2018 Prospect of the Year – Gradinar – stated that she will rest and recuperate then meet with her team on new next direction.
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