From WBC:
Shields vs. Hammer advancing Women`s Boxing
The unification of the female World Middleweight belts between Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer this Saturday night, signals a significant and mighty advance for a sport, in which women have had to traditionally and historically fight and persevere every single step of the way.
Women’s boxing dates back to the early eighteenth century in Great Britain. Historical data reveals that the first/fist champion on record, was Londoner Elizabeth Wilkinson, who made her debut in 1722.
Other pioneers followed, but It was not until 1975 that some women raised their voices and asked for permission to box in various states of North America, focusing on the trial of boxers Cathy Davis, Jackie Tonawanda and Marian Trimiar who battled against the state of New York for the rejection of their licenses. This then crystalized and focused public attention on the issue and plight of women’s boxing as never before!
However, many experts say that the birth of modern women’s boxing took place on March 15, 1996 with the fight between Christy Martin and Deirdre Gogarty, which despite not being the main event, clearly displayed boxing skills, courage and will of the two fighters which both delighted and impressed the fans.
Women’s boxing is now a established, solid and lasting reality, thanks to the pioneers who`ve time after time, again and again, shone at national, regional and international level. There have been champions who through their dedication and brilliant skills have led the way. Laila Ali, Ina Menzer, Naomi Togashi, Marcela Acuña, Cecilia Braekhus, Laura Serrano, Ana Maria Torres, Mariana Juarez, Jackie Nava, Momo Koseli, not forgetting so many others who have given their all!
The World Boxing Council, led by Don José Sulaimán, began to sanction women’s boxing in 2004, when Mexican Jackie Nava the first WBC champion. After 15 years, the WBC continues championing the fight for women’s boxing to continue growing. The WBC has already held three successful conventions in Playa del Carmen, Tijuana and Manila to encourage and boost development, promoting medical research, strengthen the relationship with boxers, coaches, managers and promoters plus address many aspects that have helped progressively grow the sport.
Saturday’s match between North American Claressa Shields and Kazakh-born German Christina Hammer at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall is currently the biggest fight in women’s boxing.
Both warriors are undefeated, Shields has a record of 8-0 with two knockouts, while Hammer has a record of 24-0 with 11 knockouts. The two have all the middleweight belts; and the quality and fighting style that each possesses, guarantees that this will be a highly competitive as well as memorable fight.
The World Boxing Council will present a special belt to the winner of this highly anticipated, historic and unique fight, which marks the dawn of another new and exciting era.
Press Release - WBC
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