Jonas Retains IBF Welterweight Title in Controversial Split Decision
In a closely contested battle, Natasha Jonas successfully defended her IBF welterweight world championship against American boxer Mikaela Mayer. The bout, which took place in Liverpool, stretched to the full ten rounds with both fighters showcasing their skill and determination. The outcome, however, was not without controversy as the judges' scorecards became a point of contention. While one judge scored the fight in favor of Mayer, the other two saw Jonas as the victor, ultimately leading to her split decision win. Despite the mixed views from the ringside officials, Jonas believed she had done enough to secure the victory, stating she felt she was "comfortably two rounds up at the end.""All in all, I won. I grinded it out. I made it a little bit uncomfortable for myself in the middle rounds. Again I won, that's all I can say. I won," Jonas reflected on her performance.
Indeed, Jonas admitted to facing challenges during the middle segments of the match but remained confident in her overall performance. She also expressed trust in her trainer, Joe Gallagher, whose round-by-round judgment aligned with her own assessment of the fight.
Mayer Expresses Disagreement With Decision
Mikaela Mayer, on the other hand, disagreed with the judges' decision. The American pugilist felt she had done enough to dethrone Jonas and take the championship belt back to the United States. However, despite her disappointment, Mayer's disagreement did not overshadow the respect both fighters held for each other's professional journey."It was hard work, exactly what I thought. Two class operators and two top-class female fighters who have been well schooled, been in the Olympic cycle, been the hard route, been in through the amateurs and that elite level," Jonas said, acknowledging the caliber of both athletes involved in the fight.
Open to a Rematch
The champion Jonas is open to the idea of a rematch with Mayer, recognizing it as a viable option. This willingness to face Mayer again suggests a commitment to proving her victory was no fluke, and an understanding of the close nature of their contest."Of course that will be an option," Jonas remarked when discussing the possibility of stepping into the ring once more with Mayer.
Future Opponents on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Jonas is considering her options before deciding on her next challenger. The boxing landscape offers several potential matchups for the champion, including bouts with Lauren Price, Jessica McCaskill, and even Katie Taylor. Each of these fighters brings their own unique skill set and reputation to the table, promising exciting clashes should any of them be the chosen opponent."We're going to sit down and see what opportunities are available and I'll choose the best one for me," Jonas stated, emphasizing her strategic approach to selecting her next fight. "If that's Mikaela Mayer, we'll choose Mikaela Mayer. If that's Lauren Price, we choose her. If that's Jessica McCaskill, we choose her. If that's Katie Taylor, we choose her."
With such a mindset, Jonas demonstrates not only her fighting spirit but also a savvy awareness of her career trajectory. Her team's careful consideration of potential opponents shows a desire to build upon her legacy while facing the best competition available.