Top 20 Greatest Female Professional Boxers of All Time 2024

Women’s boxing has a rich and evolving history, filled with remarkable athletes who have made significant impacts on the sport. From pioneering legends to modern-day champions, female boxers have showcased incredible skill, strength, and determination. This article celebrates the top 20 greatest female professional boxers of all time, highlighting their achievements, influence, and contributions to boxing.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this article:

• Profiles of Legendary Fighters: Explore the careers and accomplishments of the most influential female boxers.
• Impact on the Sport: Learn how these athletes have shaped the landscape of women’s boxing.
• Historical Context: Understand the significance of their contributions and how they’ve paved the way for future generations.

1. The Evolution of Women’s Boxing

Women’s boxing has evolved significantly from its early days, marked by groundbreaking achievements and increasing recognition. Here’s a look at how the sport has transformed over time:

• Early Beginnings: Women’s boxing dates back to the 18th century but was largely informal and unrecognized until the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Pioneering Figures: Fighters like Jackie Mitchell and Bobby’s sister, who fought under pseudonyms, were among the first women to gain attention in the sport.
• Regulatory Changes: The 1990s saw significant milestones, including the introduction of women’s boxing in the Olympics in 2012.

Throughout its history, female boxers have faced many challenges, including limited opportunities and recognition. Despite these obstacles, they have continued to push boundaries, earning their place alongside their male counterparts. Today, women’s boxing is more popular and respected than ever, with numerous female athletes achieving legendary status in the sport.

2. Criteria for Selection

Selecting the top female professional boxers involves several criteria to ensure that the list represents the best of the best. Here’s what’s considered:

• Achievements: Boxers are evaluated based on their titles, championships, and notable victories.
• Impact on the Sport: The influence these athletes have had on the popularity and evolution of women’s boxing.
• Historical Significance: Contributions to the sport, including how they have broken barriers and set records.

These criteria help highlight boxers who have not only excelled in their careers but also made significant contributions to the sport’s development and visibility.

3. Top 20 Greatest Female Professional Boxers

1. Christy Martin

• Career Highlights: Known as “The Coal Miner’s Daughter,” Martin played a crucial role in popularizing women’s boxing in the 1990s. Her fights against Deirdre Gogarty and Laila Ali are legendary.
• Impact: She broke barriers for female boxers and paved the way for future generations.

2. Laila Ali

• Legacy: As the daughter of Muhammad Ali, Laila made her mark with impressive victories and a dominant career.
• Achievements: Undefeated in her professional career, she holds multiple world titles across various weight classes.

3. Cecilia Brækhus

• Dominance: Known as “The First Lady,” Brækhus held all four major welterweight titles simultaneously.
• Impact: Her success has brought international attention to women’s boxing, particularly in Europe.

4. Claressa Shields

• Olympic Success: A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Shields is celebrated for her technical skill and competitive spirit.
• Achievements: She has unified titles in multiple weight classes and remains a prominent figure in women’s boxing.

5. Katie Taylor

• Olympic Champion: Taylor won gold in London 2012, becoming a major figure in women’s boxing.
• Influence: Her success has popularized the sport in Ireland and internationally, leading to major victories in professional boxing.

6. Ana María Torres

• Achievements: Known as “The Little Warrior,” Torres has held multiple world titles in the super bantamweight division.
• Impact: Her career highlights include notable victories and contributions to Mexican boxing.

7. Holly Holm

• Versatility: Holm’s success in both boxing and MMA showcases her exceptional skill.
• Notable Wins: She gained fame with her victory over Ronda Rousey in MMA, but her boxing career is equally impressive with multiple world titles.

8. Jackie Nava

• Career: Known as “The Aztec Princess,” Nava has held titles in various weight classes.
• Influence: She is a prominent figure in Mexican boxing and has significantly impacted the sport.

9. Natasha Jonas

• Achievements: Jonas has made a name for herself in the British boxing scene with several notable victories.
• Impact: She represents a new generation of female boxers and continues to rise in the sport.

10. Ronda Rousey

• Cross-Sport Success: While primarily known for her MMA career, Rousey’s influence extends to boxing and other combat sports.
• Achievements: Her career has brought significant attention to women’s combat sports.

11. Regina Halmich

• Notable Career: Halmich dominated the super flyweight division and is a major figure in German boxing.
• Achievements: She has numerous world titles and has been a trailblazer for female boxers in Europe.

12. Marlen Esparza

• Olympic and World Titles: Esparza is known for her achievements in amateur boxing, including an Olympic bronze medal.
• Influence: She continues to be a significant figure in American women’s boxing.

13. Layla McCarter

• Multi-Division Success: McCarter has excelled in multiple weight classes and is recognized for her longevity and skill.
• Impact: Her career has influenced many upcoming female boxers.

14. Jelena Mrdjenovich

• Featherweight Dominance: Mrdjenovich is known for her powerful performances in the featherweight division.
• Achievements: She has held multiple world titles and is a prominent figure in Canadian boxing.

15. Tori Nelson

• Middleweight Success: Nelson has been a key figure in the middleweight division with several titles.
• Influence: Her career highlights include significant victories and contributions to women’s boxing.

16. Melissa Hernandez

• Achievements: Hernandez has held world titles in multiple weight classes and is known for her exciting style.
• Impact: She has been an influential figure in Puerto Rican boxing.

17. Eileen “The Coyote” Olszewski

• Career Highlights: Olszewski is recognized for her achievements and competitive spirit in women’s boxing.
• Impact: Her career has contributed to the growth of the sport.

18. Kali Reis

• Achievements: Reis has held titles in various weight classes and is known for her fighting style and skills.
• Influence: She continues to be a rising star in women’s boxing.

19. Holly Holm

• Major Achievements: Holm’s dual success in boxing and MMA showcases her exceptional versatility and impact.
• Legacy: She remains a prominent figure in combat sports.

4. The Impact of Female Boxers on the Sport

Female boxers have significantly influenced the sport of boxing, from breaking barriers to inspiring future generations. Here’s how these athletes have shaped the world of boxing:

• Increased Visibility: The achievements of top female boxers have brought more attention to women’s boxing, helping it gain recognition and respect.
• Role Models: These athletes serve as role models for young women aspiring to enter the sport, showing that dedication and skill can lead to success.
• Changing Perceptions: Female boxers have challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes, demonstrating that women can excel in combat sports.

Their contributions have not only advanced the sport but also encouraged a more inclusive and diverse boxing community.

5. Challenges Faced by Female Boxers

Despite their achievements, female boxers have faced numerous challenges throughout their careers. These challenges include:

• Gender Discrimination: Women have had to overcome significant barriers related to gender bias and unequal opportunities in the sport.
• Limited Coverage: Historically, female boxers have received less media coverage compared to their male counterparts, affecting their visibility and recognition.
• Financial Inequities: Female boxers often face disparities in prize money and sponsorship opportunities compared to male fighters.

These obstacles have been met with resilience and determination, as many female boxers continue to fight for equality and recognition in the sport.

6. Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Boxing

The future of women’s boxing looks promising, with several trends and developments shaping the sport:

• Emerging Talent: New generations of female boxers are making their mark, bringing fresh energy and talent to the sport.
• Increased Support: Growing support from fans, media, and organizations is helping to elevate women’s boxing and provide more opportunities for female fighters.
• Global Expansion: Women’s boxing is gaining traction worldwide, with increased participation and recognition in various countries.

The continued growth and evolution of women’s boxing promise a vibrant future, filled with exciting opportunities and new milestones.

Conclusion

The top 20 greatest female professional boxers have left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing. Their achievements and influence have helped shape the landscape of women’s boxing, inspiring countless individuals and paving the way for future generations. As we celebrate their legacies, we also look forward to the continued growth and success of women in boxing.

Additional Resources

For more information on the top female boxers and the history of women’s boxing, check out the following resources:

• Interviews and Documentaries: Watch interviews and documentaries featuring these legendary fighters.
• Books and Articles: Read books and articles about the history and achievements of female boxers.
• Current Events: Follow current female boxing events and emerging talents to stay updated on the latest developments in the sport.