(MAY 18) In a night of boxing at the Copper Box Arena, located within the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Hackney Wick, Shannon Ryan won by points over Fara El Bousairi. The 28-year-old from Watford winning the eight-round bout by points with the final score of 77-74.
The bout was a reflection of Ryan’s journey from a successful kickboxer and taekwondo competitor to her boxing career in women’s boxing. With her extensive background in combat sports, including being part of the Team GB tae-kwon-do squad, Ryan transitioned to boxing in 2016. Since then, she has established herself in the ring, earning accolades such as the 2018 Alliance Boxing Champion and the 2019 Women’s Winter Box Cup.
Despite Ryan going down in the third round according to news sources—a moment that undoubtedly tested her resolve—Ryan rebounded.
In March 2023, Ryan signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s renowned Matchroom Boxing, marking a pivotal moment in her professional career. Scheduled to face Commonwealth female super-flyweight champion Emma Dolan in early 2024, Ryan saw the stakes rise significantly. The anticipated bout, which would have also contested the inaugural British female super-flyweight crown, was called off due to Dolan’s illness.
In her place, unbeaten Jasmina Zapotoczna stepped in, and Ryan seized this opportunity, claiming her first professional title through a unanimous decision win. [Fight video with Emma in 2024].
Photo: Emma Dolan vs. Shannon Ryan
Ryan’s bout with Dolan eventually took place in June 2024, resulting in a close split decision loss for Ryan.
With Ryan’s recent victory behind her and the lessons learned from past bouts, Ryan is poised for even greater challenges ahead. Whether it’s reclaiming titles or climbing the ranks further in women’s boxing, her trajectory promises excitement.
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