Natasha Jonas Retains IBF Welterweight Title in Thrilling Clash with Mikaela Mayer

British boxer Natasha Jonas successfully defended her IBF welterweight title in a sensational showdown against Mikaela Mayer at Liverpool‘s M&S Bank Arena. The thrilling bout provided non-stop action and ended in a close split-decision victory for Jonas, although it is a result that may divide opinion.

In a terrific back-and-forth exchange, both fighters showcased their skills and enjoyed success throughout the match. The scorecards revealed scores of 96-94 and 96-95 in favor of Jonas, with one judge scoring it 97-93 for Mayer. The hometown advantage might have played a role in the ultimate outcome.

Following her hard-earned victory, a jubilant Jonas acknowledged Mayer’s disappointment, stating that she knows her opponent deserved a chance to become a two-weight world champion. Jonas, who hails from Liverpool, extended her impressive record to 15 wins, two defeats, and one draw. It will also be her last year in boxing as she plans to retire.

Mayer, a 33-year-old American, suffered her second loss in her 21-fight career. Despite the defeat, she expressed her hope for a rematch, recognizing Jonas’ status as a stand-up champion. The build-up to the fight drew comparisons to the legendary 1985 contest between Marvin Hagler and Tommy Hearns, and while it may not have reached those heights, it was a memorable show of skill and determination by both fighters.

The M&S Bank Arena was not at full capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions, but the Liverpool crowd passionately supported their local hero. Among the spectators was former world champion Callum Smith, who attended just one week after his defeat to Canelo Alvarez.

Jonas started the match strongly, connecting with a left hook to Mayer’s stomach and a well-timed counter right. Mayer responded with increased urgency in the second round, resulting in an engaging exchange between the two fighters. Despite Mayer dictating the pace, Jonas managed to land solid counter punches.

Mayer gained confidence as the fight progressed, trapping Jonas in the corner and delivering powerful body shots in the fifth round. Jonas’ trainer, Joe Gallagher, expressed concern and urged her to be less submissive on the ropes. The intensity continued into the later rounds, with both fighters exchanging heavy blows to the body.

In the ninth round, Mayer landed a significant left that caused a cut above Jonas’ left eye. However, Jonas fought back valiantly, though weariness was visible as she returned to her corner. The closely contested match entered the 10th round, and Jonas, spurred on by her home fans, gave it her all until the final seconds.

Prior to the fight, Jonas paid homage to trailblazer Jane Couch, a hall-of-fame star who paved the way for women’s boxing in Britain. Couch accompanied Jonas to the ring, and together they entered to Beyonce’s ‘Run The World (Girls)’. Just like Couch, Jonas has made history in her own right as Britain’s first female Olympic boxer.

Despite setbacks in her career, Jonas has gone on to win multiple world titles and has become a pioneer in women’s boxing. She expressed gratitude to her fans for attending the fight, which took place only a short distance from her birthplace. Looking ahead, Jonas aims to chase legacy fights and possibly pursue unification bouts at welterweight.

Possible future opponents could include Sandy Ryan, the WBO champion from Britain, and Jessica McCaskill, who currently holds the IBF, WBC, and WBA belts. Additionally, an all-British clash against Wales’ Olympic gold medallist Lauren Price, also promoted by Boxxer, remains an attractive option.

When asked about her plans, Jonas did not specifically mention any names but conveyed her appreciation to her loyal supporters, stating that this would likely be her final year in boxing.