For real this time, Jackie Nava v Mariana Juarez is a go!
After years of rumors and failed negotiations, the much often talked about Mexican showdown between Jackie Nava and Mariana Juarez will finally happen. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman announced the fight during a September 7 press event in Mexico. Though an exact date was not specified, the match will take place in October in Mexico.
WOMEN’S BOXING PIONEERS
Nava and Juarez are legends and trailblazers for women’s boxing south of the border. A former world champion at 118 and 122 pounds, Nava (38-4-4, 16 KOs) has not lost since 2011. At age 41, “La Princess Azteca” still exhibits sharp reflexes and is buttery smooth in the ring. Her boxing IQ is on par with any woman in the sport.
Nava did not predict the outcome but did say that it will be one of the best women’s fights in Mexico in years.
Juarez’s (55-10-4, 19 KOs) nickname may be “Barbie” but don’t be fooled by her pretty girl persona. Inside the squared circle, she is a true warrior. Her resume is stellar, capturing world titles at flyweight, junior bantamweight, and bantamweight. The former champ is looking forward to pitting her talents against Nava.
STILL SIGNIFICANT
When it comes to women’s boxing circles in Mexico, Nava-Juarez is a super-fight that has been long in the making. In 2018, attempts were made to match the ladies. However, neither camp could come to terms. They eventually agreed to fight on May 9, 2020. Unfortunately, the bout was canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Neither currently holds a world title. Some will argue that the ladies have seen their best days. Yet, this is still a contest of major significance. At 118 and 122 pounds, both are still competing at a high level. And in their home country, the weight and gravitas of the long-awaited match finally happening is sizeable for women’s boxing. As an aside, Sulaiman stated that this match is for the WBC Diamond belt adorned in pink to honor and observe breast cancer awareness.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
