Natasha Jonas set the stage for a potential high-profile clash with Lauren Price after defeating Ivana Habazin by unanimous decision, becoming the unified IBF and WBC welterweight world champion in Liverpool on Saturday night.
Both Jonas and Price showcased their talent on an event dubbed ‘Collision Course,’ with Price successfully defending her world titles against Bexcy Mateus earlier in the evening.
This fight may mark Jonas’ last appearance in her hometown of Liverpool as she contemplates retirement, with Price now poised for what could become a landmark showdown in women’s boxing history.
Returning to the ring for the first time since her victory over Mikaela Mayer in January, Jonas dominated the match, securing the win with scorecards reading 99-92, 99-91, and 100-90, thereby enhancing her record to 16-2-1.
“I think we all know what the script is. We’ll do what’s necessary to get to where we need to go,” Jonas stated after her victory.
Following the fight, Jonas and Price exchanged words in the ring, indicating their intention to face each other next year. “100 per cent. Coming into this, Collision Course, we knew what was at stake. Let’s make a great night in 2025,” Price said.
Jonas quipped in response, “Be careful what you wish for!”
The match began cautiously, with neither fighter landing substantial punches in the opening round. However, Jonas ignited the crowd in the second round with a sharp right hand that put Habazin on the defensive.
Habazin retaliated with a well-timed counter, reminding everyone that she was very much in the fight, but Jonas quickly regained control, escalating the tempo and launching powerful strikes.
In the fourth round, Jonas unleashed a brutal assault, forcing Habazin onto the ropes, although she could not secure a decisive blow. Habazin demonstrated resilience, managing to distance herself and end the round standing strong.
Jonas continued to control the pace, expertly countering Habazin’s attacks while consistently landing precise punches. With each passing round, it became clear that Jonas was firmly in command.
Although Habazin landed a clean right hand in the ninth, Jonas quickly responded with a flurry of punches and maintained her superiority through to the final round. She finished with two additional powerful left hooks.
Jonas expressed her gratitude for the support from her hometown, stating, “I didn’t think it could get any better than qualifying and winning at the Olympics, but nights like this… we are an unbelievable city. I’m so proud to represent the city.”
This victory not only solidifies Jonas’s championship status but also sets the stage for an electrifying future bout with Lauren Price, promising an exciting next chapter in women’s boxing.
