All-Star Women's Boxing Lineup Aims to Knock Out Pay Disparity in Historic WBC Event
Jo-Carolyn Goode | 8/12/2024, 4:58 p.m.
In a groundbreaking showcase of female athleticism, the World Boxing Council (WBC) is set to present an all-women’s boxing event on September 27 at the Lux Stage at Trilith Studios, Atlanta. This historic event, titled “Hit Like a Girl, Fight Like a Champion,” will feature the highly anticipated WBC Super Featherweight Championship, where reigning champion Alycia Baumgardner will defend her title against Belgium's seasoned fighter, Delfine Persoon.
Baumgardner, an icon in women’s boxing, views this event as more than just another fight—it’s a movement. “This fight is more than just a return to the ring for me; it’s a statement,” Baumgardner asserted. “Headlining an all-women’s sanctioned card is an honor, and I’m ready to show the world the strength, resilience, and skill that women in boxing bring to the sport.”
The event sets a new precedent with the largest purse bid in WBC history for a female fight, totaling $500,000. The Lux Stage at Trilith Studios, known for its cutting-edge immersive environments, offers an innovative and dynamic backdrop, enhancing the grandeur of this historic bout.
This monumental event is the result of a collaboration between Global Combat Collective, Baumgardner Promotions, BrinxTV, and Fubo Sports. In a significant step towards democratizing access to sports, the event will be broadcast for free, allowing a global audience to witness this momentous occasion.
Nelson Lopez Jr., Co-Founder and CEO of Global Combat Collective, heralds this event as a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in sports. “For far too long, women in sports have been overlooked, underpaid, and marginalized,” Lopez emphasized. “Despite their incredible achievements, the lack of global recognition and equal pay is appalling. Our goal at GCC is to change this narrative, and on September 27, we are taking a significant step in that direction with an all-star women’s lineup that will draw global attention.”
Baumgardner, the undisputed female super featherweight champion, is not only focused on defending her title but also on advocating for the rights of female athletes worldwide. “Equal pay in sports is not just a matter of fairness; it’s a statement that women’s contributions are valued and essential, paving the way for a more inclusive and just society,” she stated passionately.
Lopez Jr. also acknowledged the vital contributions of his co-founders—President Joshua Chasse, Vice President Sergio Rodriguez, and Chief Operations Officer Victor Herrera—as well as the unwavering support from BrinxTV. “Brinx believed in our mission to highlight women’s sports,” Lopez Jr. noted. “With their partnership, we will bend the universe.”
About Alycia Baumgardner
Alycia "The Bomb" Baumgardner (15-1, 7 KOs), a super featherweight champion from Freemont, Ohio, began her professional boxing career in 2017. She has held the WBC and IBO super featherweight titles since November 2021, and added the WBO, IBF, and The Ring titles in 2022. On February 4, 2023, she became the undisputed female super featherweight champion of the world. Baumgardner is currently signed to Matchroom Boxing.
About Nelson Lopez Jr.
Nelson Lopez Jr., Co-Founder and CEO of Global Combat Collective, is a respected figure in the boxing world, known for his extensive experience as a manager, promoter, and matchmaker. With over two decades in the industry, Lopez has been instrumental in organizing some of the most significant fights worldwide, working alongside top promoters to bring the best talent to the ring.
For more information, visit https://globalcombatcollective.com.