In the world of boxing, few countries produce so much talent per capita as the United Kingdom. Both men and women who fly the Union Jack often are amongst the crème de la crème of the sport, holding titles, getting medals and in the case of women, breaking both jaws and barriers and the same time. It is important to highlight the best UK women boxers in recent history. We’ll talk about their personalities, records and also recollect some of the most memorable moments in their careers. Let’s begin!
History of female boxing – how did the best UK women boxers emerge?
Female boxing in the UK has transcended from an afterthought into a major competition in various parts of the country. The journey of popularity began in the latter part of the 20th century when women’s sports became much more recognized and watched worldwide. Yet, for a while there were tons of unofficial bouts and limited recognition that prevented top-class athletes from being able to receive proper evaluation for their performances.
Only in 1996 that the British Boxing Board of Control finally granted licenses to women giving the sport official recognition. This paved the way for a new era of athletes who would go on to leave their mark and lay the foundation for the growth of the boxing community in the United Kingdom and abroad.
Chantelle Cameron
Record (as of April 2024):
- Wins: 18
- Wins by KO: 8
- Losses: 1
- Orthodox Stance
Chantelle Cameron has the nickname “Il Capo,”. It’s by no accident as she also handles dirty business just not in the street like a capo in the mob, but in the ring. The Northampton native has carved out her own lane in the boxing world with a fighting style that’s been described as non-stop action.
The Briton’s ability to mix sharp jabs with relentless aggression makes her a very fun boxer to watch. If you’d have to list her best moment, it could probably be her Cameron’s most memorable moment was when she clinched the WBC super-lightweight title in 2020 or maybe her TKO against Melissa Hernandez in the 5th round to retain the WBC female light-welterweight title. As of right now, she is most definitely amongst the best UK women boxers not just this decade but all time.
Savannah Marshall
Record (as of April 2024):
- Wins: 13
- Wins by KO: 10
- Losses: 1
- Orthodox Stance
Everyone loves a hard-hitter and the Silent Assassin is just that. The boxer originates from Hartlepool and is known for her devastating power and a ring IQ that’s comparable to both male and female greats.
She holds the distinction of being the only boxer to have defeated the superstar of the female fighting world – american Claressa Shields, albeit in the amateur ranks. Sadly, Savannah Marshall later lost her titles to Shields in a 10-round bout back in 2022.
If you watch Marshalls’ fights, you can quickly notice that despite her overpowering punching, the style is a very calculated blend of aggressive attacks and smart defence. Her 2020 knockout win over Hannah Rankin, where she claimed the vacant WBO middleweight title, remains the biggest highlight of her career. You could also mention a bounce back after the aforementioned loss, where the Briton beat Franchon Crews-Dezurn to win super-middleweight titles.
Natasha Jonas
Record (as of April 2024):
- Wins: 15
- Wins by KO: 9
- Losses: 2
- Draws: 1
- Southpaw Stance
Coming from Liverpool, the Olympian has amassed a very impressive track record fighting against some of the best in the lightweight categories. Natasha Jonas always passes the eye test and shows exceptional technical finesse that has made her a standout in the sport.
If you look at her fights, she is very methodical in her approach, putting defence first and trying to bait her opponents into making silly or easily counterable mistakes (aka Floyd Mayweather). The boxer has been part of some of the most exciting matches in women’s boxing ever. An interesting moment in her career was when she drew Terri Harper in 2020 for WBC and IBO belts. But her highest point might’ve been two recent bouts vs Kandi Wyatt (won vacant IBF welterweight belt) and Mikaela Mayer (retained the same belt).