In the realm of boxing, a sport traditionally associated with male dominance, Alycia Baumgardner stands out as a groundbreaking force, defying all gender barriers and garnering the attention of many. As the undisputed super Featherweight champion, her recent revelation has put boxing fans on watch. With an impressive record of 14 wins and only 1 defeat, Baumgardner's accomplishments speak volumes. Despite her undeniable success, many wouldn't consider her a competitive opponent to her male counterparts, but she may be proving her doubters wrong.
At 29 years old, Baumgardner has unveiled a surprising aspect of her training regimen—frequently stepping into the ring with male boxers. This revelation is bound to elicit astonishment, but there's more to the story. Baumgardner boldly asserts that during these sparring sessions, she not only holds her ground but often takes down her male opponents and leaves no room for mercy.
Boxers such as Baumgardner play a crucial role in advocating for female boxing, striving to secure the recognition and admiration it rightfully deserves. By fearlessly entering the ring with male boxers, she dismantles the prevailing prejudice that women are incapable of competing with men in sports. During an interview with @FunkyFriday, she confidently proclaims, “I am beating up boys and I’m like yea I belong here. I spar guys all the time.”
Upon hearing this, the interviewer found it difficult to believe and sought further clarification. Curiously, he inquired whether the male boxers actually landed punches on Baumgardner during their sparring sessions. Her response was nothing short of astounding. With conviction, she declared, “They better because I am hitting, hitting. That’s the difference I want you to respect me when I’m the ring because I don’t hit soft. I am gonna hit you so I need to be the best I can be. I need you to put that pressure on me and I am gonna apply that pressure to.”
If there were ever to be a co-ed face-off, it's pretty safe to say that Baumgardner would be a strong representative on behalf of women's boxing. Her consistent efforts to challenge gender stereotypes, exceptional track record, and remarkable performance have firmly established her as one of the top female fighters in the boxing realm.
