Cecilia Braekhus wins unified world championships to retire and bring an era of women's boxing to an end
Key Takeaways
- Cecilia Braekhus retired after winning the unified WBC and WBO super-welterweight world titles against Ema Kozin.
- Braekhus's professional career spanned from 2007 to 2023 and included becoming the first woman undisputed champion in the four-belt era (2014).
- She reflected on the significant obstacles women faced in boxing when she started, noting improvements for the next generation.
- Braekhus only lost twice in her entire career, with Jessica McCaskill being the only opponent to defeat her.
- The article highlights the emerging talent in women's boxing, specifically mentioning Claressa Shields and Lauren Price.
Norwegian trailblazer Cecilia Braekhus retired from boxing following a triumphant final fight on Saturday, where she dominated Ema Kozin to win the unified WBC and WBO super-welterweight world titles via unanimous decision. This victory capped a 42-bout professional career that started in 2007, a time when professional boxing was banned in her native Norway, a ban that was eventually lifted partly due to her efforts. Braekhus achieved significant milestones, including becoming the first woman to be undisputed world champion in the four-belt era in 2014, and she amassed a remarkable 36-bout winning streak before her first loss. Reflecting on her journey, she noted the significant challenges and sexism faced by early female boxers, expressing satisfaction that the current generation has a better landscape. As Braekhus steps away, the focus shifts to the future of women's boxing, highlighted by established stars like Claressa Shields and rising talents such as Olympic champion Lauren Price, who is already unifying titles.
