The now nine-time world champion in seven weight divisions Amanda Serrano (37-1-1, 27 KOs), a native of Carolina, Puerto Rico, became the new world champion of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and world champion interim of the World Boxing Council (WBC) in the weight of 126 pounds, after beating unanimous decision to former world champion Heather Hardy (22-1, 4 KOs), of Brooklyn, and who was making his first starting defense of the WBO world title.
The fight that was broadcast live on the DAZN sports app was held at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden, located in New York City.
The judges scored 98-91, 98-91 and 98-92 in favor of the Puerto Rican resident in Brooklyn.
“It was a great fight and a great victory for women’s boxing. I put Hardy in poor condition in the first round but she managed to improve her defense and movements in the next round. She came to give it all. My regards to her who showed to be very tough. I just followed the instructions in my corner that was smart boxing and in the end, we managed to finish the fight with good results, ”said Amanda Serrano.
“There is talk that the winner of this fight is going to face Katie Taylor at 135 pounds but I understand that she now decided to campaign at 140 pounds. I do not know if he will then lose 135 pounds, but no matter the weight, I will beat him and I am willing to fight in Ireland. If she doesn’t want to fight me, I have more options at 126 pounds since I want to be an undisputed champion in that weight, which is my natural weight and there are mixed martial arts with several offers on the table. With Puerto Rico in my heart, nothing will stop me. This is for you, ”said an excited Serrano.
Serrano, is the only female or male exponent in the sport of professional boxing, who has won world titles in seven weight categories under one or several of the four globally recognized bodies (WBO, WBC, WBA and IBF).
Photos by Ed Mullholland / Matchroom Boxing USA
