Welsh boxer Lauren Price has become Wales’ first women’s boxing world champion after defeating American Jessica McCaskill in her home country.
The bout, which took place on Saturday, May 11, at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena, Price became the IBO, WBA and Ring Magazine unified welterweight world champion.
In the ninth round, the fight was stopped with an eye injury to McCaskill after a clash of heads. The judges ruled the bout 90-82, 90-82, 90-82 in favor of Istrad Meinach.
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Price was only competing in his seventh professional match after a stellar amateur career that brought him a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago.
Price was delighted with the results. She said: “I’m at a loss for words. When I come here tonight, I’m sure the atmosphere will be lively with the Olympic gold medal win.”
“I can’t thank everyone enough. It means the world. It’s a credit to my opponent and I respect her. She’s a credit to women’s boxing and boxing in general.
“I want to build a tradition and create greatness. This is just the beginning. As you have seen Katie Taylor do for Ireland, I want to do the same for Wales.”
“My dream is to fill Principality Stadium.”
Former soccer player Price entered the ring blasting Dafydd Ivan’s ‘Yma O Hyd’ throughout the arena, followed by Hen Vlad Fi Nadau, which raised the temperature in the venue.
Price’s sights are likely to include British pair Chantel Cameron and Sandy Ryan, who will be gunning for a lucrative match.
Tyson Fury’s cousin Hughie also fought that night, defeating German Patrick Korte.