History was made today as the women’s boxing competition got underway at the ExCel, London. Great Britain’s Natasha Jonas got off to a great start beating American Quanitta Underwood 21-13.
Fighting in the lightweight category Jonas, 28, a world bronze medallist, went down 4-3 in the first bout, but went on to dominate the next three two-minute rounds.
As her confidence grew, so did her performance to the joy of the sell-out crowd. She took the second bout 4-3, and the third 6-3, and the final one 8-4 after landing a powerful body shot that saw Underwood receive a standing count.
When asked about how she felt to make history, Jonas said, “I am here to box. Anything more like making history or breaking records is an added bonus.
“I am not here to make up the numbers. I have been inspired by the men’s team. I am going to do it bout by bout and when I win a gold medal I will tell you about it at the end.”
Speaking about her performance she said, “It was disappointing in the first round. She came out very strong. I just had to box.
“The crowd got behind me and that settled me down. The crowd were amazing. It makes a change to fight with 10,000 people behind you rather than your 10 teammates. How can you not want to perform?”
Jonas will now face four time world champion Katie Taylor from Ireland on Monday at 14:30. Commenting on this tough draw Jonas said,
“It is unfortunate I am fighting the world champion this early but one of us has got to win.”
Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
