Alycia Baumgardner Not Closed Off to Mikaela Mayer Rematch!
Has Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (13-1, 7 KOs) had a change of heart about a rematch with her nemesis, Mikaela Mayer (17-1, 5 KOs)? Baumgardner is living her best life and basking in the glow following her win over Mayer on October 15 to become unified women’s junior lightweight champion.
After that fight, Baumgardner has been dogmatic about not fighting Mayer. Instead, she has been adamant about moving on and wants to face WBA champion Hyun-Mi Choi for undisputed honors at 130.
LEAVING THE WINDOW OPEN?
But during an exclusive interview on The Last Stand Podcast, host Brian Custer asked Baumgardner if she ever envisions her and Mayer fighting again. The response from the 27-year-old gave what some may consider a surprising answer.
“I do […] it was fun to me. It was fun to fight this girl and knowing if I fight her again, it’s not going to be pretty because I know what I can do for fun. But let’s add some more seasoning on top of that to show something else.”
Both ladies came into the contest as reigning world champions. Baumgardner was the WBC champ while Mayer was the unified (IBF/WBO) champion. In the early rounds, Baumgardner got off to an excellent start. The middle rounds saw Mayer find her groove and get back into the contest. Baumgardner bit down and rallied in the championship rounds, and the judges scored the fight in her favor by a split decision.
NO QUESTION IN HER MIND
Mayer would love the opportunity to run it back. Nearly a month removed from the fight, there still is a debate among fans as to who deserved the verdict. You have a section of fans and pundits who believe Mayer came on strong and did enough to win. The Bomb has this message for those who felt she failed to do enough to win:
“Go back and watch the fight. Understand the sport; understand what you’re watching, first. Second, not everyone’s gonna like me, not everyone’s gonna agree with me. But what they do know, and what they should know, is I won that night. I will be undisputed at 130, and I cannot wait for that to happen.”
KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED
It’s well-known throughout the boxing community that Baumgardner and Mayer do not like each other. However, Baumgardner did disclose to Custer that she loved the rivalry and felt it was a great fight. Despite the animosity, you can tell there is genuine respect.
Ultimately it seems that The Bomb will entertain another go with Mayer, but on her terms. First and foremost is Choi. Then, if it makes sense, another fight with Mayer. So, for those who are clamoring for Baumgardner – Mayer II at some point, hope springs eternal.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
