Natasha Jonas is not content with just participating in the sport; she aspires to be recognized as one of the best in her generation. This ambition is driving her into a high-stakes title defense against Mikaela Mayer in Liverpool, her hometown. Jonas, motivated by the achievements of her contemporaries like Katie Taylor, Chantelle Cameron, and Amanda Serrano, is determined to secure her place among the elite. “If I want to be considered a great among them, then I need to do the same and beat one of those people on the list,” Jonas explained. She views her upcoming bout against Mayer as a pathway to the prestigious pound-for-pound lists.
Jonas (14-2-1, 9 KOs) has experienced her share of challenges in her quest for titles. Her initial title attempts were hard-fought but narrowly missed, including a draw with Terri Harper and a close defeat to Katie Taylor. However, her resilience paid off as she achieved success in the junior middleweight division, winning three belts in as many fights in a campaign worthy of Fighter of the Year. Despite the disappointment of not being able to fully unify the division, Jonas recognized her optimal weight class, moving to welterweight where she claimed the IBF title with a victory over Kandi Wyatt.
The upcoming fight with Mayer (19-1, 5 KOs), a former unified junior lightweight titlist and a fighter known for her adaptability across weight classes, presents Jonas with the opportunity she has been seeking. Despite turning 40 soon, Jonas's impeccable form makes her a slight favorite, even in her hometown. Mayer, however, poses a formidable challenge and aims to become a two-division champion herself.
For Jonas, this bout is more than just another fight; it’s a chance to secure a legacy-defining victory. “A win over Mikaela will be the biggest win on my record,” Jonas said, highlighting the significance of this match in her illustrious career. As she prepares to step into the ring at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool for this show, Jonas is not just fighting for a title but for her place in the annals of boxing history.
Image Credit: Sky Sports