Women’s boxing has exploded in popularity over the past two decades—and a huge part of that growth can be traced back to unforgettable fights that captivated fans, elevated female fighters, and broke records. These matches didn’t just entertain—they helped legitimize women’s boxing at the highest levels. Here’s a round-up of the most iconic and influential bouts that changed the game.
1. Christy Martin vs. Deirdre Gogarty (1996)
Location: Las Vegas, USA
Why it’s iconic: This undercard fight on the Mike Tyson–Frank Bruno PPV was supposed to be a sideshow—but instead, it became a turning point. Christy Martin and Deirdre Gogarty traded blows in an all-out war that thrilled fans and brought national attention to women’s boxing. Martin's battered face on the cover of Sports Illustrated became a symbol of women's grit and toughness in the ring.
2. Lucia Rijker vs. Jane Couch (1999)
Location: Las Vegas, USA
Why it’s iconic: This was a clash of two pioneers. Rijker, dubbed “The Most Dangerous Woman in the World,” faced British trailblazer Jane Couch, who had fought for the right to box professionally in the UK. The fight was short but symbolic—Rijker won convincingly, and the bout helped raise the sport’s international profile.
3. Laila Ali vs. Jacqui Frazier-Lyde (2001)
Location: New York, USA
Why it’s iconic: Dubbed “Ali-Frazier IV,” this was the daughters of two legendary heavyweights going toe-to-toe. It was the first women’s boxing match to headline a Pay-Per-View event. Laila Ali took a hard-fought decision, proving she wasn’t just Muhammad Ali’s daughter—she was a serious fighter in her own right.
4. Katie Taylor vs. Natasha Jonas (2021)
Location: Manchester, UK
Why it’s iconic: This bout was a rematch of their 2012 Olympic showdown. Both women brought incredible technical skills and relentless pace. Taylor narrowly won by decision, and the fight was hailed as one of the best of the year—men’s or women’s.
5. Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall (2022)
Location: London, UK
Why it’s iconic: Touted as a long-awaited grudge match—Marshall was the only person to beat Shields in the amateurs. Shields dominated the rematch and became the undisputed middleweight champion. The bout headlined an all-women's boxing card at the O2 Arena, a historic first.
6. Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (2022)
Location: Madison Square Garden, USA
Why it’s iconic: This was the first women’s fight to headline MSG. The lightweight championship bout was a 10-round thriller, with both women delivering non-stop action. Taylor edged a close split decision in a fight that drew huge viewership and critical acclaim.
7. Amanda Serrano vs. Erika Cruz (2023)
Location: New York, USA
Why it’s iconic: Serrano unified the featherweight division in a gritty battle that saw both fighters leave everything in the ring. It showcased Serrano’s volume-punching and toughness, cementing her legacy.
8. Alycia Baumgardner vs. Mikaela Mayer (2022)
Location: London, UK
Why it’s iconic: A high-stakes unification bout with major build-up and tension. Baumgardner’s slick style and Mayer’s grit made for a close contest, with Baumgardner winning via split decision. It brought big-time U.S. vs. UK energy to the women’s scene.
Honorable Mentions
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Ann Wolfe vs. Vonda Ward (2004): Wolfe’s one-punch knockout became one of the most replayed KOs in boxing history.
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Cecilia Brækhus vs. Jessica McCaskill (2020): McCaskill ended Brækhus’s 10-year reign as undisputed welterweight champ.
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Nicola Adams vs. Ren Cancan (2012 Olympics): Adams became the first woman to win Olympic gold in boxing history.
Final Thoughts
Each of these fights represents more than just belts and bragging rights. They mark moments when women’s boxing broke barriers, shattered stereotypes, and proved to the world that their fights belong in the spotlight.
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