Women’s Boxing in Crisis: How a Simple Solution Can Revitalize the Sport

The Current State of Women’s Boxing Women’s boxing reached new heights in 2022, with high-profile matches like Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano drawing massive crowds and lucrative paydays. However, 2023 has been a stark contrast. Key fighters, including Taylor and Marshall, have either fought infrequently or not at all. The lack of activity among top contenders has led to discussions about a potential crisis in the sport. As fans eagerly await the return of their favorite fighters, the absence of regular, high-stakes bouts has left a void that needs to be filled. The Impact of Sidelined Fighters The absence of prominent fighters not only affects fan engagement but also the development of the sport. Fighters like Ellie Scotney, Lauren Price, and Natasha Jonas have shown tremendous potential, yet they have only fought once this year. This lack of exposure limits their opportunities to showcase their skills and build their brands. With fewer high-profile matches, the excitement surrounding women’s boxing is at risk of fading. The sport needs its stars back in the ring to inspire the next generation of female boxers. A Simple Solution: Increase Fight Opportunities To address the current lull in women’s boxing, promoters and organizers must prioritize creating more fight opportunities for female fighters. This could involve scheduling dedicated women’s boxing events or integrating female bouts into existing fight cards. By ensuring that top contenders have regular matches, we can cultivate a more vibrant boxing environment that captures the attention of fans and sponsors alike. Moreover, incentivizing promoters to invest in female talent through financial support or marketing initiatives can help elevate the profiles of these athletes. The success of the all-women card at the O2 Arena in 2022 demonstrates that there is a willing audience for women’s boxing; it just needs to be reignited.