(OCT 8) Cecilia Braekhus has long been a defining figure in women’s boxing, earning a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. With her recent victory over Ema Kozin, where she claimed the WBC and WBO super welterweight titles, she concluded her career on a high note. This achievement, however, came with a bittersweet undertone, as WBAN would have liked to have seen several key matchups that never materialized.
At 44 years old, Braekhus showcased why she earned the title of the ‘First Lady’ of boxing in her final bout held in Lillestrøm. Against Ema Kozin, Braekhus demonstrated her talent and ability in the sport. She defeated the much younger boxer, with final scores of 92-98, 94-96, and 93-97.
“I’m so happy,” she said, expressing gratitude to the boxing community worldwide for supporting her through her career. Her retirement announcement prior to this fight added an extra layer of significance to the victory, making it a poignant moment for her.
Despite her successful exit from the sport—WBAN and boxing fans are left pondering the matchups that could have shaped Braekhus’s legacy even further.
One bout that WBAN would have liked to have seen is Braekhus fighting “Amazing” Layla McCarter, an eight-time world champion whose skill set would have made for great matchup in the sport.
Another matchup missing from Braekhus’s record is a rematch against Kali “KO” Reis. Their controversial first bout saw Reis knock Braekhus down in the seventh round and many would have liked to have seen those two in another exciting matchup.
Additionally, there was Holly Holm, a name that resonates deeply in both boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA). At one point, a fight between Braekhus and Holm was considered the biggest potential bout on the horizon. However, as Holm transitioned to competing in UFC, that dream matchup slipped away.
As Braekhus steps away from the ring, her legacy remains undeniable. With an impressive run as an undefeated champion for over ten years and multiple titles across weight divisions, her contributions to women’s boxing are monumental.
Cecilia Braekhus may be hanging up her gloves, but her impact on boxing is undeniable. Congratulations Cecilia, on your long-lasting and history-making career in the sport of Women’s Boxing.
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