WBAN is proud to name New Zealand’s Lani Daniels as our May 2026 Fighter of the Month! Lani made history on the MVPW card at Madison Square Garden, securing a massive stoppage win over Shadasia Green to become a three-division World Champion. But it’s what happened after the bell that showed the world who Lani really is. While Green was being hospitalized for injuries, Lani put her celebrations on hold. Her focus wasn’t on the belts, but on the safety and recovery of her opponent.
Why we ❤️ Lani:
✨ Pure Class: No trash talk, no drama—just respect for her fellow athletes.
✨ Role Model: A mental health nurse by trade, she brings healing and heart to the sport.
✨ History Maker: From Pipiwai to the world stage, she represents NZ and women’s boxing with incredible dignity.
WBAN appreciates a champion who lifts others up while reaching the top. Congratulations, Lani—you are a true credit to the sport!
Press release (excerpt) that went out on May 1, 2026:
WBAN is proud to announce New Zealand’s very own Lani Daniels as the premier choice for WBAN’s May 2026 Fighter of the Month. The honor follows her recent fight on the recent Most Valuable Promotions Women’s card at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden, in New York. Entering the ring as a determined underdog, Daniels delivered a solid performance against defending champion Shadasia Green. Daniels pressured her opponent aggressively in the later rounds, culminating in a flurry of combinations that forced a referee stoppage at 0:32 of the ninth round. With this upset, Daniels captured the IBF, WBO, and Ring Magazine super middleweight world titles. While Daniels had every reason to celebrate her crowning achievement, her immediate reaction highlighted her extraordinary character. Exhibiting deep humility and genuine concern, Daniels directed all focus toward Green’s health.
WBAN deeply appreciates and celebrates a sincere boxer like Daniels. In an era where combat sports are sometimes dominated by negative trash talk, Daniels is a refreshing modern boxer in today’s world. WBAN would like to congratulates Daniels, saying, “She fights with the heart of a lion inside the ropes and displays the grace of a true diplomat outside of them. WBAN warmly congratulates Lani on this tremendous championship victory and thanks her for representing the sport with such dignity and honor.”
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