Harper beats Dixon to become three-weight champion

Terri Harper Defeats Rhiannon Dixon to Become Three-Weight World Champion

Terri Harper reignited her boxing career by outpointing fellow Briton, Rhiannon Dixon, in a thrilling match in Sheffield to claim the WBO lightweight crown, making her a three-weight world champion.

Harper’s Dominance in Sheffield

In a must-win fight, the 27-year-old Harper showcased her control of distance and precise counter-punching, ultimately securing a unanimous decision victory with scores of 97-93, 97-93, and 96-94 at the Canon Medical Arena. Despite Dixon, 29, briefly hurting Harper in the sixth round, the Doncaster fighter proved too dominant throughout the contest.

Harper, already a light-middleweight and former super-featherweight champion, expressed her satisfaction: “That’s the best one of my career. I’ve become a new fighter mentally and physically.” She acknowledged a brief challenging moment in the fight but managed to recover quickly.

Dixon’s First Title Defence Ends in Defeat

This bout marked the first defence of the title Dixon won in April, and despite her efforts, the previously unbeaten fighter couldn’t maintain control against Harper. Dixon’s frustration was evident, as she struggled to land her jab effectively.

Harper’s Experience Shines Through

Having faced high-caliber opponents like Natasha Jonas, Alycia Baumgardner, and Cecilia Braekhus, Harper relied on her experience to weather Dixon’s sixth-round assault and regain control. Harper’s heavy punches in the final rounds, especially as blood poured from Dixon’s nose, sealed the deal.

The Challenge of Promoting Female Boxing

Despite the high stakes, fewer than 2,000 fans were present to witness this all-British world title fight, highlighting the ongoing challenges of promoting female boxing. However, Harper’s historic victory might signal a shift. Promoter Eddie Hearn hinted at a potential unification fight between Harper and Argentina’s IBF champion, Beatriz Ferreira, as the next step.

Though Dixon’s reign as champion was short-lived, her journey from white-collar boxing to professional ranks, while balancing a career as a pharmacist, stands as a testament to her resilience.