The Evolution of Women’s Boxing: A Comprehensive Champions List from ESPN

Women’s boxing Championship Rundown: A Comprehensive Guide – August 23, 2025

The landscape of Women’s boxing is constantly evolving, with athletes achieving remarkable feats across 17 distinct weight divisions. This report provides a current overview of championship holders as recognized by the major sanctioning bodies: WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC.

A look at the Current champions

As of today, August 23, 2025, several athletes dominate their respective weight classes.The world of Women’s boxing continues to grow, attracting more fans and offering increased opportunities for talented fighters.

Heavyweight (Over 175 pounds)

Claressa shields currently holds all four major titles in the heavyweight division: WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC.

Light Heavyweight (175 lbs.)

The Light Heavyweight division currently sees vacancies for both the WBO and WBC titles. Lani Daniels holds the IBF title, while Che Kenneally reigns as the WBA champion.

Super Middleweight (168 lbs.)

Shadasia Green maintains control of both the WBO and IBF Super Middleweight titles. Franchon Crews Dezurn is the current WBA and WBC champion.

Middleweight (160 lbs.)

Desley Robinson is the dominant force in the Middleweight division, currently holding both the WBO and IBF titles. Both the WBA and WBC titles are currently vacant.

Junior Middleweight (154 lbs.)

Ema Kozin holds the WBO and WBC Junior Middleweight titles. Oshae Jones currently possesses the IBF title, while Mary Spencer is the WBA champion. Cecilia Braekhus holds the WBC interim title.

Welterweight (147 lbs.)

Lauren Price is a force to be reckoned with in the Welterweight division, securing the IBF, WBA, and WBC titles. Mikaela Mayer is the current WBO titleholder.

Junior Welterweight (140 lbs.)

Katie Taylor impressively holds all four major belts – WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC – in the Junior Welterweight division. Chantelle Cameron is the WBC interim champion.

Lightweight (135 lbs.)

Terri Harper is the WBO Lightweight champion. Beatriz Ferreira holds the IBF title, Stephanie Han the WBA title, and Caroline Dubois the WBC title.

Junior Lightweight (130 lbs.)

Alycia baumgardner has a firm grip on the Junior Lightweight division, holding the WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC titles.

Featherweight (126 lbs.)

Amanda Serrano is the WBO and WBA Featherweight champion. Nina Meinke currently holds the IBF title, while Tiara Brown is the WBC Featherweight champion. Jennifer Miranda is the WBA interim champion.

Junior Featherweight (122 lbs.)

Ellie Scotney currently dominates the Junior Featherweight division, holding all four major titles: WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC.

bantamweight (118 lbs.)

dina Thorslund and Cherneka johnson share dominance in the Bantamweight division. Thorslund holds the WBO and WBC titles, while Johnson reigns as the IBF and WBA champion.

Junior Bantamweight (115 lbs.)

Mizuki Hiruta is the WBO Junior Bantamweight champion. Irma Garcia holds the IBF title,Jasmine Artiga the WBA title,and Asley Gonzalez the WBC title.Ginny Fuchs holds the WBC interim title.

Flyweight (112 lbs.)

Gabriela Fundora is a force in the Flyweight division, currently holding the WBO, IBF, and WBC titles.The WBA title has an interim champion in Viviana Ruiz Corredor.

Junior Flyweight (108 lbs.)

Evelyn Bermudez is the WBO and IBF Junior Flyweight champion. Sara Bailey holds the WBA title, and Lourdes Juarez the WBC title.

Strawweight (105 lbs.)

Sarah Bormann is the WBO Strawweight champion. Sol Cudos holds the IBF title, Yuko Kuroki the WBA title, and Yokasta Valle the WBC title. Umi Ishikawa holds the WBC interim title.

Atomweight (102 lbs.)

Tina Rupprecht reigns supreme in the Atomweight division, holding the WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC titles. Camila Zamorano is the WBC interim champion.

the Rising Tide of Women’s Boxing

Women’s boxing has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, with increased media coverage and a growing fan base. this growth can be attributed to the incredible skill and determination of the athletes, as well as the efforts of promoters and organizations to elevate the sport.

Did You know? The first sanctioned women’s boxing match took place in 1996.

Pro Tip: Follow major sanctioning bodies (WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC) for the latest updates and rankings in women’s boxing.

frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between a champion and an interim champion in boxing? an interim champion is often crowned when the reigning champion is unable to defend their title due to injury or other circumstances.
• How many weight classes are there in women’s boxing? There are currently 17 weight classes in women’s boxing, ranging from Atomweight to Heavyweight.
• Wich sanctioning bodies are considered the most prestigious in women’s boxing? The WBO,IBF,WBA,and WBC are generally considered the four major sanctioning bodies.
• Where can I find more details about women’s boxing rankings? ESPN provides updated pound-for-pound rankings for women’s boxing: ESPN Women’s Boxing Rankings.
• Is women’s boxing gaining popularity? Yes, women’s boxing is experiencing important growth in viewership and participation.

What are your predictions for the future of women’s boxing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How did the societal resistance to women’s boxing in the pre-2000 era impact the early careers of pioneers like Barbara Buttrick?

Early Struggles & The Fight for Recognition (Pre-2000)

Women’s boxing faced decades of prohibition and societal resistance. While unsanctioned bouts occurred as early as the 18th century – often disguised as men – formal recognition was a long battle. the early pioneers of women’s professional boxing weren’t seeking fame,but the right to compete.

1990s breakthrough: The 1990s marked a turning point. States began to sanction women’s boxing matches, and the demand for female boxing grew.

Barbara buttrick: Often cited as a key figure, Buttrick fought throughout the 1970s and 80s, paving the way for future generations despite limited opportunities.

Christy Martin: Arguably the most recognizable name from this era, Martin’s televised fights on undercards of male boxing events brought women’s boxing into the mainstream. Her rivalry with Deirdre Gogarty was particularly impactful.

The Rise of ESPN & Mainstream Acceptance (2000-2010)

ESPN’s coverage, though initially limited, played a crucial role in legitimizing women’s boxing. Increased media exposure led to better sponsorships, training facilities, and overall athlete development. This period saw the emergence of multiple weight class champions.

Laila Ali: Daughter of Muhammad Ali, Laila quickly became a dominant force, captivating audiences with her power and skill. Her undefeated record and high-profile fights substantially boosted the sport’s profile.

Mia St. John: A long-time contender and champion, St.John’s career spanned multiple decades and helped establish a foundation for future fighters.

Ann Wolfe: Known for her aggressive style and knockout power,wolfe held titles in multiple weight classes and was a formidable opponent for anyone.

ESPN’s Role: ESPN’s SportsCenter and other platforms began featuring highlights and analysis of women’s boxing, slowly integrating it into the broader sports conversation.

The Modern Era: Skill, Strategy & Global Expansion (2010-Present)

the last decade has witnessed an explosion in the skill level and popularity of women’s boxing. Fighters are more technically proficient, training is more sophisticated, and the global reach of the sport is expanding. ESPN’s commitment has grown, with dedicated coverage and analysis.

Current Champions (as of August 23, 2025 – ESPN rankings)

this list reflects ESPN’s current rankings and is subject to change.

Flyweight (112 lbs): Yuliana Lora (Dominican Republic) – Known for her relentless pressure and powerful combinations.

super Flyweight (115 lbs): Marlen Hernandez (Cuba) – A technically gifted boxer with exceptional footwork.

Bantamweight (118 lbs): Shannon O’Connell (Australia) – A veteran fighter with a proven track record.

Featherweight (126 lbs): Skye Nicolson (Australia) – olympic medalist transitioning to a successful professional career.

Super Featherweight (130 lbs): Erika Cruz (Mexico) – A powerful puncher with a strong chin.

Lightweight (135 lbs): Chantelle Cameron (United Kingdom) – Former undisputed champion,known for her boxing IQ.

Super Lightweight (140 lbs): Jessica McCaskill (United States) – A two-time undisputed champion, known for her toughness and determination.

Welterweight (147 lbs): Natasha Jonas (United Kingdom) – A versatile fighter with a strong amateur background.

Middleweight (160 lbs): Claressa Shields (United States) – Arguably the biggest star in women’s boxing, Shields is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and undisputed champion.

Super Middleweight (168 lbs): Savannah Marshall (United Kingdom) – Known for her knockout power and aggressive style.

Light Heavyweight (175 lbs): Franchon Crews-Dezurn (United States) – A dominant force in the division, known for her physicality.

Key Trends Shaping the Sport

Increased Athleticism: Female boxers are now highly conditioned athletes, with dedicated strength and conditioning programs.

Technical Refinement: The emphasis on technique and strategy has increased, leading to more competitive and exciting fights.

Global Talent Pool: Fighters from around the world are emerging, creating a more diverse and competitive landscape.

Pay-Per-View & Streaming: Major fights are now being broadcast on pay-per-view and streaming platforms, reaching a wider audience.

Unified Championships: The pursuit of undisputed championships has become a major storyline, driving interest and excitement.

The Impact of Social Media & Fan Engagement

Social media platforms like instagram, twitter, and TikTok have become essential tools for women’s boxing fighters to connect with fans, build their brands, and promote their fights. this direct engagement has fostered a stronger sense of community and increased the sport’s visibility.

Athlete Branding: Fighters are using social media to