Holly Holm strove to claim her inaugural boxing world title in more than ten years tonight but fell short, losing to WBA lightweight champion Stephanie Han via technical decision.
The match was halted in the seventh round due to Han (12-0, 3 KO) sustaining a cut from an accidental head clash. The cut might not have appeared severe, but that was up to the doctor’s judgment, and the doctor opted to stop the bout, with some of it “not looking that severe” possibly being due to prompt and effective work by Han’s team once they had a chance to address it after the fight was halted.
Holm, now 44, falls to 34-3-3 (9 KO) in her boxing career. This was only her second match since 2013, during which she focused on a mixed martial arts career that saw her achieve considerable success in the UFC.
The judges officially scored the bout 68-65, 69-65, and 69-64, adjudging seven of the twelve scheduled rounds.
What Stephanie Han stated post-fight
“Such incidents occur in boxing. I’m incredibly pleased, you can’t imagine. It’s not how I envisioned it, but a victory is a victory. I want to appreciate you, Holly. You’re a true icon, and if you’re open to a rematch, let’s make it happen in El Paso or Albuquerque. I would be thrilled to fight you again. I hold nothing but respect for you. You’re truly inspirational, and I’ve always admired you. Thank you.”
On Holm: “Look at her. She’s an incredible athlete, truly exceptional. She has no reason to feel ashamed; she is achieving things that many can only dream of. I have immense respect for Holly Holm. All the respect.”
What Holly Holm expressed post-fight
“Not being able to conclude it was the hardest aspect. She threw a lot of punches, and I was hoping to take control in the later rounds, but that’s not feasible when unexpected things happen. I didn’t wish for it to conclude this way.”
On a potential rematch: “Definitely. No one desires for a fight to end in that fashion. I certainly don’t.”
Do you believe Holly Holm should have a rematch with Stephanie Han and another opportunity at the WBA title?
