Natasha Jonas Defends IBF Title in Controversial Win Over Mayer
Jonas Retains Title in Controversial Victory Over Mayer
In a closely contested battle, Natasha Jonas successfully defended her IBF welterweight world championship against American contender Mikaela Mayer. The event, which took place in Liverpool, spanned the full ten rounds, culminating in a split decision that has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.
Controversial Judging Mars Split Decision
The outcome of the fight was mired in controversy due to the judges' scorecards. While one judge scored the bout in favor of Mayer, the remaining two judges declared Jonas the winner. This divergence in scores has fueled discussions on the criteria used by the judges to determine the victor of the match.
Jonas's Perspective on the Fight
Despite the contentious nature of the decision, Jonas felt confident in her performance, believing she had secured the win by a margin of two rounds. "I thought I was comfortably two rounds up at the end," she stated, reflecting on the intensity of the competition.
Jonas conceded that she encountered some challenges during the middle segments of the fight, acknowledging that she made it tougher for herself than necessary. However, she remained resolute in her belief that she emerged as the rightful winner. "All in all, I won. I grinded it out," Jonas expressed. She further elaborated, "Sometimes you can box brilliantly and lose or draw, whatever it is, and the decision doesn't go your way and sometimes you can scrape a win and I think I did that."
Trainer's Support and Strategic Insight
Jonas's trust in her trainer, Joe Gallagher, played a significant role in her preparation and strategy. Gallagher's round-by-round judgment aligned with Jonas's self-assessment, providing a unified front from the champion's corner. His expertise and guidance were evident throughout Jonas's campaign to retain her title.
Openness to a Rematch
Addressing the possibility of a rematch with Mayer, Jonas showed openness to the idea, saying, "Of course that will be an option." However, she emphasized the need to evaluate all potential opportunities before making a decision regarding her next opponent.
"We're going to sit down and see what opportunities are available and I'll choose the best one for me," Jonas stated, highlighting her strategic approach to her career. She continued, "If that's Mikaela Mayer, we'll choose Mikaela Mayer. If that's Lauren Price, we choose her. If that's Jessica McCaskill, we choose her. If that's Katie Taylor, we choose her."
Respect for the Journey and Potential Opponents
Jonas also took a moment to acknowledge the professional journey both she and Mayer have undertaken. She recognized the hard work and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of women's boxing, noting the high level of skill and schooling both fighters possess. "It was hard work, exactly what I thought. Two class operators and two top-class female fighters who have been well schooled, been in the Olympic cycle, been the hard route, been in through the amateurs and that elite level," Jonas remarked.
As Jonas contemplates her future in the ring, names like Lauren Price, Jessica McCaskill, and Katie Taylor surface as potential adversaries. Each presents a unique challenge and an opportunity for Jonas to further cement her legacy in the sport.
Conclusion
While the dust settles from the Liverpool showdown, the boxing community eagerly awaits Jonas's next move. Her victory over Mayer, albeit surrounded by debate, has solidified her standing as a formidable champion in the welterweight division. With a possible rematch on the horizon and other notable contenders vying for a shot at the title, Natasha Jonas's career is poised for more thrilling chapters.
