The Royal Albert Hall witnessed a shift in the women’s welterweight landscape as Lauren Price delivered a dominant performance to claim unified world champion status. Against the battle-hardened Natasha Jonas, Price, the Olympic gold medalist, showcased a captivating blend of speed, agility, and ring intelligence, proving emphatically that a new force has arrived in the division.
Speed and Precision Paint a Dominant Picture
From the opening bell, Price’s strategy was crystal clear: outpace, outmanoeuvre, and outclass Jonas, putting her firmly on the defensive. In the nascent stages of the contest, Price punctuated her superior footwork with sharp, accurate punches, winning the first meaningful exchanges and establishing early dominance. While Jonas attempted to counter with focused body shots, Price adjusted her range, creating distance that neutralized any close-quarters attacks.
Unquestionable Control Reaches the Midpoint
As the fight progressed through its midway point, the narrative was firmly etched in Price’s favour. Jonas, despite her resilience, found herself chasing shadows, her hunt for a knockout proving difficult against Price’s elusiveness. Instead, Price consistently banked rounds, her rapid-fire jabs and right hands landing with regularity, frequently disrupting Jonas’s balance and rhythm.
Decisive Victory Confirmed on the Scorecards
While Jonas summoned a final surge, landing a notable left hand in the final round, Price took it well and instantly retaliated. The judges’ scorecards ultimately mirrored the story of the fight, delivering a unanimous verdict in favour of Price: 98-93, 100-90, and 98-92.
Eyes on Undisputed, A Crossroads for a Legend
In the aftermath, Price spoke of her ambitions for undisputed. “I honestly believe I can become undisputed. I want to go on and create a great legacy,” she declared, her gaze already fixed on the rematch between Mikaela Mayer and Sandy Ryan for the WBO title.
For Natasha Jonas, however, the future path is shrouded in uncertainty. Contemplating the next chapter, she voiced the possibility of retirement, expressing a longing to dedicate more time to her family. “It’s something I’ll look at when I go home,” she said, leaving the boxing world to ponder the potential departure of a true trailblazer of women’s boxing.
A Night of Transition
Lauren Price’s victory at the Royal Albert Hall was more than just a title unification; it was an emphatic breakout win she needed. She demonstrated not only her elite-level talent but strategy to dominate at the highest level. As Price sets her sights on undisputed status, Natasha Jonas faces a poignant decision about her own journey.
