LONDON (AP) — Following the blueprint of Katie Taylor to achieve boxing success, Lauren Price dominated Natasha Jonas on Friday night at Royal Albert Hall to defend her WBA title and claim the WBC and IBF belts.
Drawing inspiration from Taylor’s widespread support in Ireland, Price expressed her own pride in representing Wales. “She’s an Olympic champion. I’m an Olympic champion. I truly believe I could fill stadiums. That’s the dream I’m pursuing,” Price stated.
In a decisive victory over the 40-year-old Jonas lasting 10 rounds, Price showcased her speed and skill, securing a unanimous decision to extend her record to 9-0.
Taylor, the reigning undisputed super lightweight champion, has been a key figure in memorable women’s fights. She is scheduled to fight Amanda Serrano for the third time on July 11 at Madison Square Garden.
Eager to emulate Taylor’s success, Price, aged 30, who clinched a gold medal for Britain at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, aims to become the undisputed champion by adding the WBO belt to her collection, currently held by Mikaela Mayer. Mayer will face English boxer Sandy Ryan on March 29 in Las Vegas.
Expressing her intent to face Price after her upcoming fight, Mayer anticipates a potential showdown later in the year. Boxxer promoter Ben Shalom revealed plans for Price and himself to attend the Las Vegas bout to explore the possibility of a Price vs. Mayer matchup.
Price, a former captain of the Wales under-19 women’s soccer team, envisions a future bout at Cardiff City Stadium. “Having played football there, I would love to box there one day,” she shared.
___
AP boxing: https://apnews.com/boxing
